So you are a medical student, with all the stress that comes with it. But when the day finally ends for everyone else, whether it’s by 5pm, 9pm or 1am, for you, it’s time to refocus and get back to work on your other affairs. Whether it’s that you started a business, joined different committees or organizations, FAMSA GA is coming up, or you are doing extra work in another field, it can all feel like you are working two full time jobs. Here are some strategies that can help make your work-packed life easier and less overwhelming.

  • Plan out your week ahead of time

If you are not planning out your schedule, then things will keep springing up to ruin your productivity. You might struggle to meet deadlines and the constant surprise will keep you overwhelmed. It’s in your best interest to plan your week out and leave room for a little flexibility.

  • Learn how to say ‘no’

One of the greatest keys to success and sanity is to learn to say the word ‘no’. It’s time to come to terms with the fact that you have to prioritize. You can’t take on every task or do every activity. If you keep accepting everything that comes your way, you’ll keep spreading yourself and yet be unproductive. The aim is not to be busy all the time but to be productive.

  • Know your limits

This is in keeping with the second point. Whether its running a business or working, knowing your limit is going to be helpful not only to excel at your side hustle, you’ll also be able to stay on top of school work.

  • Keep the End Goal in Sight

Let’s face it— you’re probably not working what feels like a 100 or more hours per day because you’re bored and have nothing better to do with your time. Whatever your reason, this extra job (or jobs) is getting you just a little closer to that goal. So when you’re entrenched in the day-to-day of your multiple jobs, it’s important to keep that end goal in mind. So for now, remind yourself to look at your jobs as the means to that end— they’re temporary, and as long as you can power through for a little longer, you’ll reach your ultimate goal.

  • Give yourself some time off

You might not be able to give yourself a full day off every week but it’s important to have a few hours every week where you are completely off and at rest. This is to maintain your health and keep you refreshed so you can continue at your best.

At the end of the day, no matter what your side hustle is, the best thing is to put yourself as a priority. Even though you are working your hardest and chasing your goals, you can still continue to live life as well as you can.

BY TEMIDAYO ABASS