What is the secret to juggling two jobs, one full time and one part time?

SGT Jamell Culbreath — Thu, 28 May 2015 12:07:38 -0400

Response by SCPO David Lockwood made May 28 at 2015 12:12 PM

SCPO David Lockwood — Thu, 28 May 2015 12:12:25 -0400

Like anything you have to manage your time. Making sure one doesn't interfere with the other.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made May 28 at 2015 12:41 PM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 28 May 2015 12:41:33 -0400

There are several key elements I found. Some more challenging that others.
-Be clear which job is priority. Typically, the part-time job will understand what they are and be clear as to their needs. The Full-time job will typically always expect 101% at all times.
-Constantly open lines of communication with supervisors regarding schedule planning and changes.
-Planning planning planning. Know where you need to be when, and have fail-safes to make sure you're there (reminders, back-up rides, etc.)
-Some employers will expect you to fail at maintaining a lifestyle with two jobs. Constantly shine as an employee and reassure your employers as often as you can that you plan to be a valuable member of their team indefinitely.
-BIG ONE!!!!: Let go of any hope of having a real-life all to yourself. You work, eat, and sleep now. Anything else that may happen is a bonus that you shouldn't cling to.
-Let your loved ones and family know why you're busy. Ask them to be patient with you, especially when you're just getting into the rhythm of constantly working.

This was my experience, anyway. If I think of more I'll post them.

@jamell culbreath

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made May 28 at 2015 1:07 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 28 May 2015 13:07:00 -0400

One of the most important things is to ensure that you are proficient in what you do. Being prior service is definitely going to help with this.

Second is time management. Once again, you are prior service, and this should not be too challenging.

Third is to make time for yourself. If you are working 60+ hours a week, you are going to burn out fast. Make sure that you have time to enjoy those things you like to do. It will make all the difference in the world. With this, you can always set up a time/day where you are completely off of work. Take your full time job you have, and use that a baseline for when you work. Then, tell your part time that you "cannot work on this day."

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made May 28 at 2015 1:26 PM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 28 May 2015 13:26:51 -0400

All previous comments are spot on. You really have to learn to pace yourself. We're so used to running full throtle all the time, and if you run this way for 60+ hours a week then you may struggle. Patience will help you out a lot and do your best to make your job fun. I prefer to be busy with something, so when I have down time I work on another business opportunity. I pepper in some time hanging out with my family and playing cards! I wish you nothing but the best! Please let me know what I can do to help!

Response by SGT Chris Birkinbine made May 28 at 2015 1:30 PM

SGT Chris Birkinbine — Thu, 28 May 2015 13:30:29 -0400

How much do you like sleep? My worst time ever was juggling full time school, full time job, and part time work study. Time management is absolutely necessary. Also being goal oriented. Why are you working two jobs? Concentrate on what your gaining from it. Also be aware of what you are losing, and be sure the benefits are always greater than the sacrifices.