Looking to study while working? [How to time manage]

BY: Palesa Peterson|5 March 2019
BLOG| The digital student life

12SGI Blog - Looking to study while working - here is how to manage your time IMAGE

If you are keen to study but are employed, you may be wondering how you will fit it in. After all, as a Gen-Zer or millennial, you probably have a lot on the go. You need to earn money, you need to spend quality time with your friends, family and pets. You need to fulfill your other passions, whether that is music, art, exercise, saving the earth or Netflix!

But there is good news. With discipline and a rock-solid time management plan, you can have it all. Here are our top tips for studying while working and also having a life. If you prefer, watch our YouTube video of this blog!

1. Choose online study

Of course, we are biased, as an online institute, but the fact of the matter is that studying digitally is a lot more time efficient that studying at a physical university. You don’t have to spend time travelling to and from a campus, you can study any time of the day or night, and you can study entirely at your own pace.

2. Analyse your life and find pockets of time

No judgement, but if you analyse the time you spend on your phone, it is likely you are spending a fair amount of each day on social media or surfing the net. This time, while relaxing, could potentially be reduced significantly if you want to fit in an online course. Instagram isn’t going anywhere, you can catch up when the assignment is done or at the end of the course.

3. Ditch the multitasking

Multitasking is a massive time robber. If you have your phone next to you when studying and are constantly being distracted by WhatsApp messages or Facebook alerts, you are likely to double the amount of time you need to study. Stay focussed and you’ll get through your work extra quickly.

Winning at Online Video 1 How to fit studying into your busy work life

4. Set a schedule

An hour or two a day of dedicated course time is a very good way to get the most from the programme and maintain balance in your life. So, work out when is a good time in your daily schedule to fit this in. If you are a morning person, perhaps get up an hour earlier. If you are a night owl, maybe 9pm will work. Find what works for you and stick to it. Also, try to have a dedicated work space which is conducive to learning.

5. Use your time in motion for the course ‘extras’

Use your phone to watch videos, listen to lectures or download podcasts while you are commuting to and from work. This time is often spent listening to music or napping, (if on public transport or being driven obviously) which amounts to an hour or two every day – lots of time to learn how to be an amazing project manager or how to manage finances. This should not be the main bulk of your time but is a great way to do the extras that add real depth to your learning.

6. Find a study buddy

Whether you sign up for a course with a friend at work or strike up a virtual friendship with someone else doing the module, it is always a good idea to have a ‘partner’ for the course. Someone who you can chat to about issues, who can motivate you and hold you accountable.