The Reader’s Corner: Balancing attention

Hello Tamara!

I am currently a full time college student that also work as a waitress in a diner 30 hours a week. Sometimes I can get overwhelmed when trying to balance school, work and my social life. I recently have started dating someone and he is really great, but I feel as if I don’t have the time to get to know him without cutting into my school or work time! How do I balance all of these different aspects of my life and give each the attention it deserves?

Feeling Flustered,

Jessica

Dear Jessica,

Thank you for your question! I can see how a long work week on top of your educational goals and a healthy social life can be a little overwhelming. I have some advice for you.

Simplicity is the key to success when it comes to organizing and prioritizing your life. When you try to see everything as one large problem to solve all at once, it can be quite intimidating. Take everything one step at a time. Separate your education from your work life and work from your social/dating life.

When at work, focus on making your income and doing your job to the best of your ability. Allow yourself a schedule that keeps room for errands. This will prevent you from rushing around trying to get important chores finished before you are late for work!

At school and during the time you set aside for studying and homework, focus solely on your educational goals. Make sure you set aside a couple hours every day to get the necessary assignments completed. Do not procrastinate. Though you may think that procrastinating is a short-term life saver, it eventually will begin to hinder you.

When it comes to your social/ dating life, enjoy it on your free time. When you know that you have completed the most important and necessary parts of your life, going on a date or catching up with friends becomes a lot less stressful and instead something you look forward to. Use this time to relax and find comfort in knowing that you have prioritized in the right way.

Get to know this new guy when you know you have a clear mind and an empty to do list. It is okay to be a little selfish with your time in order to get the important things done.

Take my advice and keep it simple! Everything else will work out how it is supposed to.

Happy to help,

Tamara Eakins