Balancing study and work at the same time can feel overwhelming, but it is definitely possible. Many students find themselves needing to work part-time or even full-time while continuing their education. Whether you’re studying to improve your skills, change careers, or earn a qualification for your current job, managing both work and study can be done with the right mindset and tools. It requires good planning, time management, and a clear focus on your goals. At first, it may seem difficult to juggle classes, assignments, and job responsibilities, but with some smart strategies, you can stay organized and succeed. In this article, we will explore simple and practical tips to help you stay balanced, reduce stress, and make the most of your time—so that you can succeed in both your job and your studies.
Tips for Balancing
1. Set Clear Goals
One of the first steps to balancing work and study is knowing exactly what you want to achieve. When you have a clear purpose, it’s easier to stay motivated, even when things get busy or stressful. Think about your goals as a personal roadmap — they guide your decisions and help you stay on track.
Start by asking yourself a few important questions:
- Why am I studying right now?
Is it to get a better job, learn a new skill, or move forward in your current career? - What kind of work do I want to do in the future?
Understanding your career goals helps you focus on learning the things that will be most useful. - How much time can I realistically give to my studies each week?
Be honest about your schedule. If you’re working long hours, you may need to plan your study time carefully.
Once you’ve answered these questions, write your goals down. Keeping your goals visible — on a piece of paper, your phone, or your wall — can serve as a daily reminder of why you’re working so hard.
Also, try to set short-term and long-term goals:
- Short-term goals might include finishing an assignment by the weekend or attending all classes this week.
- Long-term goals could be finishing your course in a year or starting a new job in your chosen field.
Clear goals give your time and energy direction. When you’re tired after work or feeling stressed, remembering your “why” can push you to keep going. Goals turn your study time from something you have to do into something you want to do.
And don’t worry if your goals change along the way. That’s normal. What’s important is to check in with yourself often, reflect on your progress, and update your goals when needed. This way, you’ll always feel a sense of purpose and direction, no matter how busy life gets
2. Create a Weekly Schedule
Having a clear weekly schedule is one of the most helpful ways to stay on top of both your job and your studies. When your time is planned out, you can focus better and avoid forgetting important things.
Start by using a planner, calendar, or scheduling app—whatever works best for you. Write down everything you already know, like:
- Your work hours
- Your class times
- Time needed for homework or assignments
- Meal times
- Breaks and rest
- Family or personal time
Once you can see your week clearly, it’s easier to find free time for studying. For example, if you work in the evenings, maybe your best study time is in the morning or on weekends. Even short study sessions—like 30 minutes a day—can be very helpful if you plan them well.
Also, don’t forget to include breaks. Your brain needs time to rest. If you plan everything back-to-back without rest, you might feel tired or burned out. A good schedule gives you time to work, study, and relax too.
Stick to your schedule as much as possible, but don’t worry if things change sometimes. Life can be unpredictable. If something comes up, just move things around and get back on track the next day. The goal is progress, not perfection.
A schedule helps reduce stress because it gives you control. Instead of feeling overwhelmed by everything you have to do, you’ll know exactly when you’re going to do it.
3. Prioritise Your Tasks
When you have both work and school responsibilities, it’s easy to feel like everything is important. But the truth is, not every task needs your attention right away. That’s why learning how to prioritise your tasks is so important.
A good way to do this is to use the “urgent vs. important” method. Here’s how it works:
- Urgent and Important – Do these tasks first. They are both important and have a deadline. For example, if you have an assignment due tomorrow, that needs to be done now.
- Important but Not Urgent – These tasks help you in the long run, but don’t have a deadline yet. For example, reading a new chapter or reviewing your notes. Plan time in your schedule to do these.
- Urgent but Not Important – These tasks seem urgent but may not help you reach your goals. For example, answering non-work messages during study time. If you can, delay them or delegate them.
- Not Urgent and Not Important – These are distractions. Watching too much TV or spending hours on social media might seem relaxing, but they don’t help you move forward. Try to limit these activities.
You can also make a daily or weekly to-do list and mark the most important tasks. Tackle the hardest or most urgent ones first, while your energy is high. This helps you avoid last-minute stress and gives you a sense of achievement early in the day.
Prioritising doesn’t mean doing more—it means doing what matters most. With this habit, you’ll be more productive and feel more in control of your time.
4. Talk to Your Employer
If you’re working while studying, it’s a good idea to have an open and honest conversation with your employer. Many employers appreciate workers who are improving their skills through education. When they understand your goals, they may be more willing to support you.
Here are a few things they might be able to offer:
- Flexible working hours – You might be able to start earlier, finish later, or adjust your shifts around your classes.
- Time off during exams or assessments – If you’re upfront about important dates, some employers may let you take leave or swap shifts.
- Reduced hours or part-time options – During busy study periods, you may be able to reduce your work hours temporarily.
- Work experience related to your course – If your job is related to your field of study, your employer might help you apply what you’re learning in real-life situations.
The key is communication. Talk to your manager as early as possible. Explain your schedule and any important deadlines. When you show that you’re serious about your responsibilities—both at work and at school—most employers will try to support you.
Remember, your success in school can also benefit your employer, especially if your new skills make you more valuable at work. A good conversation can lead to a win-win situation for both of you.
5. Use College Resources
Don’t try to do everything on your own. Most colleges, including Ashford, provide student support services to help you succeed. These resources are there for a reason—so make the most of them.
Some common resources you can use include:
- Tutoring and study support – If you’re having trouble with a topic, a tutor can explain it in a way that makes sense.
- Online learning tools – Many schools offer recorded lectures, quizzes, and helpful materials through student portals or apps.
- Assignment help – You might be able to book time with someone who can guide you on writing essays, doing research, or preparing presentations.
- Library services – A college library isn’t just for books; it often has quiet spaces, free Wi-Fi, and staff who can help you find information quickly.
- Counselling and wellbeing support – If you’re feeling stressed or overwhelmed, talking to a student counsellor can really help.
Using these resources is a smart move. It shows that you’re taking your studies seriously and want to do your best. Asking for help is not a weakness—it’s a strength.
Sometimes, even a short chat with a tutor or support staff can make a big difference in how confident and prepared you feel.
6. Make Time for Rest
When you’re trying to balance work and study, it’s easy to forget about rest. But rest is not a luxury—it’s a necessity. If you don’t take care of your body and mind, your energy will run out, and it will be harder to focus, learn, or do your job well.
Here are some simple tips to make sure you’re getting enough rest:
- Aim for 7 to 8 hours of sleep each night – Sleep helps your brain store what you’ve learned and gives your body time to recover.
- Take short breaks during study sessions – Try using the 50/10 rule: study for 50 minutes, then take a 10-minute break. Stretch, get some fresh air, or grab a snack.
- Give yourself at least one full day off each week – Use that day to relax, have fun, or spend time with family and friends. This helps reduce stress and brings balance to your life.
- Listen to your body – If you feel tired, it’s okay to pause and rest. Pushing yourself too hard can lead to burnout, which slows you down in the long run.
It might feel like resting takes away from your productivity—but it’s actually the opposite. When you rest well, you focus better, learn faster, and work more efficiently. Taking care of yourself is the first step to taking care of your responsibilities.
7. Stay Healthy
Your health is the foundation of everything you do. When you’re busy with work and study, it’s easy to forget about taking care of yourself—but staying healthy keeps your energy up and your mind sharp.
Here are simple ways to protect your physical and mental health:
- Eat regular, balanced meals – Don’t skip meals. Choose healthy foods like fruits, vegetables, grains, and proteins to fuel your body.
- Drink enough water – Staying hydrated helps you concentrate better and keeps you feeling alert.
- Move your body – Even a short walk or a few stretches each day can improve your mood and reduce stress. You don’t need a gym—just move more.
- Practice relaxation – Deep breathing, meditation, or quiet time can help calm your mind. Even 5 minutes a day makes a difference.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, tired, or sick often, it’s a sign to slow down and care for your body. Your mind works best when your body is well-rested and well-fed.
Balancing work and study is easier when your health is strong—so make it a daily priority.
8. Study Smart, Not Just Hard
It’s not just about how long you study—it’s about how well you study. Using smart techniques can help you learn faster and remember more without burning out.
Try these smart study tips:
- Make summary notes or flashcards – Writing things in your own words helps you understand better. Flashcards are great for quick reviews.
- Teach what you’ve learned to someone else – If you can explain it simply, it means you understand it well.
- Use practice questions or quizzes – Testing yourself is a powerful way to remember information and find out what you still need to study.
- Focus on understanding, not just memorising – Try to connect the ideas to real-life situations or examples. This makes it easier to remember during tests or at work.
If you’re short on time, study during your most productive hours—this might be early morning, during lunch breaks, or in the evening. And always take short breaks to rest your brain.
Studying smart means using your time wisely, learning deeply, and avoiding stress.
9. Stay Connected
Don’t try to do everything alone. Connecting with others can make your study and work life easier and more enjoyable.
Here’s how staying connected helps:
- Talk to your classmates – They’re going through the same journey. You can share ideas, solve problems together, or study in groups.
- Ask teachers for help – If you’re struggling with a topic or assignment, speak up. Teachers want to see you succeed.
- Keep in touch with family and friends – They can support you emotionally, remind you to rest, and celebrate your wins.
- Join online forums or student networks – Some schools have online study groups or discussion boards. These are great for asking questions and finding motivation.
- Start building your professional network – The people you meet during your course might become future co-workers or employers.
Even if your schedule is full, try to stay connected with at least one or two people regularly. Sharing your thoughts, challenges, and goals helps you feel supported—and you’re more likely to stay motivated when you’re not alone.
10. Use Technology Wisely
Technology can make your life easier—if you use it the right way. There are many tools to help you manage your time, organise your tasks, and study better.
Here are some helpful tools:
- Google Calendar – Plan your day, set reminders, and never miss a class or deadline.
- Trello or Todoist – Keep track of assignments, work shifts, and personal tasks.
- Moodle or Ashford LMS – Use your learning platform to access class materials, submit assignments, and get feedback.
- Quizlet – Create flashcards and play memory games to make studying fun.
- Grammarly – Check your grammar and spelling in assignments.
But remember: technology can also be a distraction. Limit your use of social media, video games, or streaming sites when it’s time to study. Try using “focus mode” on your phone or installing apps that block distractions for a while.
Use technology to help you, not to waste your time.
11. Learn to Say “No”
When you are studying and working, your time is limited. You can’t say “yes” to everything—and that’s okay. Learning to say “no” is a sign of strength, not weakness.
You might have to say “no” to:
- Taking on extra work shifts
- Going out with friends every weekend
- Helping others when your own schedule is full
It’s not about being rude. It’s about protecting your time and energy. You are investing in your future. Saying “no” today helps you say “yes” to graduation, a better job, and a proud moment later on.
Always ask yourself: Does this support my goals? If not, it’s okay to politely decline.
12. Celebrate Small Wins
Big achievements are built on small steps. When you reach a milestone, even a small one, take a moment to celebrate.
Examples of small wins:
- Finishing a hard assignment
- Attending all your classes this week
- Balancing a full week of work and study
- Passing a quiz or getting positive feedback
Celebrate in simple ways:
- Treat yourself to a nice meal or coffee
- Watch your favourite movie
- Enjoy a relaxing walk or a fun day out
- Share your success with family or friends
Recognising progress keeps you motivated and happy. You deserve to feel proud of your efforts.
13. Reflect and Adjust
No plan is perfect. Sometimes, things go wrong. You might miss a deadline, feel overwhelmed, or forget something important. That’s okay—it’s part of learning.
Take time each week to reflect:
- What went well?
- What didn’t go as planned?
- What changes can I make?
Maybe you need to:
- Study at a different time of day
- Work fewer hours during busy school periods
- Ask for help sooner
Small changes can make a big difference. Be honest with yourself, but also kind. Adjusting your plan helps you stay on track and feel more in control.
14. Ask for Feedback
Feedback is one of the fastest ways to improve. Don’t be afraid to ask others what they think about your work or progress.
You can ask:
- Trainers – for help improving your skills
- Managers – for advice on how to do better at work
- Classmates – for suggestions or tips
- Mentors – for career or study guidance
Example: If you’re studying Certificate III in Painting and Decorating, ask your trainer to check your technique or give advice on how to improve your finish. Or if you’re doing a course in Kitchen Management, ask how you can be more organised in a busy kitchen.
Good feedback shows you what you’re doing right and where you can grow. Use it to become better every week.
15. Stay Positive
The road may be long and sometimes hard, but your attitude makes a big difference. Staying positive helps you face challenges and keep moving forward.
Try these tips to stay positive:
- Remember your “why” – Why did you start this course? Keep that reason in your heart.
- Talk kindly to yourself – Avoid saying “I can’t do this.” Instead, say, “I’m learning and improving.”
- Surround yourself with support – Be around people who believe in you.
- Focus on what you’ve already achieved – Look back at how far you’ve come.
Yes, there will be tough days. But you are stronger than you think. Keep going, step by step. Your effort today is creating a better future.
Final Thoughts
Balancing work and study can seem hard at first. But with planning, support, and a positive mindset, it is possible. Whether you’re pursuing a Certificate III in Painting and Decorating, Certificate III in Carpentry, Certificate III in Cabinet Making and Timber Technology, Diploma of Building and Construction (Building), Certificate III in Commercial Cookery, Certificate IV in Kitchen Management, Diploma of Hospitality Management and Graduate Diploma of Management (Learning) at Ashford, these tips can help you succeed.
