7 Ways to Maintain Work-Life Balance While in Grad School

Deciding to go to graduate school involves more than just career advancement. Balancing school with work can be challenging, so it’s important to consider whether you have the time, financial resources, family support, and mental wellness to manage this endeavor. To maintain a healthy work-life balance in grad school, consider these seven tips to help you navigate this demanding period without overwhelming your personal and professional life.

1. Explore remote or hybrid options. Determine if your program is offered online, on campus or a hybrid. An on campus program may not fit your current life situation, particularly if you’re working full time and have a family. It’s also helpful to talk with the professors to gauge their flexibility when it comes to unexpected life issues that may occur during the program.
2. Keep your boss in the loop. Whether you work full time or part time, discuss your plans for grad school with your boss. If your degree can help advance your career your boss should support your decision and accommodate any necessary time away for group projects or travel. Your company may also offer tuition reimbursement opportunities that are well worth taking advantage of.
3. Get your family on board. Be sure to involve your family in the decision to go to grad school. Address how it might impact household responsibilities and create a support plan to adjust the roles as needed.
4. Be in the right state of mind. Make sure you have the mental bandwidth to handle an intense workload. Assess your stress in other aspects of your life, and if you’re feeling overwhelmed in your current situation, this may not be the best time to take on additional responsibilities. It’s important to be open and honest with your family, boss, co-workers, and yourself. Determine the workload of the degree you’re seeking — not just the time it will take, but the level of difficulty as well. Then make an informed decision regarding whether you will have the bandwidth to keep up with the demand from your program.
5. Have a support system. In addition to having the support of your work and home families, create a community with fellow students or join an online community of grad students in a similar situation as you. They can be supportive and help you not feel alone when you’re stressed or overwhelmed.
6. Stay organized. Maintaining a schedule to balance study, work, and family time will be key. Small, but consistent, breaks can help manage stress.
7. Take care of yourself physically. Avoid burnout by staying organized, sticking to a schedule, and balancing your responsibilities. Prioritize your health and be sure to get adequate sleep to maintain your well-being while managing your studies, work, and family duties.