To Work? To Socialise? To Study?

Whether you're currently in high school or about to start your first year at uni or maybe if you're simply confused about what to spend your time on in general... Let's talk about that work, social, and study balance.

We have all gone through the endless talks from teachers and parents about being able to stay balanced between work and life. But, for me anyway, I struggled to understand what I should prioritise at certain times while still enjoying my time at University. Even though I've only just finished my first year, I'd say I've learnt a few things about dealing with the stress that comes with exams and assessments while simultaneously making memories with the new friends I had made. Throughout me trying to figure out how I will tetris different things into my life, I've been able to understand my own prefered work to play ratio as well as learn little organisational tips to which will hopefully lead to my own success. So much so that, would you believe, I'm already excited to get back into learning and being independent again in this upcoming academic year.

What makes you happy? Brings you joy?

I've grown up taking in part in almost everything imaginable: sports, art, music, and volunteering. Which is why even today I have to be taking part in more than just studying.

My question to you is: What's your outlet? Do you enjoy shopping? or hiking? or even binge-watching your current favourite tv show on Netflix?

Trust me, that's your saviour when it comes to enjoying University. What I've found out is that just studying and lectures will not fulfil your University experience. Shock! And by "fulfil" I mean both the level of enjoyment that you feel throughout your academic years AND your overall success in your course.

Let me tell you something, if I had been studying 24/7 and stressing about my overall mark, I'd begin to hate what I'm doing and the career path I'm choosing to go down... and let's be real, the goal isn't to just have a career in itself, but to enjoy what you're doing in the long run.

Use Your Hobbies as an Outlet

Now, this doesn't mean your hobbies are your main and studying is on the side. When I started Uni, I quickly fell down the hole of doing everything except studying—don't get me wrong I was still one to finish the homework... but let's just say I didn't necessarily do it to the best of my abilities.

What I'm saying is you can wake up in the morning, have your breakfast, study but at some point, you DO need a break. For me, that break is going to the gym, watching a bit of youtube or doing some photography around the city. But when you take that break, stay wary of how long you're taking because you can easily go down the same path as the beginning where you started the day off with the right intentions but ended up spending hours on youtube and completely lost track of time. With this, you will come back with a fresh mind where you can review what you did in the morning or continue working on the assigned task.

By doing this, I was able to continue doing the little things I love (ie. art and being active) while still staying on top of my work and what we're being taught at University.

Is Your Ratio Right?

Looking back, it took a while to understand which ratio worked for me and whether it truly was the right combination to where I am happy with where I am and what my future could hold. At first I did not have it right whatsoever, and the struggle came with prioritising work. This lasted a while. I wasn't used to being completely independent... which meant I spent more time at my friend's flats than my own. Over time, I realised how much I treasured myself time and how just being on my own made me understand myself better and reflect on what type of student, friend, sister, daughter, and person I wanted to be.

It's ok if it Takes a While

If I'm honest, it almost took me the entire year to get the ratio right. To understand my best form of studying for the different types of exams. But I got there and you guys can too. But you can't get lost in this whole new world of university because it truly does fly by and if you don't have that set goal of where you want to be by the end of it... it's hard to say what will happen.

This doesn't mean plan out every second of every day. It's life-changing to live spontaneously but having that goal just pushes and motivates you to strive for that success that everyone has got in them.

I found this quote on an Instagram page which just gave me confidence, inspiration and excitement to push myself even if it's hard because I know I can make it happen.

"I f***ing love the woman I'm becoming. It gives me chills. She knows her wort. She's got great boundariesShe motivations and ready to make it all happen."

My list of what you should always consider:

1. It's up to you to find that ratio but don't be afraid to play around and take your time.
2. Find friends who uplift you.
3. Remember why you're in University in the first place.
4. Have that goal set.
5. Don't diminish your potential.

Study tips:

1. Keep your room somewhat clean! It creates a great environment for you to study or simply come home to.—I struggle with this but it really does make a difference when I'm sleeping in a tidy room vs. clothes all over the floor.
2. If you don't like studying in your room, find that one cafe/library/area which optimises your efficiency of working.
3. Don't always think to study on your own is the best way to go. I have practical exams and I found that talking it out with a friend as if we were having a conversation about sports solidified my knowledge and pushed a more in-depth understanding than surface level.
4. Have a plan on what you want to complete that day/week.

You know you've found the right study habits when you feel prepared for the exam (being nervous doesn't mean you aren't prepared! Everyone feels nervous... it's normal!)—and at the end, you see the result. If you don't get that result look back at the way you're studying and the mistakes you made in the exam. Lecturers are always open to speaking with you about the tricks they've seen work and what exactly you might've misunderstood.

Study but HAVE FUN!

Don't forget you're at University to ultimately come out with a degree but also with friends and many memories to share. Don't focus all your time on work but always have your end goal in mind—one which should push you, don't let yourself settle.

I'd love to hear your own journeys!