Being a full-time student while working can be difficult. I have had to navigate through college within these roles and figure out a way to balance my school work, social life and finances. In recently finding this balance, I have found that my life is more fulfilling.
Photo by Rebekah Rutledge
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$600.
That’s how much my bills cost each month.
I am currently a full-time student, taking 20 credit hours and working 35-40 hours a week (two different jobs). With such a busy schedule I have found that striking the balance of social, school and work is sometimes difficult.
Since I live in an apartment off campus, this comes with multiple bills to pay. Whether it is my rent, utilities, cable, Wi-Fi or renter’s insurance, these are monthly fees that I am required to pay as an adult in the “real world.” In addition to these I also have a car payment and gym membership to pay for as well.
While I am by no means complaining about my life, I do find that my ability to just “be a kid” is often pushed to the side, and with such a driven personality I feel that it is hard to allow myself to take a break.
As I have begun to sense this feeling of being off balance, I have made a change.
Instead of worrying about working as much as possible to save money, I have opened up my weekly schedule and created time for relaxation and friend time.
I have made this change over the last month and have been very happily surprised. Instead of feeling financially stressed I have felt peaceful and centered.
By allowing myself to find equilibrium, I have somehow always been able to pay my bills with ease.
I think by creating a more balanced lifestyle I have been able to enhance the time I am working and not only make more money in a shorter time, but enjoy my work more.
By listening to God and his direction, I have been blessed and supplied for. Finding this balance has changed my life.
Triston Buckley 
Emily Retzer