I have noticed that nowadays many people are struggling with the same issue that I have, studying and working at the same time. How to combine these things? I wanted to share some thoughts and tips that I have found useful in my situation, hope I can help someone or at least share some support in this subject!
I started my studies in January 2021, and the first semester I was working on weekends. Getting used to studying again took some time, because I took a couple gap years before that. I found that a little stressfull, so when autumn came I decided to take a study leave. Now I have have decided to try to combining work and school again, when I got a job in my own field in tourism.
How to make sure you get everything done?
- Use calendar
I prefer an old fashioned calendar, where I can write down all my lectures, deadlines and work schelude. Also i mark down the time I will use to do assignments. Don’t forget to write down your free time, that is very important!
- A couple of days off a week
I try to schelude everything the way that I have time to really relax and recover. Make time for your hobbies, to see your friends or just resting.
- Communication with the employer
I made a deal with my employer, that I let them know my school schelude before hand, so they can try to give me shifts outside of school time. Because I’m in the distance learning programme, the lectures can be anytime of the day. With enough communication, it’s all easier.
How to avoid stress?
- Do what you love, find a new hobby
I have noticed that doing something that I really like, helps me recover and keeps me better focused on lectures. At the moment I’m really enjoying knitting and mountain biking. Sometimes when I’m listening a Zoom lesson, I’m knitting at the same time because it keeps me focused. On my free time I love to go biking in the woods, because it really keeps your mind in just staying on the little path, and then I have no time to think anything else. It’s also a good exercise.
- Remember to take enough breaks
While I’m doing some assignments, I sometimes decide something like “Now I’m going to study 30 minutes, and after that I can take a 15 minute break.” Or if I have a very stressful day going on, I might do 15 minutes studying, and 15 minutes break.
- Rest is key to everything
Bet on good night’s sleep.
- Stretching and breathing exercises
Getting a good night’s sleep is easier said than done after a stressful and busy day. Work and school stuff is just running trough your mind, and it might be hard to calm down. I personally find it helpful sometimes to stretch or do breathing exercises before going to bed.
These are some things I’m doing or keeping on mind while combining school and work. If you are interested on getting more tips on this subject, you can find many great articles and blogposts on Google.