How I Managed to Study Alongside Work, Kids, Life, and All the Things
Written by Jacqueline Brown
Certified Family Sleep and Wellness Coach
Student Liaison at Beyond Sleep School
Juggling work, family, and personal commitments while trying to study can seem like an impossible task. I know this because I’ve been there. Balancing my job, caring for kids, and keeping up with all the day-to-day responsibilities, all whilst studying with Beyond Sleep School, could be likened to walking a tightrope. But I managed to navigate all of this by focusing on three key strategies: being intentional with my time, setting clear boundaries, and, perhaps most importantly, enjoying the process and giving myself grace.
Being Intentional with Your Time
Time is a precious commodity, especially when you have so many things on your plate. I learned early on that being intentional with my time was crucial. I started by mapping out my weekly schedule, identifying gaps where I could fit in study sessions. Whether it was during my lunch break, early mornings before the kids woke up, or listening to the audio guide on my commute, I carved out specific slots for studying. This approach ensured that I didn’t have to scramble to find time to study, and it also meant I could give my full attention to my kids and work during their designated times. Prioritising tasks became second nature—I made a habit of distinguishing between what was urgent and what could wait. By doing so, I managed to focus on what really mattered at any given moment, making the most out of the limited time I had.
Setting Clear Boundaries
Setting boundaries was another game-changer for me. It’s easy to let work spill over into family time or allow distractions to eat into study time, but this often leads to burnout and frustration. I had to learn to say no, not just to others but to myself as well. I established specific study hours and communicated them clearly to my husband and family, so they knew when I was unavailable. Similarly, I set boundaries at work, ensuring my colleagues knew my off-hours were dedicated to family and study time. This clarity helped reduce interruptions and allowed me to focus fully on the task at hand, whether it was a work project, a study assignment, or simply spending quality time with my family. By drawing these lines, I could manage my energy better and prevent the various aspects of my life from overwhelming each other.
Enjoying It and Giving Myself Grace
Lastly, and perhaps most importantly, I learned to enjoy the process and give myself grace. It’s easy to get caught up in the stress of it all and feel like you’re always falling short. I realized that my mindset played a huge role in my ability to manage everything. Instead of seeing studying as another chore on my to-do list, I was viewing it as a personal investment and an opportunity to grow - which is easy to do with a great course like BSS! I celebrated small victories, like completing a module or acing a test, and didn’t beat myself up over setbacks. I also gave myself permission to take breaks when needed, understanding that rest is not a luxury but a necessity. By maintaining a positive attitude and being kind to myself, I found joy in the journey, which made the balancing act not only manageable but also fulfilling.
Navigating the complexities of work, family, and study is no easy feat, but with intention, boundaries, and a positive mindset, it’s possible. By being strategic with my time, setting clear boundaries, and embracing the journey, I found a way to achieve my goals without losing myself in the process. If you’re in a similar situation, remember that it’s okay to ask for help, to say no, and to take a step back when you need to. After all, this is your life, and you deserve to enjoy it.