Balancing work and education is tough in Educational Leadership. How can you manage both effectively?

I am a firm believer that if you want it done, you have to schedule it. Calendar the time you need for your learning. When possible break down assignments so that they are more manageable, this is most important when is the most busy time at school (when is it not :)). I have also found success using the Pomodoro method, in terms of using the time best to learn and adding the time in between other unrelated tasks.

I recently read an excellent book “The happy teacher habits” by Michael Linsin and one chapter talked about time (highly recommend to read). A former teacher and captain in the army came up with a law called Parkinson Law named after him. Simply put if you give yourself an hour to do a task then you will fill that hour to complete it (even if it doesn’t require an hour). The law states that limiting the time you have will increase your focus on completing the task. Make sure the time assigned to either work or education will help maintain focus and not added time that that can be invested into something else.

Keeping your workspace and study area organized, can save time and reduce stress. Don’t hesitate to seek support from colleagues, mentors, or family members. Having a support system can provide encouragement and assistance when needed.

I find that setting aside 15 minutes every morning for my own education while I’m having a morning coffee before work helps me not only get the time I need, but enjoy that time.

There is a saying that goes, "If you fail to plan, you plan to fail." I have been a working student for most of my career (currently pursuing a Master's in HR Management, while being a teaching professional), and nothing has helped me more than realistic planning and then sticking to that plan religiously. Also, creating tight focus of bubbles, especially while studying, can promote efficiency and avoid distractions. By working overtime on weekends and completing the upcoming week's tasks in advance, you can free up valuable time during weekdays to dedicate to your educational pursuits.

Balancing work and education in educational leadership can be challenging but achievable. First, time management is crucial. Create a structured schedule that allocates specific time slots for work tasks and study sessions. Second, delegate effectively. Trust your team with responsibilities, which not only empowers them but also frees up your time. Finally, prioritize self-care. Short breaks and activities you enjoy can recharge your energy and maintain productivity. With these strategies, managing both becomes feasible.

Personally, I rely on mentors, colleagues, and professional networks for guidance and collaboration. These relationships provide diverse perspectives, constructive feedback, and practical insights into managing responsibilities effectively. Engaging with supportive communities helps me stay motivated, navigate challenges, and continuously improve my skills.

I prioritize regular exercise, mindfulness practices, and adequate sleep to manage stress and enhance productivity. Additionally, I schedule time for hobbies and activities that recharge me mentally and emotionally. Setting boundaries, delegating tasks, and practicing time management techniques also contribute to a healthier work-life balance. By prioritizing self-care, I sustain my energy levels, remain focused on professional goals, and foster a positive work environment for myself.

Calendars are my go-to for time management—they keep my schedule organized and ensure I never miss a deadline or meeting. Appointment apps streamline communication, making it easy to schedule and confirm meetings on the fly. And when it comes to enhancing collaboration and learning, video conferencing tools are invaluable—they enable real-time discussions, virtual classrooms, and mentorship sessions regardless of physical location. By leveraging these tech tools effectively, I've found a smoother path to balancing my professional responsibilities and educational pursuits.