Have you ever thought about how you are going to manage your job and course workload and how it will affect your personal life? According to a YouGov report, young workers up to the age of 34 are the unhappiest due to the expectations of their bosses. In many cases, there’s additional pressure on employees to work extra hours. On top of that, as students, we need to cope with university demands. When deciding to go to university it is crucial to prepare for the changes it will bring. Throughout this post, ‘work/life design’- a term recommended by Ari Horie – will be used to help you ‘design’ your life.
‘D’ for Duties
For full time students, I would personally recommend working in the summer or winter breaks and keep working hours throughout the term to a minimum. You should really be focusing on your studies at that time, not on looking for a job, so think about it earlier and secure a job offer before the term starts. However, if you do have to find a new job when you have just begun your studies, you must consider your availability and time needed to study. Look for opportunities in the area you live. Minimise the time needed to commute or make use of it by reading for your course.
‘E’ for Employer
It is much easier to manage your time when you already have a job because the employer knows you and it should be easier to negotiate conditions. Speak with your manager about the situation, perhaps together you can find a solution, e.g. working fewer or flexible hours, working from home or sharing the workload with your colleagues.
If, as a part time student, you need to carry on working full time while studying, take some overtime before the academic year begins so the money you save will allow you to take a couple of days off around your exams and assignments.
‘S’ for Studies
Prioritise your studies. Look for employers that will accept your study commitments – working on campus is an option worth considering. However, it is up to you, not to your employer or university, to ensure that you are satisfied with your work/study lifestyle.
‘I’ as in family?
Design your work/study life style according to YOUR needs and stick to your plan. Do try to carve out some time with your friends and family. Relaxing and sharing your experiences with a friend can really help to unwind. Let to-do-lists be your guide and remember to put time for family and friends on them.
‘G’ as in enerGy
When deciding whether to join societies or sports club, bear in mind that the type of activity is important. For instance, if you are more of an introvert, too many social events would leave you feeling drained rather than relaxed. The key is to find the type of activity that will give you the positive energy you need. You could also share some daily duties with your flat mates to save yourself extra time, e.g. cooking for each other in a way that helps manage your busy academic lives.
‘N’ as in balaNce
These days it’s almost impossible to separate all aspects of life. How many times have you checked your work e-mails at home? If you love the subject that you are studying, you don’t mind having your personal life connected to it. So, if you ever feel that studies have taken over your life balance, remember that this is only temporary and soon you’ll have time for travel or your hobbies.
Most importantly, try not to compare yourself to others. Especially on social media, people tend to portray the perfect version of themselves; envying your friends won’t make you feel good. Focus on your work, study and life design and take small steps to improve it.
Alicja is currently studying part time for an MA Education, Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL).