When you’re already working, the idea of going back to college or university can seem very daunting. Of course, you’re going to wonder whether you can handle studying and working at the same time. It is possible, although it will require plenty of commitment and lots of planning. A certain level of organization is also required. You also need to be prepared to make some sacrifices, but the price is going to be worth it. Here are some tips to help you succeed.
Learn to Prioritize and Manage Your Time
It’s easy to be organized if you’ve got a deadline to meet, but being organized continuously can have huge benefits. Make organizing your time part of your daily routine, and your time management problems will disappear. Make an effort to go home after work as soon as possible and limit your leisure activities.
Good Planning
Good time management includes daily, weekly, and monthly planning. Before signing up for a course, make yourself aware of the curriculum and how much time is required for studying. Your studies should come first, ahead of a Saturday night out with friends. However, if you plan your time efficiently, you’ll be able to study on weekdays, leaving your weekends free for some fun.
Remember to Take a Break
You might not think you’ve got much time for taking a break, which makes it all the more important to take one. Take time out to relax, even if it’s only half an hour every day. Relaxing and getting out of your daily routine has a positive effect on your energy and overall efficiency.
Use Your Free Time Productively
Admittedly, you’re not going to have as much free time as you’d like. What’s important is to use what little you do have productively. Use a few minutes of your lunch break to study. Read a book on the way to work if you commute. Using your free time constructively helps you balance your day job and coursework effectively.
Another good use of your free time is to work on your resume. Writing a cover letter is also something that’s going to prove very useful in the future. There’s plenty of help online if you don’t know where to start, for example, a company like My Perfect CV.
Look After Yourself
You’re going to find yourself feeling stressed out from time to time; it’s only natural. You’ve got a heavy workload, and you’re studying at the same time. Learn how to handle your stress in a positive way. Physical exercise is a very effective stress reliever, so go to the gym, take a walk or go swimming. Learn how to relax more and find something to do that you enjoy. Listening to music, having a massage, visiting a salon are all things you can do to reduce stress.
Make Use of Technology
Technology can be used to your advantage when you’re studying. There is a range of different programs available that can help with your study. Use apps to keep yourself organized and help you relax.
One last tip is to make sure you get enough sleep. Without it, you’ll quickly burn out and be no use to anyone. Find a way of studying that works for you. For example, rather than burning the midnight oil, get up at 5am and study for an hour and then go back to bed for some more sleep.
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