Walking the tightrope: mastering the balance between work and study

As a full-time medical doctor working in a demanding environment, choosing to pursue a master’s in Public Health wasn’t a decision I took lightly. The vision of contributing to a broader, public-focused aspect of healthcare has always inspired me, but the reality of balancing work with study has been a delicate, almost acrobatic act. Yet, over time, I’ve learnt a few strategies that have helped me keep my balance. If you too are walking this tightrope, I hope these tips can help you find stability and resilience in your own journey. 

1. Make lists of everything

It sounds simple, but making lists has become one of my most powerful tools. When you’re juggling both work and study, it’s easy to forget what you need to accomplish in either area. I keep separate lists for work tasks, study goals and personal to-dos. Breaking down tasks into smaller, manageable actions keeps me from feeling overwhelmed and gives me a sense of achievement as I tick things off.  

2. Set small, daily tasks

When I started my master’s programme, I’d often try to tackle huge chunks of work at a time, only to end up exhausted and frustrated. Now, I’ve learned to set small, achievable daily tasks. Instead of trying to read an entire chapter after a long day, I might aim to read just a few pages or complete one problem at a time. This approach keeps me consistently moving forward without burning out.

3. Look for practical applications in your studies

As a doctor, I’m constantly finding ways to relate what I study in Public Health to my work. I’ve learned that actively seeking these connections not only reinforces my learning but also keeps me motivated. This link between study and practice helps me see the purpose in my education, making the effort more meaningful and rewarding.

4. Take time to rest and disconnect

It’s easy to feel like every spare moment should be filled with studying, but rest is crucial for absorbing new information. I’ve found that the times when I allow myself to disconnect are when concepts I’ve been struggling with start to “sink in”. Giving yourself permission to rest might feel counterintuitive, but it is during these moments that your brain consolidates what you have learnt.

5. Set realistic goals based on your energy levels 

When you’re balancing work and study, it is essential to be honest with yourself about your limits. There will be days when you are simply too tired to study, and that’s okay. Pushing yourself beyond your capacity only leads to burnout. Instead, set goals that are attainable based on your time and energy levels.  

6. Pace yourself during quieter periods 

It’s tempting to ease up on studying when assessments and assignments are far away, but I’ve learnt the hard way that assessment time always comes sooner than expected. During quieter periods, I try to keep up a light but steady pace in my studies. Reviewing notes, going over past assignments, or reading ahead ensures I’m never completely caught off guard by upcoming deadlines.  

7. Prioritise your mental health 

The pressure of balancing work and studying can take a toll on your mental health, and it’s vital not to neglect it. If I feel like stress is building up, I make a point to talk with friends or colleagues who understand what I’m going through. Sometimes, just voicing your worries can be incredibly relieving. If the weight feels too heavy, seeking help from a mental health professional is always a wise step. Remember, you’re not in this alone, and there’s strength in seeking support. Slowing down, if needed, isn’t a step backward; it’s often a necessary pause for moving forward. 

As I recently read in a book by Albert Schweitzer, “it’s not success that leads to happiness, but happiness that leads us to success.” This idea has reframed my entire approach to balancing work and study. When we’re content in our day-to-day lives, we’re better equipped to handle challenges and reach our goals. So, rather than focusing solely on achievements, I’ve learned to prioritise my wellbeing. 

Balance doesn’t mean dividing time equally between work, study, family, friends, and hobbies every single day. Instead, it’s about giving time to the things that bring us peace and joy. Some days, that might mean dedicating more time to my studies; other days, it’s prioritising a dinner with loved ones or enjoying a long walk.  

Balancing work and study is no easy feat, but with small, consistent steps and a focus on wellbeing, it’s possible to thrive. So, let’s focus on finding happiness each day, on keeping balance and on giving ourselves permission to breathe. Success will follow naturally. 

All the best with your studies! 

Corinna studies MSc Public Health in Italy.