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What is the best way to balance nursing school with work and being active on campus??
I am a full-time nursing student with a full-time job and am also becoming more active on campus. I want to understand the best balance or tricks to help me in the future.
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Rachel’s Answer
Hey Destiny,
You’re doing so much and I really admire it.
All of your commitments sound important to m, and as someone who feels like she’s juggling way too many things, I feel you. Here are a few thoughts I want to share with you - some are cliche, but they’ve helped me.
- Remember you’re trying to run a marathon, not a sprint. So don’t feel like you need to do everything all at once. It’s okay to slow down.
- I personally believe in timing and seasons in life. Slowing down when you’re tired doesn’t mean you’re giving up. You can pick up the optional commitments when you are ready.
- Get to know your stress signals. Does your body feel more tense in periods of high stress? Is your sleep or eating affected? Perhaps you ruminate in your thoughts more than normal? They might be a signal that your mind and body needs a breather. Time to take the foot off the pedal and recuperate.
- Do a regular stock take of your commitments. Which ones are required (why and for what)? How much are you giving to that commitment, is it more or less than required? Which ones give you joy and re-energises you? Which ones do the opposite? You may be going above and beyond for something even though it’s not required, that’s ok. You might also realise you’re doing something optional and doesn’t give you anything in return (giving you happiness counts here though!); cull those. The goal is for you to prioritise your commitments and CHOOSE which ones you invest in and which ones get less of your attention. Being in control of your life is a huge part of managing stress.
Remember to look after yourself. Put your wellbeing first: this is your responsibility and no one else’s. I’m not saying you should be fully selfish, but just a reminder that you can’t look after others if you’re running on empty.
You’re doing so much and I really admire it.
All of your commitments sound important to m, and as someone who feels like she’s juggling way too many things, I feel you. Here are a few thoughts I want to share with you - some are cliche, but they’ve helped me.
- Remember you’re trying to run a marathon, not a sprint. So don’t feel like you need to do everything all at once. It’s okay to slow down.
- I personally believe in timing and seasons in life. Slowing down when you’re tired doesn’t mean you’re giving up. You can pick up the optional commitments when you are ready.
- Get to know your stress signals. Does your body feel more tense in periods of high stress? Is your sleep or eating affected? Perhaps you ruminate in your thoughts more than normal? They might be a signal that your mind and body needs a breather. Time to take the foot off the pedal and recuperate.
- Do a regular stock take of your commitments. Which ones are required (why and for what)? How much are you giving to that commitment, is it more or less than required? Which ones give you joy and re-energises you? Which ones do the opposite? You may be going above and beyond for something even though it’s not required, that’s ok. You might also realise you’re doing something optional and doesn’t give you anything in return (giving you happiness counts here though!); cull those. The goal is for you to prioritise your commitments and CHOOSE which ones you invest in and which ones get less of your attention. Being in control of your life is a huge part of managing stress.
Remember to look after yourself. Put your wellbeing first: this is your responsibility and no one else’s. I’m not saying you should be fully selfish, but just a reminder that you can’t look after others if you’re running on empty.
Updated
Mehek’s Answer
Hi Destiny, it's truly amazing that you're juggling nursing school, a full-time job, and thinking about getting involved on campus. That's a big achievement! When I was in college, I found that balance came from knowing I couldn't do everything and focusing on what mattered most. It's important to prioritize your studies, but also think about joining a few campus activities that really benefit you. You might want to join a nursing student association, volunteer at community clinics for hands-on experience, or go to healthcare networking events. These can help you make great connections and support your studies. Remember that success comes from consistently investing time in the things that help you grow. Best of luck with everything, Destiny!