From deadlines to dreams: navigating life while studying and working full-time

My journey and tips for success

Studying and working at the same time is no walk in the park. At times, it may mean cancelling plans, saying no to friends, and waving goodbye to those long, blissful nights of sleep. Balancing a social life, work, and studies can feel overwhelming—especially if you have a knack for procrastination.

However, you’re not alone in this journey! In this blog, I’ll share a glimpse into my experience, the challenges I’ve faced, and a few tips to help make the balancing act a little easier. Let’s dive in!

The reality of studying while working full-time

Getting accepted into the University of London was one of the best things that ever happened to me. I was so excited about pursuing my dreams that I didn’t stop to consider the tough times ahead. The thrill of starting my Master’s degree completely overshadowed the reality of juggling demanding coursework with a full-time job, and  let me tell you—it’s been a whirlwind. A rewarding one, but definitely a whirlwind!

There are days when it feels like there’s no time for myself. Finding balance isn’t easy, but I’ve discovered some strategies that have helped me manage the workload more effectively. If you’re in the same boat, these might work for you too!

EBA: Enroll Before You Act – The ultimate commitment hack

Want to make sure you follow through on your goals? Commit first, then adapt!

I have found this to be one of the most effective techniques out there. When you invest money, time, or energy into something, you create a psychological attachment to it. This makes you far more likely to follow through.

Let’s say you’re planning to take a knitting course. Don’t wait until you “feel ready”—enroll and pay for it now. Once you've made the commitment, you’ll naturally start adjusting your schedule and lifestyle to fit it in.

Why does this work? Because when you've already invested in something, quitting feels like a waste. This small shift in mindset pushes you to stay consistent, build momentum, and fully embrace your new goal.

So, if there’s something you’ve been wanting to do—sign up first, then figure out the rest. Your future self will thank you!

Final thoughts

Balancing work and study isn’t easy, but with the right strategies and support, it’s absolutely doable. Remember to advocate for yourself at work, build a strong support network, and keep things fresh by changing up your study routine.

Most importantly, don’t be too hard on yourself. Some days will be tougher than others, but every step forward is a step closer to your goals. You’ve got this!

Are you juggling work and studies too? Let me know how you manage your time on Discord—I’d love to hear your tips!

Şahnure studies MSc Marketing in Turkey.