When I applied to post-graduate studies, knowing I would continue to work full-time, I had anticipated feeling overwhelmed, with little time to enjoy, but I never thought it would lead to my absence from the blog. If you haven't already noticed, I've only managed to publish one post prior to this for the month of October, and it pains me. But, as anyone with multiple commitments will understand, there are times when you must focus your attention on the tasks that require immediate response before partaking in any side-hobbies or passion projects. And unfortunately, that's exactly what happened this October. I was sure that I could manage it all, while still visiting with friends, relaxing on Sunday mornings, and enjoying hours spent watching my favourite reality show, Project Runway. But boy, was I wrong. 

[ALL PHOTOS BY ELAISHA JADE]

With the onset of midterms, I was thrust into a situation where I had to put blogging on the back burner and focus my efforts on studying amidst a hectic work schedule. Now on the other side of my exams, I've taken a step back to determine how I could have managed my time more appropriately and stayed on top of my game. 

Here are a few of the things I've committed to for the future, to keep it 100 in all endeavours:

1. Schedule Time Wisely – I've always been one to keep at least 10 separate calendars in iCal, but after all my years blogging, does it surprise you that I've only just started maintaining an editorial calendar? It's true. Up until this past month, I was never concerned with my ability to deliver a post, but with such an overwhelming schedule I must now keep track of every aspect of my 'business' and personal life to ensure I maintain my commitments. I've not only set up editorial calendars for my personal blog, and freelance work, but I've even started to book in 'downtime' for myself. It's only been a week in the works, but I've already noticed a difference in my ability to stay focused on completing the task at hand, instead of becoming polarized from a lengthy to-do list. 
    
2. Be Smart With Social Media – Despite classifying myself as an idiot when it comes to social media, I've somehow been nominated for Best Social Media Content at the upcoming P&G Beauty Awards. This has put added pressure on me to ensure I stay on top of my social media game. Enter Buffer, the one-stop scheduling app for just about every social media platform out there. By simply putting in one hour/week on scheduling content I'm able to stress about one less thing on my day to day. And the app also provides analytics for your various social media platforms, including the best times to post, to ensure I'm being smart about when and how I schedule my content. It's honestly like having an assistant, whom you don't have to pay!
    
3. Don't Procrastinate – I'm the worst for this! It's like there is a constant voice telling me 'it can wait', but lately, I've been focused on the concept of mind over matter; and it's actually working. Pushing myself past the initial thought of 'I'll get to it later' has been lighting a fire under my ass and before I know it I've accomplished 10/15 things and it's only 12:15pm, and I look in the mirror and I'm like, who am I? But the again, maybe that's just a signature of my addictive personality. Either way, I'm getting shit done, and it feels good.
    
4. Be Passionate – Last, but not least: let there be passion. I cannot express how difficult it is to write, or truly do anything in life when my heart is not in it. So being selective in what I review, shoot, and post is essential to maintain any sort of momentum. When I'm not passionate about what I'm doing, what I'm writing, who I'm with, etc.. it's impossible for me to be truly present. However, when I'm 'in it', when the content is inspiring, and when the product and photos tell a story, the words flow like honey. And that's my sweet spot. That's exactly where I need to stay.

What are some of your tips for establishing balance and focus?
Let me know in the comment section below. 

Shown Wearing / Denim Jacket, Garage; Cardigan, American Apparel; Denim Shirt, The Gap; Boyfriend Jeans, Garage; Suede Booties, Aldo; Backpack, Aldo; Glasses, Sunglass Spot; Rings, Pandora.