Discover the essential strategies for maintaining a healthy work-life balance while pursuing a master's degree in the second part of our series.
A focus on time management and wellbeing
Welcome back! In the first post of this 2-part series, we covered the range of options available for financing your master’s degree, and how it will expand your career horizons.
In this post, we’ll deep-dive into what is arguably the most important consideration: how to look after yourself and maintain a healthy balance between your work, personal life and studies.
How to manage your work-life balance while studying
Even without adding study into the equation, keeping a healthy work-life balance can often feel like a juggling act. We’ll keep it frank – factoring in your studies will require self-discipline, diligence, and good organisation – but with the right approach, you can achieve this without feeling overwhelmed.
Choose distance learning
Our first bit of practical advice is startlingly simple – opt to study online. With distance learning courses, you can study at your own pace, from an environment that is comfortable for you. This could be your home, your local library, or even your office.
You can access your virtual learning environment online anytime, and from any device – so no matter what time you want to read your learning resources or submit your project, you can do it. With online study, you also don’t have to worry about moving to where your university is based, or disrupting your daily schedule with lectures and seminars.
Talk to your employer
Another way to manage the pressure of studying is by having a conversation about it with your line manager, and seeing how your workplace could help. For example, they may be able to negotiate reduced working hours or an adjusted schedule, so you can allocate set periods of time to your studies.
In some cases, your employer may be able to incorporate study periods directly into your work schedule. One common way of doing this is through self-development days. While your workplace may not offer accommodations for study, there is no harm in raising the topic.
Reach out to friends
While it may feel awkward to reach out for help, never underestimate the power of your support network. Whether it’s childcare, day-to-day chores or running errands, having your friends or loved-ones help with these responsibilities can take an enormous weight off your shoulders, leaving you with the time and energy you need to focus on your academic endeavours.
It’s also important to keep these people around you, because maintaining your social life and taking breaks from study are just as important as studying itself.
Establish routines
One thing that many of us underestimate in our younger years is the power of routine. There’s no denying that we are creatures of habit, and there are so many benefits to establishing a routine – like improved cognitive function, better control over our private lives, and more attention that we can devote to complex tasks (like studying!).
By blocking off set periods of time in your week – like a few hours every Sunday morning, or a couple of hours on weekday evenings – you’ll be able to set yourself clear, realistic goals for completing your tasks.
Relax!
Finally, the most vital point to remember is that your health and wellbeing comes first. By finding ways to relax and unwind, you can lower your stress levels, and feel more focused while you work and study.
You’ll also find that you retain information more effectively – so make sure you take that yoga class, hit the gym, or go for a walk!
Ready to take the leap?
If you’re still not sure about pursuing a degree, don’t worry. As a Hull Online student, you’ll have access to tailored support throughout your journey. Learn more about our online student experience:
