Balancing work, family, and everything else in your life is already a challenge. Adding college to that mix can feel overwhelming. Many adult learners wonder if they can fit it all in or worry that there aren’t enough hours in the day. But here’s the good news—going back to school is possible.
It’s not about doing more–it’s about doing what matters most. With the right time management strategies and a mindset that creates space for flexibility and growth, you can take control of your schedule and succeed.
Let’s walk through some simple, practical strategies to make time for school as a working adult or busy parent.
Take a Closer Look at Your Time
Before making any changes, it’s important to understand how you’re currently spending your time. It might feel like there’s no room for school, but taking a step back can help you get a sense of where your time goes.
- Track your activities for three to five days tracking what you do—work, family responsibilities, commuting, social activities, and even downtime.
- Look for “time drains”—those moments that take up more time than you realize, like scrolling on your phone, watching TV, or sitting in traffic.
- Find hidden time pockets. Spot small windows of time that could be repurposed—thosecan add up more than you think.
Understanding your current schedule helps you make thoughtful changes.
Focus on What Matters Most
Once you have a clear sense of how you’re spending your time, the next step is to focus on what’s most important to you.
- Use the “Must, Should, Could” Method: Break your tasks into three simple categories:
- Must do: These are your non-negotiables, like work, childcare, or attending class.
- Should do: These are important but flexible tasks, like cooking meals or cleaning.
- Could do: These are things you enjoy but can cut back on if needed, like watching TV or scrolling on your phone.
- Group similar tasks together: Instead of jumping between work, school, and home responsibilities, try batching similar tasks into blocks of time. This approach can help you stay focused and get more done.
- Share your priorities: Let your family, friends, and employer know about your school commitments. Having their support can go a long way in helping you stick to your schedule.
By making small, thoughtful changes to how you prioritize, you might be surprised at how much time you can free up. Remember, it’s okay to ask for help and adjust as you go.
Choose a School Format That Works for You
We know how busy life can get, and juggling education with everything else on your plate isn’t always easy. That’s why choosing the right learning format can make all the difference—it’s about finding what works best for you and your schedule.
- Online Degree Programs: Learn from anywhere, no commute required. Perfect when you need flexibility and convenience.
- Hybrid Courses: A mix of online and in-person classes, giving you the structure you need with room to adjust.
- Evening and Weekend Classes: Great for fitting school around a 9-to-5 or other commitments.
- Accelerated Programs: Move through courses quicker, saving you time while staying focused on your goals.
Picking a format that fits your lifestyle will make a big difference in how manageable school feels.
Make the Most of Your Study Time
Instead of trying to add more to an already packed schedule, focus on making your study time work smarter for you.
- Microlearning: Use small windows of time—15 to 30 minutes during a break or while waiting—to focus on specific topics. Little by little, it adds up.
- Use Technology: Apps, audiobooks, or voice notes allow you to study on the go while keeping things manageable.
- Prioritize What Matters: Focus on the key concepts that will have the biggest impact, instead of feeling like you need to tackle everything equally.
- Study When You’re Most Alert: Whether you’re a morning person or a night owl, find your most productive times and dedicate them to your studies.
Remember, it’s not about doing it all perfectly—it’s about finding what works for you and taking it one step at a time.
Build a Support Network
Good time management isn’t just about having a plan—it’s also about having people in your corner who understand what you’re working toward and want to help you get there.
- Delegate household tasks. Ask family members, partners, or roommates to help out so you can focus more on your studies.
- Talk to your boss. Some workplaces offer flexible schedules or even tuition assistance for employees going back to school. It’s worth having that conversation.
- Connect with peers. Join classmates, friends, or online study groups to keep yourself motivated and accountable.
Having a supportive network can help you stay on track and reduce stress.
Stay Flexible and Be Kind to Yourself
No matter how much you plan, life doesn’t always cooperate. Work deadlines pop up, family emergencies happen, and burnout can sneak in when you least expect it.
It’s okay to adjust your plans. And it’s important to give yourself grace when things don’t go perfectly. Flexibility and self-compassion are essential to finding balance and staying on track.
- Give yourself extra time. Build some breathing room into your schedule so you can handle surprises without feeling like you’re falling behind.
- Be flexible. If something isn’t working, it’s okay to adjust. How you approach school in your first semester might change as you find what fits best for you.
- Be kind to yourself. Some weeks will feel manageable, and others might feel more challenging. What matters is making progress, step by step, not striving for perfection every day.
Flexibility and self-compassion are your best tools for long-term success.
Finding the Time on Your Terms
Going back to school as a busy adult may seem daunting, but with intentional planning and the right support, you can succeed. Every small step brings you closer to your goals. Start small, stay consistent, and ask for help when you need it.
