Source: durangoschools.com
If you choose to or have to work while attending school, you might feel that you’re overbooked and stressed. It’s easy to put most of your efforts into your job since you’re getting paid there, but this may mean that you’re not placing enough of your attention on your education. You may be the exact opposite and focus all your efforts on school, which may cause you to lose your job. However, you can do both well and with minimal stress by using a few simple tips:
1. Try Online School
If you’re not already scheduled for classes in a traditional setting, try applying for online learning opportunities. Many top-named schools offer both online and traditional classes. Sometimes, the program may require a combination of both, but this still allows you to have a flexible schedule.
2. Use Break Times Wisely
While trying to study when you’re suppose to be doing your job is out of the question because it can cost you your job, your break time is your time to do as you please. Anytime you get a break, grab your books or laptop and start studying or completing assignments. You would be surprised how much you can get done on your 15-minute and 30-minute breaks.
3. Schedule
If you just “wing it,” you may not be using all the small windows of opportunity that you have to your advantage. This is why it’s very important when you’re juggling work and school to schedule your time and make sure that you stick to the schedule.
4. Take Care of Yourself
You must take care of yourself by eating properly and sleeping an adequate amount. By not sleeping or skipping meal times to study, you’ll lack the necessary nutrients and energy to perform at your best, both at work and during school. Additionally, you should take at least 15 minutes out of each day to relax, whether you take a bath, watch TV or just zone out.
5. Take Advantage of Your Resources
Your cell phone and laptop can connect you to resources to help you succeed. Learn tips to help you make the most of your study time like using mnemonic devices. Here at Course Hero, we offer numerous other study resources that will help you. Use the to-do list feature and calendar on your phone to assist you with scheduling and being organized. The helpful alarms that go off when you need to do something can be a lifesaver at helping you to remember to complete assignments.
6. Limit Extracurricular Activities and Unnecessary Commitments
You might feel like you’re missing out by not participating on the volleyball team, but the volleyball team will take time away from both your work and your education. You’re already spread thin by working and going to school at the same time, so don’t overstretch yourself.
In addition, you have to learn to say “no” to volunteering your time and taking on commitments that you necessarily don’t have to. For instance, you may be asked to volunteer at a school fundraiser, and although it may be important for the school, it’s not something that you must do, and this is one time in your life that you need to be a little selfish in order to succeed.