How to Work Two Full-Time Jobs

Working two full-time jobs may not be your idea of the perfect lifestyle, but it may be necessary to meet your financial obligations and to adequately provide food, shelter and clothing for your family. Ideally, couples both work a full-time job to eliminate the need for either to work two jobs, but there are times when this is not possible. Single parents simply do not have that option and often resort to working two jobs just to make ends meet. Although it is never easy, there are things you can do to make it more manageable.

Things You'll Need

• Schedule

Instructions

1. Schedule your time carefully. Work will take up the majority of your time, but if you can schedule the hours appropriately you can still manage to set aside a few hours a week for relaxation and family time. Shift work makes it possible to work one job during the day and another during the evening.

2. Arrange to work the second job on one of your scheduled days off. If you routinely have the weekend off, schedule the second job for one of those days. If you work a double shift you can get in 10 to 16 hours in one day. Reserve the second day for family and personal needs.

3. Choose jobs that do not require any take-home work. If you can leave your work behind when you walk out the door, you will have more time to relax at home. Be cautious of jobs that require extensive physical or mental work. The ideal is to find a job that you love and that you find relaxing, or one that energizes you. If you enjoy the work you do, it will be less taxing on you.

4. Consider seeking a work-at-home job for your second income. Freelance work can often be done at your convenience. You may find it enjoyable to spend a few hours doing work you enjoy once the kids are in bed.

5. Seek a second job (providing child care to friends and neighbors, sewing or providing services in your local area) that will allow you to take your children with you. This type of work can be fun and enjoyable for the whole family and allows you to spend time with your children while you work.

Tips & Warnings

• Schedule time for rest and relaxation. Stick to a regular sleep and meal schedule.

References

• Surviving Second Jobs