Time management is possibly the best skill I learned and refined as an athlete in college. Playing at the DI level, having to balance classes, study hall, training, competitions and more was a full-time job. Throw in the opportunity to earn money on the side? That can feel like a lot. For high school and college students, juggling sports, academics, and a part-time job can feel overwhelming. Yet, mastering this balance is essential for success both on and off the field. Whether working to help pay bills, gaining experience, or managing NIL deals, here’s how to stay on top of your commitments while keeping your well-being intact.
Balancing Sports, School, and a Part-Time Job Effectively
Set Priorities. Understanding what matters most for you is the foundation of balance.
- School First. Remember, education lays the groundwork for future opportunities. Excelling in school ensures you stay eligible for sports and opens doors for long-term career growth.
- Sports as a Commitment. For athletes, sports teach discipline, teamwork, and resilience—skills that extend beyond the field. Treat your practices and games with the same seriousness as your classes.
- Work as a Tool. View a part-time job as a stepping stone to achieving your goals. Whether it’s to help pay bills, gain experience, or support NIL opportunities, prioritize jobs that align with your career aspirations.
Use Tools to Manage Time. Balancing multiple responsibilities requires efficient time management. Here are some tools and strategies to help you stay organized:
1. Use a Planner. A physical planner can help you visualize your week and plan around classes, practices, and work shifts. Block out specific times for studying, training, and personal tasks. This year, I’m using the Forvencer 2025 Planner, which has been clutch! It’s a hard cover, lightweight planner that includes a monthly spread with large date boxes for appointments, agenda, important dates, etc, as well as weekly two-page spreads for writing space for more detailed planning.
2. Leverage Digital Calendars. Apps like Google Calendar, Microsoft Outlook, or Apple Calendar can help you stay on top of your commitments. Set reminders for important deadlines, schedule recurring events like practices, and color-code activities to easily differentiate between school, sports, and work.
3. Try Task Management Apps. Apps like Todoist, Asana, or Notion allow you to break down tasks into manageable steps and set deadlines. Use them to track assignments, workouts, or NIL-related deliverables.
4. Set Alarms and Timers. Use your phone or a productivity tool like Pomodoro Timer to focus on tasks in short bursts of 25-30 minutes, followed by a short break. This method helps you stay focused and prevents burnout while studying or working.
5. Prioritize Downtime. Schedule time to recharge just as you would for other responsibilities. Rest is essential for maintaining peak performance in all areas. Tools like Headspace or Calm can guide you in mindfulness exercises to manage stress effectively.
Additional Time Management Tips
- Plan Your Week in Advance. Set aside 30 minutes every Sunday to review your upcoming week. Update your calendar, list tasks, and ensure you’ve allocated enough time for studying, training, and work shifts.
- Avoid Overloading Your Schedule. Choose part-time jobs with flexible hours that accommodate your school and sports commitments. NIL-related work, like social media campaigns or small brand collaborations, can be ideal since they often allow for remote and self-paced efforts.
- Batch Similar Tasks. Group similar tasks together to save time. For example, dedicate one study session to reviewing for all your classes or combine your workout routine with NIL content creation (e.g., filming training sessions).
- Say No When Necessary. It’s okay to turn down opportunities or shifts that don’t fit your schedule. Learning to say no is key to avoiding burnout.
Certain Pitfalls to Avoid
- Procrastination. Putting off assignments or work tasks can lead to last-minute stress and lower performance. Stick to your schedule and tackle priorities early.
- Overcommitting. Taking on too many responsibilities can stretch you too thin, impacting your grades, athletic performance, and overall well-being. Be realistic about how much you can handle.
- Ignoring Health. Physical and mental health are essential. Ensure you’re getting enough sleep, eating nutritious meals, and staying hydrated to perform your best in all areas.
By setting priorities, managing your time effectively, and using tools like planners and digital calendars, balancing sports, school, and a part-time job is not only possible but also rewarding. These skills will not only help you succeed now but also prepare you for life after school and sports. Remember, your ability to manage your commitments with discipline and focus is what will set you apart and lead to long-term success.