Tips for untangling similar-sounding vocabulary?

Hi friends! I’ve been struggling with those pesky words that sound almost the same. The other day, I tried to talk about finishing a half-written letter but accidentally used a word for a comfortable lifestyle! I felt so silly. I usually try to imagine a specific person, like a merchant, to anchor my business terms. Does anyone else use mini-stories to keep things straight? I'd love to hear your creative methods!