Work/Life Balance

[chatnoire]

I work 40+ hours a week, I’m taking 6 credits (one is a seminar, one is a studio) - I already get up at 5:30 in the morning, and I cut off all my hair so it takes less time to get ready. I leave the house at 7. That means I have 45 minutes to spend on work in the morning. I get home at 9 on M, T, W, and by that time, I’m too exhausted to sit

Comments

[sevenjades]

The first thing that caught my eye is that you're in two graduate programs. Why? Can you do one after you finish the other, and use the down time during the summer, perhaps, to catch up, take a break or complete some work projects (if your job permits such a schedule)?

Is it possible to change jobs for the time being, into one that will pay as well (or nearly) yet give you more time for your schoolwork? Or partner with another artist in such an arrangement that you will get more personal and academic time? Graduate degrees don't last forever, you'd always be able to go back to your preferred job when you finish.

Could you use your job for credit? My work frequently takes in writing students, and they get to use the job for credit towards thier degree. At the very least it might shorten the amount of time you spend in the program. You may have to alter a few details, but that would at least make things interesting. :)

I can't help any more - I've found for my own mental and physical well-being that I *have* to take time for myself. I'm just not someone who can push the way some here do. Good luck with your degree, though. :)