As flexible study options continue to gain popularity, more and more students are juggling study with work and other commitments. This is particularly true for working mothers, many of whom are also completing part-time study and short courses. For many mums, balancing study with the demands of modern family life can feel like the equivalent of two full-time jobs.
At Demi International, we know that studying with a family isn’t easy: It requires an incredible amount of motivation, drive, and determination. To help you take on the challenge and find the perfect study-life balance while completing one of our beauty courses, we’ve put together the following 5 top tips.
- Always plan ahead
When it comes to studying from home, time management is key. A planner or calendar will be your new best friend. At the start of each week, sit down and block out the hours you can dedicate to study. This will help you see the bigger picture of your week and set a study schedule that works with your family commitments, children’s activities, and your own social life. If you share parenting duties with someone, you can also work with them to match your study time to times they are free to mind your children.
While you’re planning your study schedule, make sure to pencil in some family time and me-time to give yourself a much-needed break. Consider making family time a ‘’no technology’’ time where you put down your devices and let yourself be fully present.
- Take time for yourself
When managing work and study, me-time is a non-negotiable! Always take care of yourself and put your own well-being first. Self-care looks slightly different for everyone, and can be anything from coffee with friends to a relaxing bath, walk in nature, or session at the gym.
Working and studying at the same time can be overwhelming, and may take a toll on your mental health if not properly managed. If you’re feeling stressed, always remember to take a step back, gather your thoughts, and only go back to what you were doing once you feel more calm.
- Live a balanced lifestyle
A healthy lifestyle is always something to aspire toward but is even more essential you’re working while studying. Balancing multiple commitments will be much easier if you’re in good health: Make sure you eat a balanced diet, get enough sleep and exercise, and drink plenty of water.
This is particularly good advice if you’re studying remotely, when the boundaries between study- and down-time can blur. Hard work is great, but don’t overdo it: Take plenty of breaks during study sessions and avoid working late into the night.
- Don’t be afraid to ask for help
Ever heard the saying ‘it takes a village to raise a child’? If you’re studying with kids, don’t try to do everything on your own. Avoid putting pressure on yourself to do everything perfectly and all at once, and ask for help from your family and friends if things ever become too much.
Your loved ones should support your journey toward earning a beauty qualification and will mostly likely be more than happy to help if you need it.
- Choose a flexible study option
If you live far from campus or have commitments that make full-time study impossible, consider a course that offers mixed-mode delivery. Demi International courses delivered in this way let you complete part of your beauty course online and attend one of our 3 campuses only 1-2 days a week.
Completing the theory parts of your course online gives you the flexibility to customise your learning hours to suit your needs – and those of your family too.
Flexible study can help you find study-life balance
Managing work and study while keeping up with a busy family life can be challenging, but it’s not impossible. Our 5 tips can help you strike the balance between your studies and other life commitments while you earn a qualification in an industry you love.
Ready to take control of your career and earn a qualification in beauty therapy, massage or makeup? Learn more about our courses today!