by Yolanda Graham
Continuing your education or upskilling has numerous benefits.
When you learn something new for your job, your job confidence increases, you'll become more productive, and you'll become more valuable to your employers.
However, many people hesitate when it comes to deciding to continue their education. They're either reluctant to give up any free time that they have, or already feel as if life is too busy.
Juggling studies, work, and family can be a challenge, but there are ways to maintain balance. Here are some ideas that may help:
1. Pick a learning mode that suits you
Choosing a learning mode depends on what you prefer. Some want to attend classes, while others are happy with courses condusted entirely online. Online courses offer more flexibility because all materials and videos are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. There's no chance for you to miss a class or lose your notes, and you can slot study in between busy times. But if you prefer some face-to-face time, there are providers that hold weekday and weekend classes, and adjust your lifestyle accordingly.
2. Plan and stick to a routine
Study in the morning and go to bed early, or hit the e-books after work? Build a schedule that works for you and stick to the routine.
3. Prioritise
If you want to avoid overwhelming yourself, then prioritise. You may need to miss a few parties and outings, but it's a small sacrifice compared to the great reward at the end. Be realistic about what you can and cannot do in the coming months and remember to keep your eye on the goal.
4. Avoid distractions
Make the most of your study time by avoiding distractions. That episode of Lip Sync Battle in the background is going to make you have to read the same sentence three times before you understand anything. And you know that five minutes on Facebook is going to turn into an hour. Avoid distractions and you’ll be able to focus and retain information more effectively.
5. Don't forget slack time!
All work and no play isn't good for the soul, and you don't want to burn out before you complete your studies. Take regular breaks, spend some time with your favourite people and set aside time doing what you enjoy. Studying part-time requires some discipline but you shouldn’t have to give up all forms of fun.
6. Get support
Tell your family, friends, and employer about your plans to study part time. You might be surprised how supportive they can be when you share your goals. Close friends and relatives may be able to pitch in your busiest times, and words of encouragement can keep you going until you reach your destination.
7. Work smart
We know that studying gives you an advantage at work, but work also gives you a major advantage while studying. You’ll probably find some genius ways to solve workplace challenges if you use real-life work situations as part of your studies.
8. Celebrate successes
Don’t forget to reward yourself when you’ve done well. Treat yourself to a nice dinner, go for a massage, or go for a little holiday if you can. Celebrating successes is important to balance out the hard work you’re putting into your studies on top of work and family time.
Original source: JobStreet
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