Pursuing an online MBA while working full-time can help open doors to career advancement. The dual demands of work obligations and academic coursework may take a toll without finding a work-life balance best for you. Students in an online MBA program can achieve greater balance by implementing time management strategies and self-care practices. Here are tips for creating a good work-life balance while completing an online degree:
Schedule in Advance
Planning blocks for studying, work, family time, and personal needs help when juggling multiple priorities. Mark calendars weeks in advance to map out tasks and commitments. Schedule focused study sessions so you can be immersed in coursework without distraction and dedicate time to give work projects undivided attention. Scheduling allows you to prioritize some aspects of life despite hectic demands.
Set Rules Around Digital Devices
Set limits around digital device use to maintain focus on the task at hand during designated work and study periods. It’s easy to get sucked into the constant alerts and notifications from laptops, tablets, and phones when undertaking intense online studies. Enable ‘Do Not Disturb’ features, put phones on airplane mode, or completely power down devices during blocks scheduled for completing assignments. Favor technology that enhances study rather than distracts from it.
Build in Breaks
Build regular small breaks into daily routines to refresh and refocus. Working or studying nonstop often leads to fatigue, diminishing returns, and increased stress over time. Short respites give the mind needed rest from concentrated demands, whether writing papers or compiling reports. If possible, take lunch breaks away from your desk. Schedule exercise such as a walk, yoga, or a trip to the gym to recharge. Periodic breaks help boost productivity.
Form Online Support Groups
Connect with classmates in your online MBA program who also work full-time. Use group texts or discussion forums to check in with peers about the program’s demands. Share best practices for time management or self-care. Vent when work-life-school balance becomes challenging. Bond over shared experiences and motivation to help each other stay focused and on track for deadlines.
Set Work Boundaries
Employees pursuing online degrees require discipline when setting professional availability after hours. Set expectations with managers and colleagues for responding to emails or taking on extra assignments outside the standard workday while enrolled in courses. Draw boundaries regarding how much extra you can handle at this time. Protect time for tackling studies by communicating work-life balance priorities with stakeholders upfront.
Designate School-Only Days
While daily study schedules help maintain momentum, designating at least one full day per week that is work-free offers an opportunity to catch up on missed lectures or schedule group work. Removing the temptation to toggle between school and work commitments helps your fullest mindshare go toward studies during those stretches. Remove work devices and materials from your study space on those days.
Start Assignments Early
Resist waiting until the last minute to begin projects or prep for exams regardless of pressing work obligations. Reserve time blocks on evenings or weekends to start reading, research, or outline writing. Initiating the groundwork ahead of deadlines allows learning to take place while freeing up bigger time slots later for expanding on concepts. By working ahead in smaller increments, you might produce stronger deliverables faster.
Enroll for an Online MBA Program Today
Maintain motivation on the hardest days by reconnecting with your goals for how an online MBA program helps further your personal or professional aspirations. When juggling so many priorities, it can be easy to lose sight of why you started an MBA. Evaluate what doors the degree may open and remain focused. Advance your academics and career through online programs now.
