Since the beginning of the pandemic and working from home more frequently, the work-life balance as we knew it has been thrown out of the window. Working longer hours where you eat, sleep and live has meant boundaries have been broken – this leads to burnout, fatigue and poor mental health.
Surely this leads us to question why on earth would you want to add another spinning plate to your life in the form of an apprenticeship? They are no small thing to undertake – would it mean working even longer hours, into the night and on weekends? Would I have to give up even more of my precious free time?
I certainly raced all of these questions through their mind whilst applying for an apprenticeship. But now, almost a year down the line , I can assure you it was the right choice. Plus it never took away any more time that it needed to. I have learned a multitude of new skills, as well as developed my own self confidence, whilst never feeling like I had to sacrifice my own personal time.
Why an apprenticeship?
I am currently partaking in a Digital Marketing Level 3 apprenticeship through Multiverse. My employer introduced me to them. Previously I had thought about going back to university to do a degree, but in retrospect I’m glad I didn’t. In reality there would be no true balance and I wouldn’t be making any money.
Working apprenticeships offer ‘Off the Job’ (OTJ) time to work on apprenticeship-adjacent work. This is about 20% of the working week. This work could include attending webinars, relevant meetings, workplace shadowing, or progressing with your own tasks such as your portfolio.
The best part about this OTJ time is that it HAS to be done during working hours. It actively encourages you NOT to work outside of your usual time. I initially panicked when I read this. I didn’t think it would leave me enough time to get things done, but realised it’s a great way to approach things. The best part is, you haven’t got to worry about that ‘homework fear’ when you finish your work day!
Focusing on YOU
Off the job time, while productive, is also time for YOU. It all counts towards your personal and professional development so make sure to use it to the best of your advantage. Attend that webinar you’ve been putting off, read that article that’s been in your pile for ages, FINISH THE DAY ON TIME. It’s a really great system that encourages both on and off time.
My biggest pro tip would be to dedicate a whole working day to OTJ time, rather than sporadic hours here and there. This way, you can really focus, as well as structure your week around it. Just make sure you chat to your line manager beforehand to make sure this arrangement is okay.
Managing the balance
Thinking about an apprenticeship is a big step to take, especially when working at the same time. Balance is key and putting yourself first is vital.
Working long hours, doing an apprenticeship AND maintaining you own life sounds like a lot. Reaching out and asking for help where you need it is a great place to start. Speaking to your line manager or apprenticeship coach can help gain some perspective on where you are at, as well as providing some much needed pastoral care when needed.
Using focus apps to manage your time is a great way of making sure you don’t get overwhelmed, as well as encouraging you to take regular breaks. A favourite of mine is Forest – growing a virtual tree during my focus time helps to keep me going. Also, if you get distracted it kills the tree, so the stakes are raised!
Ultimately the most important thing is doing what’s right for you. If you need to push back on work to do apprenticeship stuff, go ahead. If an important meeting comes up during your OTJ time, still attend. Be flexible and set boundaries – make yourself a priority and things will fall into place.
