How to strike balance bewteen work, studies & family?

Question

I'm a Software Engineer with bachelor's degree in computer science. I'm also a student of masters (in computer science). I'm unable to divide my time between my job, studies & my family (i'm single & living with my parents). Most of my time is consumed by my job (i've got a habit of working late).

Can anyone help me in finding the solution to this problem?

Answer 1

I have a similar problem and ill be watching this. Thanks for asking.

Answer 2

Oh yes I know a lot about this one! I juggle a lot too and balance is the key word!!

You mentioned that you have a "habit" of working late. Not that you have to but that it is a habit. Now this is a bad choice that you cant seem to break.

The only way to beat a habit is to replace it with something else. Think of what you would like to be doing more of - and instead of working late make a committment to doing this.

It could be a way of procrastinating from your studies too? Make a set time to do the things you need to do. Eg. Monday night - exercise night, Tuesday night - night off to do anything, Wednesday night - family time, Thursday night - study, Friday night - catch up with friends, saturday - study, Sunday - church and complete rest day!

That is just an example. You will feel so much better once you motivate yourself to spend the time you need to be spending on the important things in life. Only work what you need to and no more. Work is not as important as family, church or your health.
Yes study is important, but only do what you can manage, if you can do less subjects then even if it takes a bit longer it might be better.

These are only my suggestions!
Good luck. You certainly sound like an intelligent capable person, You will be fine.

Answer 3

You need to be congratulated for realizing that you need to strike a balance between work, studies and family. Job and studies indeed rob a good amount of your time. I think your parents are aware how busy you are. If not do speak to them so that they don't make extra demands on you.

You need to have a fairly good time table and set aside specific timings for job, study and family. Work late only when needed. Keep a few hours of the day for your studies and stick to it. Begin to spend not quantity but quality time with your parents. Organize your time well by setting priorities.