14 answers
Valeria
Student
Concord, California
1
Question
Asked
1135 views
How did you overcome your personal/outside life from getting in the way of your education?
I personally am the type to let everything get to me so like work and personal problems, they'll stop me from doing my work in school which I have to prioritize. I need to find a way to help me keep going even though there are MULTIPLE different things going on, I try not stressing myself and even take a break from school but SCHOOL is what needs to get prioritized. I just need a coping mechanism to get my educational work together without messing myself up mentally or physically.
Login to comment
14 answers
Joanna Rose Mañaol, CPA, CISA
IT Auditor
200
Answers
San Jose, California
Updated
Joanna Rose’s Answer
Hello Valeria,
Overcoming personal or outside life distractions from my education involved setting clear boundaries between my personal time and study time, ensuring dedicated focus on my academic responsibilities. I prioritized my tasks, focusing on my educational goals first, and used effective time management strategies to balance my personal life and academic commitments. I also sought support when necessary, whether from academic advisors, counselors, or peers, to help navigate personal challenges that could potentially interfere with my education. Lastly, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise, a balanced diet, and adequate sleep, helped me stay physically and mentally fit to handle any challenges.
Overcoming personal or outside life distractions from my education involved setting clear boundaries between my personal time and study time, ensuring dedicated focus on my academic responsibilities. I prioritized my tasks, focusing on my educational goals first, and used effective time management strategies to balance my personal life and academic commitments. I also sought support when necessary, whether from academic advisors, counselors, or peers, to help navigate personal challenges that could potentially interfere with my education. Lastly, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise, a balanced diet, and adequate sleep, helped me stay physically and mentally fit to handle any challenges.
Laura Bugaj
Pricing
6
Answers
Naperville, Illinois
Updated
Laura’s Answer
Its great you want to prioritize school. its an important investment in your future. One thing that is helpful is to be really organized with your time and your mindshare. Set specific time blocks for school, studying, work, personal life etc. When you are in your "school" block of time, try to stay focused on that. Turn your phone off and set aside any challenges, or issues that are normally on your mind.
Jason White
Lead Product Manager- Network Security
80
Answers
Dallas, Texas
Updated
Jason’s Answer
Hi Valeria,
I've discovered a strategy that has significantly improved my productivity and focus - it's all about scheduling breaks, not just taking them when I feel overwhelmed. I used to take breaks only when I felt I couldn't go on anymore, which often meant I was already burned out.
But then, I started to plan my breaks in a way that would prevent this burnout from happening in the first place. This approach has made a world of difference for me. It could be a 30-minute break after work, or a quick pause between studying and attending a meeting.
By proactively scheduling these rest periods, I was able to avoid burnout and stay more focused and engaged in my work or studies. This method has been a game-changer for me, and I hope it can be for you too.
I've discovered a strategy that has significantly improved my productivity and focus - it's all about scheduling breaks, not just taking them when I feel overwhelmed. I used to take breaks only when I felt I couldn't go on anymore, which often meant I was already burned out.
But then, I started to plan my breaks in a way that would prevent this burnout from happening in the first place. This approach has made a world of difference for me. It could be a 30-minute break after work, or a quick pause between studying and attending a meeting.
By proactively scheduling these rest periods, I was able to avoid burnout and stay more focused and engaged in my work or studies. This method has been a game-changer for me, and I hope it can be for you too.
Rebecca Tang
Banking
1858
Answers
Hong Kong
Updated
Rebecca’s Answer
Thank you for your question. This is a question on your time management. Many students also struggling on their time. You would need to have a time management to help, eg, Google Calendar, your phone calendar, ms outlook,etc
Below are my suggestions:
1. Put down the time you need to classes first
2. Every day assign some time for your homework, projects, etc. and do some revision on the class material covered in the day
3. Make sure you have enough time to sleep and do exercise
4. You then assign some time for your hobbies and family & friends gathering
5. You may need to put more time for revision before assessment
Hope this helps! Good Luck!
May Almighty God bless you!
Below are my suggestions:
1. Put down the time you need to classes first
2. Every day assign some time for your homework, projects, etc. and do some revision on the class material covered in the day
3. Make sure you have enough time to sleep and do exercise
4. You then assign some time for your hobbies and family & friends gathering
5. You may need to put more time for revision before assessment
Hope this helps! Good Luck!
May Almighty God bless you!
Melissa Woodcock
Product Manager
5
Answers
Cumming, Georgia
Updated
Melissa’s Answer
It's fantastic that you're aware of how this could influence your educational journey. My suggestion would be to formulate a timetable, allocating specific periods for studying. Aim to designate these periods during times you're most alert and focused. Bear in mind that this might require some tweaking as you figure out what works optimally for you. External distractions can easily intrude, but you've made a commendable initial move in acknowledging this risk and striving to surmount it. Another crucial step is to avoid overloading yourself with academic work. Given that you're juggling other responsibilities, it might be wise to initially enroll in fewer courses as you get used to your new routine.
Wishing you all the best!
Wishing you all the best!
Claudio Alvarez
Contract Management Consultant
3
Answers
Lake Forest, California
Updated
Claudio’s Answer
Its difficult to keep personal matters from interfering with your school studies. Try to adopt a schedule where school hours are uninterrupted by personal issues. Communicate your schedule to people closest to you and hopefully you'll start to experience less interruptions. Wish you continued success and just remember that changing things can take time.
Dino Ubalde
Educator/Psychologist/Life Coach
204
Answers
Tracy, California
Updated
Dino’s Answer
Hello Valeria, how's everything going? We appreciate your effort to get in touch with us and we're eager to assist you with your current concerns. You've asked a fantastic question that resonates with many, including students and adults alike: What should be prioritized?
Reflecting on my own experiences, I can offer some insights that might help you navigate your situation. Here are some universal truths about life: (1) Tasks are never-ending (2) Each day brings new activities, in addition to those left unfinished from previous days (3) Deadlines are constant (4) Distractions are plentiful, including friends, family, hobbies, and more (5) Some things are simply beyond your control (6) Life often feels like a rat race, with numerous distractions along the way.
Here's how you might address these challenges: (1) Create a timeline to manage your tasks (2) Prioritize your tasks by labeling them as 1. Urgent, 2. Not Urgent, 3. For Future Days, 4. For Next Week - the labels are flexible and can be adjusted to your liking (4) Limit social events during school or work days, but always prioritize family time - remember, "family first" (5) Identify which tasks can be managed and which ones require assistance. Don't hesitate to ask for help when needed (6) Live life at a comfortable pace, savoring each moment. Life is short, but also remember that time is valuable (7) Learn to say NO to anything that might derail your timeline.
You're now ready to tackle your tasks. Best of luck!
Reflecting on my own experiences, I can offer some insights that might help you navigate your situation. Here are some universal truths about life: (1) Tasks are never-ending (2) Each day brings new activities, in addition to those left unfinished from previous days (3) Deadlines are constant (4) Distractions are plentiful, including friends, family, hobbies, and more (5) Some things are simply beyond your control (6) Life often feels like a rat race, with numerous distractions along the way.
Here's how you might address these challenges: (1) Create a timeline to manage your tasks (2) Prioritize your tasks by labeling them as 1. Urgent, 2. Not Urgent, 3. For Future Days, 4. For Next Week - the labels are flexible and can be adjusted to your liking (4) Limit social events during school or work days, but always prioritize family time - remember, "family first" (5) Identify which tasks can be managed and which ones require assistance. Don't hesitate to ask for help when needed (6) Live life at a comfortable pace, savoring each moment. Life is short, but also remember that time is valuable (7) Learn to say NO to anything that might derail your timeline.
You're now ready to tackle your tasks. Best of luck!
Yesenia Salazar
Profesor Primaria
30
Answers
Guayaquil, Guayas, Ecuador
Updated
Yesenia’s Answer
Greetings. I understand that you are looking for strategies to manage stress and personal challenges while prioritizing your education. Here are some strategies that could help you: Smart Planning: Organize your time and tasks effectively. This includes setting a realistic schedule and sticking to it.
Relaxation Techniques: Try techniques such as deep breathing, meditation or yoga to reduce stress and improve concentration.
Regular Physical Exercise: Exercise can help release tension and improve your mood.
Setting Limits: Learn to say no and set clear limits to protect your study time.
Social Support: Talk to friends, family or counselors who can offer you emotional support.
Quality Rest: Make sure you get enough sleep so your body and mind can recover.
Self-care: Incorporate activities that you enjoy and that relax you into your daily routine.
Remember that it is important to recognize your limits and not be too hard on yourself. We all face challenges, and finding a healthy balance is key. If you feel the stress is overwhelming, consider seeking professional help to develop a personalized plan that fits your specific needs. Cheer up! Fondly. Yesenia
Relaxation Techniques: Try techniques such as deep breathing, meditation or yoga to reduce stress and improve concentration.
Regular Physical Exercise: Exercise can help release tension and improve your mood.
Setting Limits: Learn to say no and set clear limits to protect your study time.
Social Support: Talk to friends, family or counselors who can offer you emotional support.
Quality Rest: Make sure you get enough sleep so your body and mind can recover.
Self-care: Incorporate activities that you enjoy and that relax you into your daily routine.
Remember that it is important to recognize your limits and not be too hard on yourself. We all face challenges, and finding a healthy balance is key. If you feel the stress is overwhelming, consider seeking professional help to develop a personalized plan that fits your specific needs. Cheer up! Fondly. Yesenia
Jason Shaw
Communications
1
Answer
New York, New York
Updated
Jason’s Answer
One thing I have learned - the hard way - is that you can't extract what happens outside of work/school from happens inside work/school. The trick is to learn to move with everything in an agile way. Obviously, time management is important; but you will frustrate yourself if you can't honor time limits - especially those that are arbitrary. The best thing to do is prioritize goals - and maybe establish smaller, achievable goals that you can check off your list. This will help you get into a rhythm, inspire confidence and you'll find yourself working more efficiently. Also - find ways to work smarter (and harder when you need to). Are you more productive doing homework at home or at the library? Have you made a list of tasks that are prioritized and reflect due dates (maybe keep a spreadsheet to identify where you are in a project and what is outstanding).
Most importantly - be rigorously honest with yourself. Sometimes stress in unavoidable and we become overwhelmed. There may be times that you can power through, but there may also be times that you need to set everything aside and practice self-care/recharge - you don't want to find yourself burned out. And never be ashamed to raise your hand and ask for help - you'll be surprised by the support you'll receive if you simply ask. :-)
Good luck!
Most importantly - be rigorously honest with yourself. Sometimes stress in unavoidable and we become overwhelmed. There may be times that you can power through, but there may also be times that you need to set everything aside and practice self-care/recharge - you don't want to find yourself burned out. And never be ashamed to raise your hand and ask for help - you'll be surprised by the support you'll receive if you simply ask. :-)
Good luck!
Sid Tripathi
Portfolio Management
2
Answers
Dallas, Texas
Updated
Sid’s Answer
You're perfectly aligned for long-term success and satisfaction. While the wealth of professional advice about organization, routines, relaxation methods, and more is incredibly beneficial, it can sometimes feel overwhelming to keep up with all these strategies.
I would urge you to take a moment each week to write down your thoughts on how well you've been applying these solutions. Conduct a time review of how you spent your hours in the past week and consider what you might change in the week ahead. Not every strategy will be useful, considering the current tasks that require your attention, and you might need to adapt on the fly. The key is to treat yourself with kindness and not to be overly harsh if you find the implementation challenging.
Good Luck!
Here's to your success!
I would urge you to take a moment each week to write down your thoughts on how well you've been applying these solutions. Conduct a time review of how you spent your hours in the past week and consider what you might change in the week ahead. Not every strategy will be useful, considering the current tasks that require your attention, and you might need to adapt on the fly. The key is to treat yourself with kindness and not to be overly harsh if you find the implementation challenging.
Good Luck!
Here's to your success!
Aishwarya Pai
25
Answers
Updated
Aishwarya’s Answer
Creating a routine can make a big difference. By setting aside specific times for studying, working, and relaxing, you can give your day structure and keep your tasks organized.
When it comes to your tasks, remember that not everything is urgent or important. Try to figure out which tasks need your immediate attention and which ones can wait. This will help you stay focused and reduce feelings of being overwhelmed.
It's also really important to look after your mental health. Practicing mindfulness and stress management techniques like meditation or deep breathing can help keep your stress levels in check. Regular exercise can also boost your mental health and help you focus better.
Don't forget to reach out for support when you need it. This could be a counselor, a friend, a family member, or a mental health professional. They can provide you with guidance, emotional support, and practical strategies to help you manage your challenges. Taking care of your physical health is just as important. Make sure you're getting enough sleep, eating healthily, and taking regular breaks to relax and recharge. And lastly, remember to set boundaries. It's okay to say no when you need to. Protecting your time and energy for the things that truly matter to you is crucial.
Remember, balancing your personal life and your education isn't always easy and it's okay to ask for help. Your mental and physical health are just as important as your academic success. Be patient with yourself as you navigate this journey.
When it comes to your tasks, remember that not everything is urgent or important. Try to figure out which tasks need your immediate attention and which ones can wait. This will help you stay focused and reduce feelings of being overwhelmed.
It's also really important to look after your mental health. Practicing mindfulness and stress management techniques like meditation or deep breathing can help keep your stress levels in check. Regular exercise can also boost your mental health and help you focus better.
Don't forget to reach out for support when you need it. This could be a counselor, a friend, a family member, or a mental health professional. They can provide you with guidance, emotional support, and practical strategies to help you manage your challenges. Taking care of your physical health is just as important. Make sure you're getting enough sleep, eating healthily, and taking regular breaks to relax and recharge. And lastly, remember to set boundaries. It's okay to say no when you need to. Protecting your time and energy for the things that truly matter to you is crucial.
Remember, balancing your personal life and your education isn't always easy and it's okay to ask for help. Your mental and physical health are just as important as your academic success. Be patient with yourself as you navigate this journey.
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
6342
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hello Valeria,
Overcoming Personal Life Challenges to Prioritize Education
To overcome personal or outside life challenges that may hinder your ability to focus on education, it is essential to develop effective coping mechanisms and strategies. Here are some steps you can take to ensure that personal issues do not interfere with your academic goals:
1. Establish Boundaries: It is crucial to set boundaries between your personal life and academic responsibilities. Allocate specific times for studying and completing assignments, and try to separate personal issues from your schoolwork.
2. Time Management: Develop a schedule or timetable that allows you to balance your personal commitments with your educational requirements. Prioritize tasks based on deadlines and importance, ensuring that you allocate sufficient time for both academic work and personal matters.
3. Seek Support: Don’t hesitate to reach out for support from friends, family, teachers, or counselors when facing challenges. Talking about your concerns can help alleviate stress and provide a fresh perspective on how to manage both personal and academic responsibilities effectively.
4. Practice Self-Care: Taking care of your physical and mental well-being is essential for maintaining a healthy balance between personal life and education. Make time for activities that help you relax and recharge, such as exercise, meditation, hobbies, or spending time with loved ones.
5. Stay Organized: Keep track of assignments, deadlines, and important dates by using planners, calendars, or digital tools. Being organized can help reduce feelings of overwhelm and ensure that you stay on top of your academic workload despite personal challenges.
6. Communicate with Professors: If personal issues are significantly impacting your ability to focus on schoolwork, consider communicating with your professors or academic advisors. They may be able to provide extensions, accommodations, or additional support to help you navigate challenging times.
7. Seek Professional Help: If personal challenges are affecting your mental health or well-being significantly, consider seeking professional help from a counselor or therapist. They can provide guidance, support, and coping strategies tailored to your individual needs.
By implementing these strategies and seeking support when needed, you can overcome personal obstacles and maintain a healthy balance between your personal life and educational pursuits.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used in Answering this Question:
American Psychological Association (APA) - The APA provides valuable resources on stress management, coping strategies, and maintaining mental well-being during challenging times.
Harvard Health Publishing - Harvard Health Publishing offers insights into the importance of self-care practices in managing stress and balancing various aspects of life effectively.
Education Corner - Education Corner provides tips on time management skills for students to prioritize tasks efficiently while juggling multiple responsibilities.
These sources were consulted to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the information provided in addressing the question posed by the user regarding overcoming personal challenges to prioritize education.
God Bless You,
JC.
Overcoming Personal Life Challenges to Prioritize Education
To overcome personal or outside life challenges that may hinder your ability to focus on education, it is essential to develop effective coping mechanisms and strategies. Here are some steps you can take to ensure that personal issues do not interfere with your academic goals:
1. Establish Boundaries: It is crucial to set boundaries between your personal life and academic responsibilities. Allocate specific times for studying and completing assignments, and try to separate personal issues from your schoolwork.
2. Time Management: Develop a schedule or timetable that allows you to balance your personal commitments with your educational requirements. Prioritize tasks based on deadlines and importance, ensuring that you allocate sufficient time for both academic work and personal matters.
3. Seek Support: Don’t hesitate to reach out for support from friends, family, teachers, or counselors when facing challenges. Talking about your concerns can help alleviate stress and provide a fresh perspective on how to manage both personal and academic responsibilities effectively.
4. Practice Self-Care: Taking care of your physical and mental well-being is essential for maintaining a healthy balance between personal life and education. Make time for activities that help you relax and recharge, such as exercise, meditation, hobbies, or spending time with loved ones.
5. Stay Organized: Keep track of assignments, deadlines, and important dates by using planners, calendars, or digital tools. Being organized can help reduce feelings of overwhelm and ensure that you stay on top of your academic workload despite personal challenges.
6. Communicate with Professors: If personal issues are significantly impacting your ability to focus on schoolwork, consider communicating with your professors or academic advisors. They may be able to provide extensions, accommodations, or additional support to help you navigate challenging times.
7. Seek Professional Help: If personal challenges are affecting your mental health or well-being significantly, consider seeking professional help from a counselor or therapist. They can provide guidance, support, and coping strategies tailored to your individual needs.
By implementing these strategies and seeking support when needed, you can overcome personal obstacles and maintain a healthy balance between your personal life and educational pursuits.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used in Answering this Question:
American Psychological Association (APA) - The APA provides valuable resources on stress management, coping strategies, and maintaining mental well-being during challenging times.
Harvard Health Publishing - Harvard Health Publishing offers insights into the importance of self-care practices in managing stress and balancing various aspects of life effectively.
Education Corner - Education Corner provides tips on time management skills for students to prioritize tasks efficiently while juggling multiple responsibilities.
These sources were consulted to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the information provided in addressing the question posed by the user regarding overcoming personal challenges to prioritize education.
God Bless You,
JC.
Michelle M.
Entertainment Industry
1913
Answers
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Hello, Valeria !
I understand what you've stated and the advice you are asking for, but to be honest, I could advise better if I knew if you are referring to high school or college. There's a big difference in the advice you will find helpful.
As for what you're experiencing, it sounds like you are reacting to the outside world and wish to make things a lot easier for yourself. It's good to feel emotions and react to important happenings and now is the time you probably want to make some changes. Whatever your studies are, you are not connected to them enough for them to dominate your mind and so it's natural that you are having the stress you speak of. You are right. School, whether it is high school or college, is what needs to be the priority and the thing that is focused on with your involvement. The first step is to recognize that there are issues and you have done that, so you need to take active steps to change things.
You cite work and personal issues as being the barriers for you to focus on your education. What do you think needs to be done and what are you willing to do to change it? That is a question you must ask yourself before you write out some goals and plans to change the way things are going. It's hard to generalize, but since I do not know the specific issues or work situation, I would advise you to really come to terms with starting some changes. If your workplace is uncomfortable or dreadful, look for a different job and do not quit before you find a new job. Reassess your circle of friends and figure out how you can change your social circle to more positive, supportive and delightful people. If it's high school and it's peer pressure that has reared it's ugly head, realize that it's important to be your authentic self and that peer pressure is a fleeting, insignificant thing. You can step away from it.
I have no idea what your situation really is, but what I do know is that you are in control of your life and can make changes that will continue to guide you and enhance your life. It's very important to make these progressive changes because behavioral habits and conditioning can remain and carry into your adult life and stay as barriers right at the age you would be starting a career. It's difficult, but do not give the power to other people to make you feel stressed or hassled. You can guide your life and choose the people that you want to be in your life. Letting everything get to you only causes stress, barriers and sadness as you have already learned.
I think that by setting some doable goals, taking some alone time to think about what in life is important to you, you can be well on your way to a smoother, more peaceful journey and be able to achieve academically. It's a choice you must make. Stress of the kind you speak of does not help you in any way. Of course, there is positive stress, too, but I mean the bad stress, drama and unnecessary worry and the anxious feelings that accompany it all. I also advise examining why you have kept the stressful things in your life. Think about what keeps you in the stress and what you should do to change that.
Thank you for reaching out. Different ways work for different people and this is your time now to discover the changes that would be best for you to make. You can do it !
I understand what you've stated and the advice you are asking for, but to be honest, I could advise better if I knew if you are referring to high school or college. There's a big difference in the advice you will find helpful.
As for what you're experiencing, it sounds like you are reacting to the outside world and wish to make things a lot easier for yourself. It's good to feel emotions and react to important happenings and now is the time you probably want to make some changes. Whatever your studies are, you are not connected to them enough for them to dominate your mind and so it's natural that you are having the stress you speak of. You are right. School, whether it is high school or college, is what needs to be the priority and the thing that is focused on with your involvement. The first step is to recognize that there are issues and you have done that, so you need to take active steps to change things.
You cite work and personal issues as being the barriers for you to focus on your education. What do you think needs to be done and what are you willing to do to change it? That is a question you must ask yourself before you write out some goals and plans to change the way things are going. It's hard to generalize, but since I do not know the specific issues or work situation, I would advise you to really come to terms with starting some changes. If your workplace is uncomfortable or dreadful, look for a different job and do not quit before you find a new job. Reassess your circle of friends and figure out how you can change your social circle to more positive, supportive and delightful people. If it's high school and it's peer pressure that has reared it's ugly head, realize that it's important to be your authentic self and that peer pressure is a fleeting, insignificant thing. You can step away from it.
I have no idea what your situation really is, but what I do know is that you are in control of your life and can make changes that will continue to guide you and enhance your life. It's very important to make these progressive changes because behavioral habits and conditioning can remain and carry into your adult life and stay as barriers right at the age you would be starting a career. It's difficult, but do not give the power to other people to make you feel stressed or hassled. You can guide your life and choose the people that you want to be in your life. Letting everything get to you only causes stress, barriers and sadness as you have already learned.
I think that by setting some doable goals, taking some alone time to think about what in life is important to you, you can be well on your way to a smoother, more peaceful journey and be able to achieve academically. It's a choice you must make. Stress of the kind you speak of does not help you in any way. Of course, there is positive stress, too, but I mean the bad stress, drama and unnecessary worry and the anxious feelings that accompany it all. I also advise examining why you have kept the stressful things in your life. Think about what keeps you in the stress and what you should do to change that.
Thank you for reaching out. Different ways work for different people and this is your time now to discover the changes that would be best for you to make. You can do it !
madison shupe
Strategic Communications
5
Answers
Washington, Washington
Updated
madison’s Answer
This is something that many of us well into our career experience too! Ways I have overcome this include:
Setting clear blocks of time dedicated to only work. I remove distractions (no phones!) and put on music to help me get in the zone. Once I complete the work product or the designated amount of time, I reward myself with 15 minutes of “free time”, which can include going on a walk, playing on my phone, etc.
If you let little tasks pile up, it can often be overwhelming and you might feel like you’ll never get it all done/wont have any social time. So if something will take you less than 3 minutes, don’t put it off! Just do it and get it out of the way. You’d be amazed at how much time, and stress, it saves you in the long run!!
I’ve also found that prioritizing tasks is also a great way to organize yourself, and can help reduce anxieties!
Setting clear blocks of time dedicated to only work. I remove distractions (no phones!) and put on music to help me get in the zone. Once I complete the work product or the designated amount of time, I reward myself with 15 minutes of “free time”, which can include going on a walk, playing on my phone, etc.
If you let little tasks pile up, it can often be overwhelming and you might feel like you’ll never get it all done/wont have any social time. So if something will take you less than 3 minutes, don’t put it off! Just do it and get it out of the way. You’d be amazed at how much time, and stress, it saves you in the long run!!
I’ve also found that prioritizing tasks is also a great way to organize yourself, and can help reduce anxieties!