How to juggle a job and studies together?

For most of us, managing studies and our job simultaneously can be a tough situation. Especially for those who have lost touch with studies. However, a few steps may ensure fulfillment of goals. First thing first, one has to understand that studies and skills development is an inevitable part of ensuring individual success. Where’s the time? You may ask. One can always get some extra time by minimising the time spent on not-so-important activities like watching TV, reading newspaper etc. The skills you need to deal with your job and studies concurrently are right attitude, resources, proper planning and ability to prioritise things. These in turn will help you set goals, set your priorities right, and make best of your resources like time and money.

Most importantly, when studying for a course, be clear about the goals. The aim should be clear and aligned with your career plans. For instance, a course in software stresses on developing the specific skills on a particular platform and a programme in finance will enhance your analytical and interpretational skills. You need to maximise the investment. One has to master the subject matter by way of inquiry and analysis. In other words understanding the what, why, where, who, when and how of the content matter. One should be very clear about the reason for pursuing a course. For example, when pursuing an MBA, it is not only the degree one is interested in, but also the managerial skills, communication skills and leadership qualities that one develops along the course.

“Most professionals go back to books only to get hold of another degree.As a full-time job takes up most of their time, they land up digging their books only during examination time,” shares Rupali Mehta who has successfully completed her MBA through distance learning along with her full-time job of a sales manager for a FMCG firm. “The basic skill one needs is practical applicability. Relating the skills and learning objectives with day-to-day life will provide the necessary stimulus to keep the necessary interest and may provide a better understanding for managing the job,” says Shashank Saxena, a relationship manager at a leading bank pursuing a part time MBA. The key is not to give up. Most professionals find it difficult to devote time to studies or follow their action plan. One needs to develop a support system at work. One can seek the help of colleagues.At home also one can seek the help of family members and friends. Finally one has to be his own boss and take charge of the situation. If something cannot be done today, chances are it may not be done tomorrow.