Mining is easier to manage when every trip has a clear reason and enough inventory space to make the trip worthwhile.
Choose whether the trip is for depth or materials
A depth push and a resource run are different jobs. Pick one primary goal before entering.
Bring enough food to support the plan
Food should extend the trip enough to make preparation worthwhile without filling inventory with unnecessary extras.
Protect inventory space
Leave room for ore, stone and useful finds so the trip does not become a discard problem.
Turn mining rewards into upgrades
Use the haul to improve tools, infrastructure or future efficiency before the next run.