Despite her deep passion for sports, Olympics champion Manu Bhaker never allowed it to hinder her academics. Known for her dedication and discipline, she balanced both seamlessly, excelling in her studies while dominating the shooting range. A political science graduate from Lady Shree Ram College of the University of Delhi, she had also made her way into the toppers list in Class 10. No wonder, she demonstrated excellent performance in Class 12 exams as well, scoring well in major subjects: 95 out of 100; 92 out of 100; and 93 out of 100. So, This fine act of balance is something to learn from, for sure.
Balancing sports and studies: How Manu Bhaker did this?
Born in February 2002 in Jhajjar, Haryana, Manu Bhaker’s journey is a compelling blend of academic and athletic excellence. She attended Universal Public Secondary School before earning an Honours degree in Political Science from the University of Delhi in 2021. Currently, she is advancing her studies in Public Administration at Panjab University. She attributes her success in academics to her teachers.
Bhaker’s tryst with sports began quite early, with participation in tennis, boxing, skating, and thang ta, a Manipuri martial art. Her exceptional talent earned her national accolades in these disciplines. Inspired by the Rio Olympics, Bhaker developed a strong passion for shooting at the age of 14, quickly making her mark in the sport. Despite facing setbacks, such as a malfunctioning pistol during the Tokyo Olympics, Bhaker has bounced back with stellar performances at the Paris competitions.
Top tips for students to balance passion and studies
Manu Bhaker’s story offers lessons on resilience, passion, and how strategic management can help in balancing passion and academic pursuits. Here are some expert-backed tips for students to strike the right balance and excel in both the fields.
- Prioritize and plan: Start by identifying what needs your immediate attention. Create a schedule that accommodates both your passion and academic responsibilities. Prioritizing your tasks can help you stay organized and avoid last-minute stress.
- Set realistic goals: Break down your academic and passion-related tasks into manageable goals. This will not only help you track your progress but also keep you motivated as you achieve each milestone.
- Time management: Allocate specific time slots in your daily routine for both your passion and studies. Stick to this schedule to ensure you’re making consistent progress in both areas without overwhelming yourself.
- Use breaks wisely: Utilize breaks between study sessions to engage in your passion. This not only provides a mental refresh but also ensures that you’re making time for what you love without compromising your academic performance.
- Stay disciplined: While it’s easy to get lost in your passion, discipline is key. Ensure that your passion does not overshadow your academic responsibilities. Keep a check on how much time you’re dedicating to each.
- Seek support: Don’t hesitate to ask for help from your teachers, mentors, or peers. Whether it’s managing a heavy workload or needing advice on balancing both aspects, having a support system can make a significant difference.
- Stay flexible: Understand that there might be times when your academics require more attention, such as during exams. Be flexible and ready to adjust your passion-related activities during such periods without feeling guilty.
- Reflect and adjust: Regularly reflect on how well you’re balancing both aspects. If you find yourself leaning too much towards one, adjust your schedule accordingly to ensure a balanced approach.
