How I found successful work/study balance

It’s a topic that many people struggle with. Working a long day at work and then finding the time, motivation and energy to put your head down and study. By the end of this blog, you will hopefully have a better understanding on how to balance the two giants that are work and study, and gain some techniques to help you get the most out of your time.

Strategy

Develop a plan of attack! Determine how many hours a week you will need to meet your study criteria as well as a timeline of when your course will be completed. This way you will be able to establish how many hours a week you have available for work, and what days you can commit to working. An important factor to consider is how you best study. Is it in the morning, or at night time? Do you prefer short amounts each day or long periods over one day? This is vital when planning out your time so you can be as efficient as possible.

Work Place Flexibility

Make use of workplace flexibility. Many Australians have taken up flexible working arrangements. In contrast to popular belief it is not just shortening how many hours you are working. Flexible work arrangements can involve altering your work place location or even your work schedule to include split shifts. Flexible working arrangements can greatly benefit your study, especially if you are trying to attend onsite study sessions. It can also provide additional time for you to ensure you meet your course requirements in a timely manner. To find out more about how to apply or if you are eligible for work place flexibility just click here

Time Management

Schedule accordingly. If you know exams are coming up or a lot of assignments are going to be due at a particular time of the year, book some time off work to help compensate for the increased study load. You can always revert back to higher work levels when your study load eases off. We all have bills to pay after all.

Efficiency

Study smarter, not harder. Review your notes or listen to a lecture on your commute to work. Use your work breaks to look over cue cards for your next presentation. Efficient use of your time will free up your evenings to recharge the batteries and keep that work life balance that is so important from a psychological and physical point of view.

Watch out for traps

Avoid the time wasters. Cut travel time by studying close to your work or home. You can even watch seminars and lectures from the comfort of your home. Learn to say no to common distractions such as social media, video games and TV. Instead, use them as a reward for yourself once you have completed your required work or study for the day. These strategies can save you hours throughout the duration of your course.

Just do it!

Remember why you are doing it! Keep the bigger picture in mind. You are studying to get to that new job, grow your skill set or for personal development.

“You miss 100% of the shots you do not take” – Michael Jordan

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Ben Niejalke – Recruitment Consultant