Mastering Work-Life-Study Balance: A Guide for Aspiring Teachers
| by Sbahle Mkhize
Balancing work, life, and study can feel like a juggling act for many adult learners, especially those who are changing careers or going back to school after an extended time off. This can seem even more challenging when you’re also working full-time or have family responsibilities.
Moreland University understands these challenges and their programs are designed to support candidates on their way to thriving, fulfilling teaching careers — including finding the balance that works best for their unique situations. As a Moreland alum, here are some strategies and program features that helped me effectively manage work, life, and studying while I was in the TEACH-NOW program:
Prioritize Time Management
Effective time management can help you maintain work-life-study balance without feeling overwhelmed, and while still being able to enjoy every day. Here are some strategies I (and the other members of my cohort) found helpful:
- Prioritize tasks: Separate your to-do list into urgent, important, and “nice to finish (but not immediately essential)” tasks. Focus on what needs to be done immediately and plan the rest accordingly.
- Create a study schedule: Set aside specific time slots each week dedicated to studying, attending classes, and completing assignments. Treat these slots like a professional meeting — non-negotiable and important. Keeping the time slots consistent and avoiding rearranging them (when possible) will help you stay on track with your coursework without it overlapping with the other priorities in your schedule.
- Set realistic goals: Avoid overloading yourself. Set achievable study goals for each session, whether it’s completing a reading assignment or working on a section of a project. Accomplishing smaller tasks will keep you motivated, and these completed “chunks” will add up to larger achievements that can help you succeed in your program.
- Take breaks: Balancing work, study, and life does not mean working non-stop. Be sure to take short breaks between study sessions to recharge and avoid burnout.

Take Advantage of the Flexibility of 100% Online Programs
One major feature of Moreland’s programs is their flexibility. All of Moreland’s courses are 100% online, meaning you can attend classes and complete assignments from the places that are most convenient and comfortable for you. This setup is a great help when it comes to finding time to fit studying into your schedule. Whether it’s early in the morning before work, during a lunch break, or late at night, you can access course materials like lectures and work on assignments whenever your schedule allows. And because there’s no need to commute to a physical classroom, you’re also saving valuable time that you can use to relax or study!
Engage in Moreland’s Supportive Community
Being a candidate in one of Moreland’s global cohorts means being part of a community of educators who understand what it means to balance working, studying, and personal life. Your peers in your program — whether it’s the TEACH-NOW certification preparation or a master’s degree pathway — will collaborate with you on group projects, but they can also be some of your biggest advocates and sources of encouragement. Many cohort members go beyond connecting through discussion forums to form study groups and text message chats so that they can share and receive emotional support from peers throughout their learning experience.
As a Moreland candidate, you are also supported by instructors who are seasoned educators. They know the challenges of juggling multiple roles and are always willing to provide guidance and support, and they are genuinely invested in your success.
Remember: you’re not alone on this journey.
Keep in Touch with Your Self-Care
Between work, studying, and living your daily life, it can be easy to overlook your personal well-being. That’s why it is important to remember to make self-care a priority, especially when you notice yourself getting caught up in deadlines and responsibilities. Whether it’s exercising, spending time with loved ones, or simply enjoying a hobby, self-care activities can reduce your stress and improve your focus. These self-care tips for teachers are great for people who are already working in a classroom, and they can also be adapted for aspiring teachers!
Find the Right Balance with Moreland
Getting a perfect work-life-study balance can seem like a challenge, but with the right strategies, support, and mindset, it is very achievable and can help your teaching dreams become a reality.
Remember, balance is not about perfection — it’s about finding what works best for you and making adjustments along the way so that you can be your best self in every area of life.
Moreland emphasizes a flexible, candidate-centered approach so you can pursue your educational goals without missing out on your professional or personal responsibilities. Start your journey to a well-balanced career in education by applying to a program or requesting more information today.