I work full-time, Mon. - Fri., go to school 3 nights a week, finding it hard to juggle, but need to get things done. Any advise?

Tonette - posted on 09/12/2009

I have been going through this same thing, Benita.. There is hope though! Currently I am living with my boyfriend, my mom, and my four children. I work, go to school, do the housework, yardwork, etc. I finally had had enough. I went on strike for two weeks. I did absolutely nothing around the house. It got everyone's attention. So, we divyed out household chores to everyone. We also divyed out cooking detail, and lawnwork detail. This in itself freed up so much time. I was able to get my schoolwork done and have some time to myself to relax at the end of the day. I hope this helps! Good luck!

Maria - posted on 09/05/2009

Hello whatever you do dont give up with school. I have one daughter and at times i feel the same way. You can and will get threw this. Nothing is going to be easy, you have to work hard and i mean hard. Good luck with everything.

Aliya - posted on 08/28/2009

Keep your eye on the prize. I was pregnant, had an 8 yr old, worked OVERNIGHT, 4 nights a week. I thought the semester would never end. Now I'm returning to school with a baby and a 3rd grader, still BFing. But I'm keeping my eye on the prize. Praying, and knowing that it'll get easier as the time goes on.

Jami Aka JamiQuan - posted on 08/25/2009

I am so sorry you are having such a hard time. I would suggets perhaps you lower your load in school. As a student and mother I totally understand where you are coming from. I think you are doing a GREAT thing for you self and your children by going to school but going to school should not be killing you. ;0) Perhaps you could look into alternative based classes such as televised or online classes at your local community college? Good luck!

Roxanne - posted on 08/23/2009

I have been going to school for the last couple years and have 4 kids. Have been working full time for the last couple years as well. For a while was working two jobs. I also have a son with aspergers. It's been hard.



I actually about a semester ago decided to change my major and go from psychology (I was almost done with my bachelors) into nursing. When it comes down to it, I realized I really don't want to be a counselor, which is what I was aiming for.



I had been doing everything online which makes a world of difference but starting next month I need to do it in class. So not looking forward to that.



I get lucky because I work a graveyard shift so I can do a lot of my school work at work.



Truthfully there were a couple semesters that I plain failed because I was too overwhelmed.



Truthfully, I just want to be done with this and be done with school. But I still have a ways to go now that changed majors.

Stacey - posted on 08/15/2009

I will be somewhat in the same situation. I'm Going to school 3 times a week, working 4 times a week on 10 hour shifts. I will have to see about the Hubby and Son too! I'm determined to do it even though it will be tough until I get the hang of things. Stay focused... If it seems to be too much maybe cut back classes. Kids grow up fast and you don't want to miss out on that. School will always be around. GoodLuck!

Carrie - posted on 07/29/2009

i would def look into online classes like the others are suggesting. i started online classes back in jan and the conveinance of being able to be at home while still doing school has been GREAT! i also just take 1 or 2 classes a semester that way i dont get overloaded - happy mom equals happy kids!

Talia - posted on 07/27/2009

Relax! Relate! Release! Breath and then give yourself a pat on the back for being Super-mom and for pursuing your scholastic dreams. Now, I recommend delegating chores for the kids, preparing meals for the week on the weekend, but most importantly ensuring to taking proper care of yourself. Make it a point at least on day a month to do something good for yourself, like getting a manicure, pedicure or massage. It is essential to preserve the body while strenthening the mind. You are after all a role model to your children and other women as well.

Heather - posted on 07/16/2009

Making meals ahead is a great suggestion. It can also be a way to spend more quality time with your kids. Have them help you make a meal plan and shop together. You can even divide the list amongst the kids and shopping will get done quicker. And it gives them not only more time with you but a sense of responsibility.
And *yes* take time for YOU! Even if it's just a 10 minute bath with some bubbles and candles (no schoolbooks!) or getting a manicure, you have to take time for yourself to be better for the people you love!
Enlist friends to help. You'd be surprised who wants to help you, your friends know how hard you are working. Maybe they could take the kids to a movie while you relax or study.
Good luck, we're all in this together and we will make it out some way!

Lisa - posted on 07/15/2009

Hang in there and be encouraged!

Heather - posted on 07/15/2009

Good for you!!! You are setting a great example of hardwork and determination and your kids will admire you for your achievements. Are they helping you out around the house, with meals, etc..? My advice would be to get as much homework/studying done on the days you have school. This way, the other days are open for yourself and your kids. I used to wake up 2 hours early on test days to study while the kids were still asleep. And, just remember...you can do this and it will feel really good once you are done!

Cidalia - posted on 07/01/2009

It is not easy. Some days, I swear, I could just run for the hills, lol. What I do find helps is:

- Make sure your kids have some responsibility for chores around the home, even it's just keeping their rooms clean and tidying up after themselves in every room. You can also have one day a week where everyone works together and cleans the house room by room. Even for myself, I like to clean room by room so I feel like I'm getting something done when I see a room all nice and tidy.

- If your home needs it, spend a few minutes each day decluttering an area. It really helped me to declutter, clean, and get rid of things. The less clutter there is the easier it is to clean. Not to mention it really improves a person's mental state. Clutter causes stress.

- Last but not least, schedule some down time for yourself. Besides spending some down time with your kids, schedule some time for yourself to do something without the kids. Just knowing a break is coming up can help you get through it.

Tara - posted on 07/01/2009

Start delegating chores to your children. The eight yr. old can sweep and dust. The 12 & 16 yr old can wash dishes. The 16 yr. old can also prepare simple meals. This should relieve some stress. Prepare meals on weekends and the 16 yr old can re-heat dinner during the week.

Melanie - posted on 06/23/2009

Hang in there!! Online courses might help or Saturday classes if offered at your school. I know it is really hard being single,working, and going to school but in the long run it will pay off and your children will be proud of you!! Rest any chance you can get!!

Erin - posted on 06/14/2009

i would look into a college that offers accelerated classes or online. I attend a college in massachusetts that has accelerated classes so I am only in class on saturdays and it is great. there is a lot of work but it gives you the opportunity to complete your bachelors degree in 3 years. there must be something like that around where you live.

Hollie - posted on 06/13/2009

Whoa that sounds so familiar....I was doing the same thing last year while I was pregnant and had mine at home too. I had a meltdown...not trying to discourage you though, I'm sure it can be done. I had just had a baby May 28th and thought I would be just fine taking 2 online classes starting June 2nd?? What was I thinking...my husband was gone at work all the time and I think I got a touch of post partum depression. I'm better now but my advice would be take it easy. I know you are in a hurry to see the light at the end of the tunnel but it will come even if it's a little bit longer than you first thought. I ended up failing the online classes that could of been a piece of cake but I let myself get overwhelmed. Just take your time. Maybe take less classes this next semester. You can't roll the clock back on raising your babies but you can go to school anytime. Good Luck

Guggie - posted on 06/13/2009

online classes?