Do you work a full-time job and attend school at least part-time? If so, you know the true meaning of the word juggling. It can be one of life’s toughest challenges to not only hold down a job but attend college and pay for tuition simultaneously. What’s the secret of pulling off this seemingly impossible feat? No technique works perfectly. Instead, people who successfully navigate the dual lifestyle of school and work have multiple tools in their arsenal. Perhaps the most common one is a detailed schedule. It’s nearly impossible to be a worker-student without following a well-planned daily routine.
Finding scholarship money is another secret part of the puzzle. Those who are wise enough to uncover financial resources like scholarships can rest that much easier, knowing that some or all tuition bills are already paid. That means less pressure, less need to take on overtime at work, and more restful nights. Finally, it’s imperative to create a totally private study and work space in your home. This is doubly true if you have children. Likewise, let family and friends know your work and study schedules so they’ll avoid interrupting. Learning the art of positive thinking and meditation can go a long way toward keeping a healthy attitude and a rested mind. Here’s how to get started.
Make a Detailed Schedule
Even professional juggler’s practice. You should make a detailed, hour-by-hour plan for each day of the week. Don’t forget to put a few free hours in each seven-day cycle and at least two free days in every month. These small breaks do a good job of helping prevent burnout and stress. Finally, schedule sleep as if it’s a sacred appointment because it is. Restful sleep is essential for anyone on a tight, busy schedule of school and work.
Find Scholarship Money
To relieve financial pressure and the mental strain that goes with it, use a free online search and apply platform for college scholarships. It’s the most efficient way to identify relevant opportunities and apply for them at the same time. You’ll be surprised by how many unknown scholarship programs out there pertain to your field of study and subject major. Using a platform gives you the unique advantage of focusing only on the scholarships that pertain to your situation. Juggling a job and academic career can be massively stressful. Finding scholarship money goes a long way toward easing your mental state and freeing up your bank account.
Create a Private Space at Home
Whether you have children, a spouse, or a roommate, make sure you have a dedicated area in your home where you can go to do class work or job-related tasks. Let people know when you are in the office. Consider making a ‘Do Not Disturb’ sign for the door and be diligent about enforcing the rule.
Practice Positive Thinking
All busy people can benefit from a daily session of meditation or positive thinking. Take five minutes to sit comfortably and quietly at the beginning and end of each day, allowing your thoughts to subside slowly. These mini sessions do a lot for your mental health, and can help you find your passion, you’ll soon look forward to them, even after your schedule eases up.
