Having trouble balancing everything....

FuturenurseBNH

I am a sophomore nursing major in college. I am a full time student and have a part time job. I am having trouble finding the energy to go to the gym and to cook healthy meals for myself. I am having difficulties balancing school, work, family, volunteering, and helping out around the house( I am the oldest of four kids, so i usually have a lot of responsibility). I just feel like there aren't enough hours i the day sometime

navyrigger46

I am a sophomore nursing major in college. I am a full time student and have a part time job. I am having trouble finding the energy to go to the gym and to cook healthy meals for myself. I am having difficulties balancing school, work, family, volunteering, and helping out around the house( I am the oldest of four kids, so i usually have a lot of responsibility). I just feel like there aren't enough hours i the day sometime

Welcome to adult life, just wait until you add kids on top of that.

Rigger

juggernaut1974

I am a sophomore nursing major in college. I am a full time student and have a part time job. I am having trouble finding the energy to go to the gym and to cook healthy meals for myself. I am having difficulties balancing school, work, family, volunteering, and helping out around the house( I am the oldest of four kids, so i usually have a lot of responsibility). I just feel like there aren't enough hours i the day sometime

Welcome to adulthood...and I mean that completely honestly.

I wish I could tell you it gets better, but it doesn't. Just wait until you add a spouse, a few kids, and trying to balance all of THEIR activities with your own.

I don't say this to discourage you. But at some point we all need to learn 1) how to sometimes say "no" and 2) set goals and priorities. Find the things that are most important to you and make them your priorities to the extent you are able to.

galprincess

I would advise dropping gym and working out at home or go running to college or work or cycle. Im a mum of 3 and lost 25lbs on here not stepping foot in a gym

seltzermint555

With school, work, and responsibilities at home it sounds like you do have your hands full. Volunteer work is important and commendable but if you truly don't have time for it maybe that could be cut back, for now? Focus on quality over quantity when it comes to family time (when other obligations take precedence at times).

I'm sure you're well aware that "adult life" (whether you have kids or not) involves a lot of responsibilities and balancing them all is a tricky process. You sound like an intelligent person so I doubt that is any big surprise to you. However, I will say that for me personally, the years of juggling full-time school and work were the hardest and "adult life" is comparatively easy. So maybe you will find the same to be true! You never know ;-)

The person who mentioned priorities is on target, though. Decide what is MOST important to you and focus on it.

WickedPineapple

I don't say this to discourage you. But at some point we all need to learn 1) how to sometimes say "no" and 2) set goals and priorities. Find the things that are most important to you and make them your priorities to the extent you are able to.

Agreed. Learning to say no and prioritizing are two of the most important skills as an adult. Sometimes we have to sacrifice the things we want to do. Other times, we sacrifice what others want us to do. It's all about balance.

RodaRose

What you describe is impossible for anyone. Sit down with a counselor at your school to set your priorities. Decide which two things are most important to you and drastically diminish or cut out the others. If you want to be successful in school for example, drop or diminish your role in the family responsibilities and volunteering. Say "no" to the things that are in the way of your goals.
Regarding exercise: it is not the biggest part of weight loss. Eating less will bring you to weight loss. Make your own breakfasts and lunches and eat a small amount of what is served at dinner.

WBB55

Volunteer work is important and commendable but if you truly don't have time for it maybe that could be cut back, for now?

This is probably a requirement of the program. I'm just guessing.

ActuarialChef

I struggle with this too. To get a handle on how much time I really have each day, I go through stages where I plan my days in google calendar. There, I can really see how much time I have for certain things.

My boyfriend (who has a psychology degree) and my doctor both suggested it (separately) when I was really stressed out last summer and had a mental breakdown. I'm not very good at explaining it, but it really helps when I feel overwhelmed. PM me if you want to see my calendar & how it's set up. Maybe it could work for you









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AliceDark

One of the things that really helped me during grad school was planning my meals for the following week over the weekend, then batch-cooking as much as I could on the weekend. I also relied really heavily on what I called "modular meals" -- things like rice bowls or salads, where the base was the same (1 cup of rice or two cups of greens, for example), then I'd add a protein, maybe some cheese and more veggies. The formula gave me enough variety so that I wasn't eating the exact same thing every day, but it was simple enough that I didn't have to plan completely different meals every week.

ActuarialChef

One of the things that really helped me during grad school was planning my meals for the following week over the weekend, then batch-cooking as much as I could on the weekend. I also relied really heavily on what I called "modular meals" -- things like rice bowls or salads, where the base was the same (1 cup of rice or two cups of greens, for example), then I'd add a protein, maybe some cheese and more veggies. The formula gave me enough variety so that I wasn't eating the exact same thing every day, but it was simple enough that I didn't have to plan completely different meals every week.

I do this too!

enterdanger

It really doesn't get any better once you graduate. I work 40-50 hours a week and have a 1 year old and a 3 year old. I normally go to the gym at 9-9:30 after the kids are in bed and it sucks.

If you have to do a lot of meal preparation for yourself and siblings, invest in a crock pot so you can dump a bunch of stuff in in the morning and not have to worry about cooking. I've got a pork shoulder going in mine right now with some OJ, lime juice, cumin, and chili pepper. We are having carnitas tonight. I even bought the cole slaw mix in a bag so I don't have to chop cabbage to put on top. Just lice an avocado and cut up some lime wedges. easy.

Try www.skinnytaste.com. You might have to dial back the heat on some of her crockpot recipes depending on the age of your siblings.

rachelrb85

I remember when I was in college I was super busy, just like you. Full time student, worked 20 hours/week, on the exec board for clubs, volunteering, etc. The major difference was I lived in campus, so I had no home responsibilities besides cleaning up after myself and feeding myself. My days are still busy, but just in a different way. There are never enough hours in the day, so you need to make the best of it.

Does your campus have healthy choices at the cafeteria? You could always eat there if you have a meal plan. If not, try to prepare healthy meals and snacks the day before to bring with you such as salads, sandwiches, wraps, hard boiled eggs, string cheese.

Does your campus have a gym? If you have a break in between classes or time before or after class, that's the perfect time to go. You can always work out from home too, there are some great videos on YouTube and FitnessBlender. You don't have to go everyday, just 3x a week or so if you really want to get gym time in. What you eat is the main reason of weight loss anyway.

sfbaumgarten

I am a sophomore nursing major in college. I am a full time student and have a part time job. I am having trouble finding the energy to go to the gym and to cook healthy meals for myself. I am having difficulties balancing school, work, family, volunteering, and helping out around the house( I am the oldest of four kids, so i usually have a lot of responsibility). I just feel like there aren't enough hours i the day sometime

Welcome to adult life, just wait until you add kids on top of that.

Rigger

:flowerforyou:

Lonestar5775

You're wise to keep your health a priority, if you lose your health, everything else becomes a struggle if possible at all. Maybe you can eliminate the gym and focus on eating healthy meals. It is possible to lose weight without exercising. Keep the exercise a matter of parking further from things and taking stairs when possible. You can work exercise in without it having to be a "scheduled" activity. Best of luck, you can do it, balance is exactly what it says, including the things that are most important and leaving behind those that aren't.

SueInAz

Trust me, I feel your pain. I work fulltime, go to school part time and have a home and family to maintain. I run a few miles three - four days each week and hit the gym to lift weights two times a week after work. I still have time to sit and relax with my husband a couple of nights per week and go to karaoke on Wed. nights with my parents. If I didn't have that down time, I'd go crazy.

If you are feeling overwhelmed then you are right, something has to give, even if only for a little while. Looking at your list, my suggestion would be to give up on the volunteering for awhile. There are times in life where you need to focus on YOU and this sounds like one of them. Once things are a little less hectic you can pick up the volunteer efforts again.

seltzermint555

Volunteer work is important and commendable but if you truly don't have time for it maybe that could be cut back, for now?

This is probably a requirement of the program. I'm just guessing.

ahh I'm naïve...never thought of that! For me volunteering has always been one of those things you do just because of a worthy cause.

ParkerH47

We've all been there! I totally understand where you are coming from. I agree about the need to prioritize. Find ways to incorporate exercise and healthy eating into your life instead of adding it as a separate "chore". If that makes any sense....

So try running to classes instead of walking. Try finding easy tricks in the kitchen that make cooking easier and make less elaborate meals. Yogurt & fruit, sandwich and carrot sticks, and pre packaged veggie stirfrys are not anymore time consuming then driving to the nearest mcdonalds or subway.

Hope that helps, but sometimes a positive attitude is the only thing that will change your view of a hectic lifestyle. The same crazy schedule gets a lot easier if you put a smile on your face and accept it for what it is.

RodaRose

Volunteer work is important and commendable but if you truly don't have time for it maybe that could be cut back, for now?

This is probably a requirement of the program. I'm just guessing.

You are right. In that case, she can drop something else.

amethyst7986

I'm 100% with the prioritizing! It has definitely helped me this last year and a half. I'm a single mom, work full time and full time student. I prepare my meals a head of time and if I can't make it to the gym for some reason I try to workout at home (lunges or squats while I brush my teeth, or vacuum, if I need a break from studying I do some jumping jacks or run in place) It helps relax and get some movement in.

Also, if you don't already have one buy a calendar-- I used to think that I could manage everything on my phone or tablet, but its much more work--writing it down works much better. Color coding helps me too

But the most important thing for me is making time for myself---don't burn yourself out--its ok to take 30 mins or even 15 mins of the day for you! Good Luck!

ActuarialChef

I'm 100% with the prioritizing! It has definitely helped me this last year and a half. I'm a single mom, work full time and full time student. I prepare my meals a head of time and if I can't make it to the gym for some reason I try to workout at home (lunges or squats while I brush my teeth, or vacuum, if I need a break from studying I do some jumping jacks or run in place) It helps relax and get some movement in.

Also, if you don't already have one buy a calendar-- I used to think that I could manage everything on my phone or tablet, but its much more work--writing it down works much better. Color coding helps me too

But the most important thing for me is making time for myself---don't burn yourself out--its ok to take 30 mins or even 15 mins of the day for you! Good Luck!

My google calendar is color coded! I have the following calendars: "menu", "fitness", "main", and "study" - each have their own colors.

I set up each event on the web, but view my calendar almost exclusively on my phone.

jerzeygirl619

I work full time and go to school full time. I also spend about 4 hours commuting each day. So I understand how the time commitment can be an issue. I enjoy doing squats when no one is looking, or bicep curls when I'm reading my homework. I also take a couple hours on Sunday and make freezer meals for the month. Yesterday, I made ground turkey, kidney beans and quinoa. Just put in in some tupperware and froze it. I made enough to last me about 10 meals. I also made chicken enchiladas and stuffed shells with tofu. These are all easy to make healthy foods (if you use the right ingredients) that freeze well.

Good luck to you.

PhotoBombed

Just do what you can here and there. Instead of the escalator, take the stairs. And pre-plan your meals. That way you can grab them in between the chaos that is life. Good luck friend!

TLContheGulfCoast

great advice from ActuarialChef!! I got the same advice from my family doc a few years ago after a major stressfest. His version, that I really liked, was that you don't even have to say no on the spot, just "let me think about it and get back to you," that alleviates the pressure of you being put on the spot and gives you a buffer of some time and distance to say no later - just remember to say no later ;-)

Momjogger

Take a good look at your schedule and prioritize. It is commendable that you are helping out your family, but you need to sit down with your parents and talk about your schedule and share with them your difficulties. As a responsible person, this is a good first step. See if someone else will step up to help out. Make a schedule that includes cooking and exercise like it is your job and stick to it. When people ask you to do something that conflicts with what you are doing for yourself, say No.

amethyst7986

I'm 100% with the prioritizing! It has definitely helped me this last year and a half. I'm a single mom, work full time and full time student. I prepare my meals a head of time and if I can't make it to the gym for some reason I try to workout at home (lunges or squats while I brush my teeth, or vacuum, if I need a break from studying I do some jumping jacks or run in place) It helps relax and get some movement in.

Also, if you don't already have one buy a calendar-- I used to think that I could manage everything on my phone or tablet, but its much more work--writing it down works much better. Color coding helps me too

But the most important thing for me is making time for myself---don't burn yourself out--its ok to take 30 mins or even 15 mins of the day for you! Good Luck!

My google calendar is color coded! I have the following calendars: "menu", "fitness", "main", and "study" - each have their own colors.

I set up each event on the web, but view my calendar almost exclusively on my phone.

my phone calendar worked great for me on days that I didn't have multiple things going on, but the view on my phone was rather small and made it hard to decipher what was what. However, I did recently switch to using the Google Calendar towards the end of last semester--I loved being able to sync with my Samsung acct and be able to access it on one device but it updates on all my devices! I also like how it will give me early morning, usually around 545 or 6am reminders of my day. And yes the color coding--- helps send my emails to separate folders so I can keep from deleting important school emails.

LolBroScience

Prioritize what's important.

ActuarialChef

great advice from ActuarialChef!! I got the same advice from my family doc a few years ago after a major stressfest. His version, that I really liked, was that you don't even have to say no on the spot, just "let me think about it and get back to you," that alleviates the pressure of you being put on the spot and gives you a buffer of some time and distance to say no later - just remember to say no later ;-)

Yes, I love this advice!

_HeartsOnFire_

If you can find a couple hours then you could try making meals for the week and then you have quick things to grab. Yesterday I made a huge pot of spaghetti. Then I divided it up into single serving containers. Grab and go! Wooo.

Maitria

I would personally stop going to the gym for now and focus on your diet instead of trying to do both. It sounds like you could be getting a decent amount of activity with your daily life, anyway.