How to Find Harmony Between Work, Life and School
Balancing military life and family life is a challenge that most don't ever figure out. With two significant things pulling your attention, it may seem impossible to add another thing to your life. But since you've decided it's time to work on your educational goals, you'll need to figure out how to make it all work.
Prioritize Daily
No matter how many things are on their to-do list, each person has the same number of hours to complete things each day. The key to making it a bit easier is figuring out the priority for that day. You'll need to put everything aside and go to work some days. Others can be dedicated to family time or studying. Ideally, each day would have time for each thing, but that's not always reasonable.
Three to five items on a "must do" list is an excellent way to prevent burnout and overwhelming feelings and still get things done. The critical thing to remember is that each day starts over and gives you another chance.
Schedule in Advance
When it comes to exams and projects, there should be no surprises. By reading your syllabus, you'll be able to add important dates to your calendar and know when you'll need extra studying time.
Work may not be as predictable – especially if you're active-duty military – but you may also be able to predict trips and big projects. Family time is usually what gets pushed to the end of the list when you're balancing work and school. But if you know when the other things are at a lull, you can schedule in this time too. And the worst-case scenario, you can use breaks between classes for make-up family time.
Communication is Key
The only way to be successful with three huge things in your life vying for priority is to communicate well with those around you. The people in your circle want you to succeed, but they also need to know what you need to do.
Talk to your family, friends, kids, boss, coworkers and professors, and let them know your plan for the semester. People who feel like they are part of your plan will work hard to support you.
One of the most reassuring things may be to remember that this isn't going to last forever. Adding school to your already busy lifestyle may seem overwhelming, but it's for a season. And for every season, there is an end. Hang in there. You can do it!
Learn more about the challenges facing transitioning veterans and how VVC can support them.