Many people will come to a point in their working life when they will want to study again – either to upskill in their current area of work, or to try something new, with the hope of a career change. Over time I’ve developed habits to help me ‘survive’ studying while working a 9-5 job. So if you’re considering dipping into studying, or have already taken the plunge, read on to see how I’ve managed the balance.

I’ve written about writer’s block before, where I’ve suggested practical tips to get writing again. Sometimes, however, you may just need that quick burst of motivation to keep you going. That inspiration that reminds you why you are a writer to begin with.

There are debates over whether writer’s block is an actual condition or just an excuse for procrastination; yet I think all writers will agree that there are times when putting words on a page is as painful as a tooth extraction.

Podcasts are a great way of learning while getting other tasks done at the same time (think boring housework, driving, walks/bike rides etc). Here are some regular ones I listen to, which focus specifically on writing, and always have me itching to get to a pen and paper or my laptop once an episode has finished.

As always the illustrious Neil Gaiman offers wise and inspiring words, this time from his popular commencement speech at The University of the Arts in 2012.