A few Illustrations I did in between work. Usually when I sketch for fun, I don't plan the whole illustration but start with just one sketch and then build the rest of the characters and environment around it.
I don't know if its the better way but what I have realized is that once I see some subject on the paper I can visualize more things faster and better. Hence even when I am drawing my character I start with the face first. Once I see the personality I can draw the suitable body and gesture around it. Not a hard n fast rule but most of the time it works! :)