How to Stay on Track While Taking CPE Courses and Working Full-Time

1) Make a schedule and stick to it

One of the best ways to balance a full-time job with CPE courses is to make a schedule and stick to it. This will cut late nights studying, which defeats having a study schedule. Allot specific times when you need to sleep, eat, work on your CPE courses, and take breaks.

2) Set aside time for each activity

Write out all the things you need to do each day, including taking CPE courses, working full-time, and eating dinner. This technique is pretty straightforward, but it can increase your effectiveness.

Rather than trying to fit studying around your job schedule, set aside dedicated time to learn. At the same time, make sure you divide enough time to complete all your work-related tasks as well. This means setting specific times for your job, studying, and other activities. It can be challenging at first, but it’ll become more natural. This way, you control your time and can better manage it.

3) Take breaks when you need them

If you don’t take breaks when you need them, your mind will lose focus. This can result in a significant decrease in productivity and frustration. Make sure that you take a short break every thirty minutes or take a more extended break once or twice per hour.

Breaks are essential, especially when you’re studying for an extended period. But don’t let these breaks derail your schedule. Instead, take five minutes to stretch, get a glass of water, or eat some food before getting back to studying.

4) Keep yourself accountable

It’s essential to find a way to keep yourself accountable. Without an incentive, it can be hard to stay motivated and complete your studies. You could create a rewards system or join an online community of people taking CPE courses.

5) Be assertive with your employer about taking CPE courses

If you are working full-time while taking professional development classes, be confident in telling your superiors that you need some at work. For example, you can ask for a one-hour lunch or leave work early to take a CPE course. This way, your company knows that it’s important to you and will allow some flexibility for handling them.

6) Ask work about flexible hours

If taking full-day classes, ask your employer if they would be willing to give you flexible hours. For example, you can work from home on Tuesdays or Thursdays so that those days are available for your courses. This way, you won’t have to stress about missing classwork and keep your schedule consistent.

Find the Balance

Working a full-time job while taking CPE courses is possible, but it will take some work. Follow the ideas that work for you, and feel free to get creative with them! It may be difficult at first, but soon enough, you’ll find yourself balancing both