7 ways to ease working and studying together
Juggling a part-time job with a course is not just challenging but also deeply satisfying. A great thing about doing this is that it not only earns you money but also teaches you new things about yourself. However, this is a balancing act which can take a toll on your body and your schedule and can prevent you from doing either/both of them well. Whether you work because you need to or because you want to, follow the advice below to make sure you succeed at both work and education:
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Have a clear objective
Now that you have decided to take up the balancing act, set a clear objective. Establish a realistic career goal, draw out your expectations and what you plan to achieve both from your academics and your job. This should hopefully help you level out your priorities.
Commit to your academics first
It is tempting for you to be working those extra hours for cash. However, don’t forget that your first commitment is towards your education. Have a regular study schedule. Get into a habit of studying one or two hours daily.
Your work should be flexible
Try to find an employer who is flexible and can accommodate changes in your work schedule. You need to have those extra holidays for your exams, and also flexibility when it comes to important assignments and other academic activities. An understanding employer is a support system for you to rely on, and they can either make or break you.
Take time out to relax
Schedule some time for leisure, too. Even though there might be days where you feel you cannot afford to take a break, make time to unplug. This not only refreshes your system but also makes you more productive and creative. You can also plan social activities with friends. The more physically demanding it is, the better. Here are some ideas for a fun break:
- Work for an average of 50 minutes, and take small breaks of about 10 to 15 minutes while you work or study. Try to take a nap or do some exercise on your seat.
- Plan a trip to a nearby hill station or the local park for a quick game. Not only does this help you de-stress, it also gives you something fun to looking forward to.
- Plan an activity that you can do on your own, like cooking, art, reading or a bike trip outdoors.
Exercise
Your body needs the grease to keep it running. Exercise helps you stay fresh and focused all day long. Take time out every day for a 30-minute cardio session or a run. Also, if you don’t know when to do this, wake up early and start your day with it. Stick to it and it might turn into one of the things you look forward to everyday.
Bring school to work and work to school
Whenever possible, use your work knowledge in your academics and assignments. It will help you memorise pointers easily and may be earn you a better grade.
Get plenty of rest
If is often tempting to stay up late and finish off assignments or prepare for exams. But the extra stress can take its toll. So, sleep right. If you do end up working late and sleeping less, make sure you make up for it over weekends.
Remember your education is temporary, but it will guarantee you a permanent career objective and that your part time job will teach you more about yourself and lead you to other career options you can explore. Let both of these inspire you to restructure your time, tackle new challenges and remain devout to your final goal.
