Above all else you need to prioritise sleep, family and exercise.
Based on the things you have decided can and can’t make way for study, give yourself some targets and then find a program that will work with you on hitting them.
In these targets consider your personal and professional goals, and the things you feel you need to do in order to get closer to achieving them.
Finding a program that is flexible and allows you to adjust if and when you need should be a priority so as to ensure you never put yourself under too much pressure.
Being realistic with yourself and what it is you expect to achieve will not only reduce the pressure you put on yourself it will also ensure that you don’t set yourself up for failure.
At some point or another, your study will spill over in to other points of your life – it’s to be expected and it’s OK. Making the investment in education is always a good one. However, to make it a great one, find a program that is in line with what you’re passionate about and your various life goals.
Give yourself the time to identify what would make a meaningful difference, both now and into the future, and pick a course that will contribute.
Education is something to be proud of no matter what stage of life you’re in, and therefore communicating where you’re at with others is nothing to hide. What you don’t want to do is keep it to yourself, leaving everyone guessing why it is that you may be a little more tired or distracted than normal.
Not only will they appreciate having a better understanding of you, they’ll be more likely to give you that support and encouragement you need if ever things get a little overwhelming.
If you’re going to study, you may as well do it properly. Make sure that you have all the support, resources and motivation that you need as you get started.
Find a system that works for you that will help you stay on top of all your deadlines and responsibilities. Speak with your family and friends so they know what to expect. Build a support network around you that you can call on for guidance and support, if and when you need it.
If you don’t yet have a mentor, find one that you respect and who has been there and done that, in whatever the direction it is that you choose to go. If online study sounds like something you might be interested in, head over to our enquiry page and we'll be in touch.
The views expressed in this article are those of the author and not necessarily those of Ducere.