How I Juggle Blogging, School, and Side Hustles in Kenya

By: Makahil Maalim

Whenever I tell people I’m a full-time student, a blogger, and still manage a side hustle, they look at me like I’m superhuman. But the truth is—I’m just a young Kenyan trying to create opportunities, build a future, and stay afloat in today’s challenging economy. If you’ve ever wondered how to balance school, blogging, and side hustles in Kenya, this is my personal story and the lessons I’ve learned along the way.

One key lesson I’ve discovered is the importance of time management and prioritization. Juggling multiple commitments means being intentional about how I allocate my time. I’ve learned to set clear goals for each area of my life and create a structured schedule that accommodates my studies, content creation, and work responsibilities

This approach not only helps me stay organized but also ensures that I make the most out of each day. By managing my time effectively, I can keep stress levels manageable while leaving room for growth and new opportunities.

Why I Started Blogging in the First Place

Blogging wasn’t something I had planned years ago. It all started when I realized that my experiences and knowledge could help others—especially Kenyan students like me who are constantly searching for ways to make money online, learn new skills, and build sustainable careers. My blog became my creative outlet, a place to share tips, stories, and ideas that matter to young hustlers in Kenya.

In fact, one of the most-read posts on my site is How I Turned My Side Hustle Into a Full-Time Career, where I opened up about how online opportunities changed my life. That post made me realize the power of consistency and sharing value with others.

The Kenyan Student Reality: Fees, Pressure, and Hustling

Life as a Kenyan student isn’t easy. School fees keep rising, family responsibilities don’t pause, and the pressure to succeed can feel overwhelming. For me, having a side hustle in Kenya wasn’t an option—it was a necessity. My blogging journey merged perfectly with freelancing opportunities, giving me not just extra income but also a chance to learn real-world digital skills.

Amidst the whirlwind of lectures, assignments, blogging deadlines, and client work, I often found myself in a relentless juggle that was anything but smooth. There were nights when I pushed myself to the brink, pulling all-nighters fueled by caffeine and determination, only to feel the weight of exhaustion settle in. I missed out on cherished social gatherings, watching friends create memories while I buried my head in textbooks or pecked away at my laptop. There were even moments of desperation when I submitted assignments mere minutes before the clock struck deadlines.

Yet, through a landscape of trial and error, I gradually discovered a balance that harmonizes my passions and responsibilities, allowing me to navigate this chaotic journey more gracefully.

How I Manage My Time Between Blogging, School, and Work

In the fast-paced world of student hustlers in Kenya, the one key factor that can determine success or failure is undoubtedly time management. It serves as the foundation upon which I build my daily life and ambitions. To give you a glimpse into my approach, I meticulously plan my day, breaking it down into manageable segments that prioritize my academic commitments while leaving ample space for my entrepreneurial pursuits.

Each hour is purposefully accounted for, allowing me to strike a delicate balance between study sessions, work responsibilities, and much-needed rest. This strategy enables me to navigate the challenges of student life with confidence and efficiency, ensuring that I can address each obligation without feeling overwhelmed.

1. Creating a Simple Routine

I don’t complicate my schedule. I use a simple Google Calendar and a notebook to block out study time, blog-writing time, and client work. The key is knowing what needs attention today, not overwhelming myself with a long-term to-do list.

2. Setting Weekly Blogging Goals

Instead of writing randomly, I plan at least one big post per week. For example, I wrote Freelancing 101: A Beginner’s Guide during a quiet weekend, which gave me the freedom to focus on school during the week.

3. Prioritizing Assignments Over Hustles

While my passion for blogging and side hustles fuels my creativity, I firmly believe that education remains my top priority. I make it a point to tackle assignments ahead of schedule, allowing myself the luxury of time to delve deeper into the material. This approach not only enhances my understanding but also helps me stay organized and reduces stress.

On occasions, I even transform these academic tasks into captivating content ideas. For instance, a research topic I explore might spark inspiration for an engaging blog post about in-demand skills for freelancers. This way, I can seamlessly blend my learning journey with my online endeavors, creating valuable resources for my audience while reinforcing my own knowledge.

4. Outsourcing When Possible

When I get overwhelmed, I outsource small tasks—like logo design or quick edits. Platforms like Fiverr make it easy and affordable, freeing up my time for what really matters.

The Challenges I Face

Navigating the intricate balance of these three worlds is far from flawless. There are days when I find myself utterly exhausted, as if every ounce of energy has been drained from me. The steep costs of internet access in Kenya loom large, making connectivity a constant challenge, while unpredictable electricity blackouts disrupt my workflow and leave my plans in disarray.

At times, the demands of schoolwork feel insurmountable, piling up like a mountain before me. Yet, rather than succumbing to despair, I’ve embraced the spirit of adaptation. Each challenge has become an opportunity, teaching me invaluable lessons in resilience, igniting my creativity, and instilling a sense of discipline that guides me through the chaos.

Why Blogging Has Been Worth It

Despite the sleepless nights, blogging has been one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. Not only has it given me an income stream, but it has also connected me with other Kenyan freelancers and opportunities I wouldn’t have found otherwise. For instance, writing Why You’re Not Getting Freelance Jobs brought a lot of engagement from readers who felt seen and understood.

Tips for Kenyan Students Who Want to Start Blogging or Side Hustles

• Start Small: Instead of overwhelming yourself with the pressure to accomplish everything at once, focus on taking manageable steps. Initiate your journey with a single blog post or secure one client. This approach will provide you with valuable experience and build a solid foundation for growth.
• Leverage Free Tools: Before committing your hard-earned money to paid tools, explore the wealth of free applications available. Platforms like Google Docs for writing, Trello for task management, and Canva for graphic design can greatly enhance your efficiency and creativity without breaking the bank.
• Stay Consistent: Consistency is key in the world of blogging. Even dedicating time to publish just one post per week can lead to significant growth over time, accumulating a loyal readership eager for your insights and content.
• Network: Connect with like-minded individuals by joining student or freelancer communities on platforms such as WhatsApp or Facebook. These networks can not only provide you with valuable knowledge but also expose you to potential gigs and collaborative opportunities.
• Be Patient: Remember that success in blogging and freelancing is a gradual process. It’s unlikely you'll achieve wealth overnight, but with consistent effort and determination, the fruits of your labour will eventually materialize.

Final Thoughts

Navigating the intricate balance of blogging, academics, and side hustles in Kenya presents a formidable challenge—but it is indeed achievable. My journey has been a tapestry woven with late nights illuminated by the glow of my laptop, tight deadlines that loom like storm clouds, and sacrifices that often feel like heavy weights on my shoulders. Yet, interspersed within this struggle are moments of profound growth, burgeoning independence, and a steadfast hope for a brighter future.

To you, dear students and aspiring entrepreneurs who may be reading this, I want to impart this crucial message: you don’t have to pit education against ambition. Armed with the right mindset and effective strategies, you can seamlessly blend both pursuits into a fulfilling and enriching experience.

Discover the potential of your side hustle today! You never know—what starts as a small venture could evolve into a fulfilling career that you are truly passionate about. Just like my own journey, where my side project is blossoming into my main profession. Take the leap and start nurturing your passion; it could change your life!

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Further Reading:

• How Side Hustles Are Fueling Kenya’s Youth Economy (Business Daily Africa)
• Forbes: Balancing School and Business for Success

If you’re also juggling school and a side hustle, I’d love to hear your story in the comments. Let’s inspire each other!