Today, as the pace of change is unrelenting and job markets demand increasingly competitive skill sets, more adults are returning to the classroom without leaving work. Among those heroes is Lisa Dlamini, a dynamic professional who is proving that education does not stop when your career starts.
Armed with determination and a vision, Dlamini is pursuing her Degree in Human Resource Management at the University of Johannesburg in South Africa, while simultaneously climbing the ladder in her professional life.
Juggling school, work and life in general is not easy since it takes a lot of attention, discipline and heart. “Continuing to study while working is important because it helps me grow my career and expand my skill set,” said Dlamini. “It boosts my confidence and is a path to personal development that opens new networking opportunities through meeting people from different backgrounds,” added Dlamini.
skills
Dlamini says learning is a journey that never stops, even if you have a job, since it helps one to enhance their skills. However, to do that effectively, she says it’s important to schedule how she balances her work, school and social life.
Dlamini explained that as a mature learner, balancing work, social life and school requires intentional planning and ongoing self-awareness. “I rely heavily on effective time management by creating a structured schedule and using digital calendars to map out my week,” explained Dlamini.
She added that this helps her because it allows her to allocate dedicated time for classes, work responsibilities and personal activities without overlap. She also emphasised prioritising tasks based on urgency and importance, which helps reduce stress and avoid last-minute pressure. “To maintain balance, I set boundaries like designating no-study evenings to connect with friends and unwind,” reflected Dlamini. Additionally, she explained that communication with her employer and lecturers helps manage expectations since they know that she is trying her level best to juggle both worlds.
Self-aware
Moreover, for Dlamini, working and studying while maintaining a healthy work-life balance as a mature learner requires her to be disciplined, structured and self-aware. However, one of her most effective strategies is creating a schedule since it helps her to plan ahead and allocate time to specific tasks, so she avoids last-minute pressure and ensures each area of her life receives the attention it deserves. Dlamini explained that being a mature learner has taught her that growth never stops, no matter where you are in your life. Balancing work, studies and personal commitments is not easy, but she mentioned that it is incredibly rewarding.
Tips on how to juggle both worlds
- Creating a schedule
- Set clear goals
- Use time blocking
- Prioritise self-care
- Communicate with employer and lecturer
- Use productivity tools
- Seek support
- Stay focused
- Review and adjust
- Take breaks
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