With the back to school season in full swing, everyone is adapting to new habits. Whether it be new schedules, new classes and new studying methods, everyone has to find the sweet spot that works well for them. Juggling primary responsibilities like raising a family, having a full-time job, or managing hobbies can be challenging. Taking a few classes to upskill yourself in your respective profession can give your family a legacy of abundance, which is a gift that requires just a few tweaks to your schedule.
Upskilling is the key to setting yourself apart in your industry, honoring your talents and down the line improving your family’s circumstances. Creating a strategic plan to balance your work and personal life can be the key to your success.
Balancing work, family and classes has been done successfully for decades. New upskillers benefit from online learning with advanced learning platforms, faster internet speed and in-demand courses with leaders in the tech field.
Check out these 9 hacks for studying while balancing work and family obligations:
1. Have a strategy: Life happens when you least expect it, so a strategy helps you plan for the future while taking care of the present. Fleshing out the details for you and your family takes a little time.
Start with the end goal in mind. This will help you think of all your goals personally and professionally and prioritize how you’ll get there. Once determined, review which classes are available that fit into your schedule. Set yourself up for success by creating a comfortable study space and buying anything you need, like a laptop or a desk. Consider the hours you can reasonably study and ask for support during those times.
2. Nurture a support network: Support is crucial to success when upskilling. Employers, spouses, friends and extended family should be backing you 100 percent. Ask your coworkers if they can help you out. This could include using breaks or lunch to study instead of engaging in water cooler talk. Many will be happy to help you achieve your goals as long as you communicate clearly.
Some may not be willing to shoulder any extra weight, and that’s okay. You can always find pockets of time. This could mean listening to class lectures or supplemental materials on your commute or while completing household chores.
Single parents may have to look for a reliable babysitter or care center. Also, consider paying older children to help with younger siblings.
3. Allow for emergencies: No one expects the Spanish Inquisition. Children pick up bugs at school, a coworker may have to take a leave of absence, or you may simply just need a day to recharge. These all can happen and they don’t need to be detrimental to your studies.
Track every hour of your schedule, including due dates, tests and presentations. Work ahead as much as possible to create a buffer against the unexpected obstacles.
4. Harness your time: It is so easy to fall down the rabbit hole of social media. Turn off your phone and block out the world. Factor in time to relax to sharpen the ax and fully indulge in all your favorite activities during your scheduled time off.
Procrastinating kills more dreams than failure ever has. Prioritize your rest so you can be productive. You are human and need to connect with family and yourself.
5. Cut back on unnecessary activities: You can’t do everything and some areas of your life may need to go on the chopping block. Friends and family who want too much of your time may need to find someone else. Get-togethers might need to be missed. Game night may need to be hosted by someone else.
Dropping off for a bit could be a challenge. However, you will have plenty of time to enjoy others’ company and gatherings when you achieve your goals.
6. Find a study group: Plenty of parents in your area are looking for a support group. Look for forums hosted by studying and working parents. Your kids might be able to play together while you study. You may take turns hosting the group as demand calls for it.
Ask friends if they know anyone in the same boat. Look into groups on Facebook, Meetup or Reddit.
7. Carve out time for your family: Missing out on family time in order to study is only a short-term solution. They could inspire you to greatness. Take them to the park or the beach to make new memories and enjoy each other’s company. Your spouse will also appreciate some time together.
8. Master the art of confidence: Make a list of all of your accomplishments and give yourself some credit for what you’ve already achieved. It could be excellent parenting or getting promoted. You can achieve anything you put your mind to. Consider all the steps you have taken toward your goals.
Education can help you rise in the ranks and give you the confidence to work harder.
9. Focus on one challenge at a time: The demands of classes, your job and family will be more straightforward when you have the proper support. Every week brings you closer to achieving your goals. Small victories add up to a big win.
When you’re ready to create a brighter future via upskilling in digital skills, check out ThriveDX. You can achieve anything you put your mind to with the right strategy that prioritizes connection
