Balancing Work and Play Large

Tips for Youth - Balancing Work and Play

October 23, 2023

​Getting Started

Earning money is a great feeling. And spending your money is the easy
part, right? Just make sure that while you are having fun, you are also
being responsible. Creating a budget can help you get more out of your
money and can help you reach your long-term goals. 

While you
may be earning money, you may still need some extra help with some
things and need to connect to local resources. You can find
transportation and other resources to help you succeed.

It is
important to focus on being a great employee but also it is important to
think about the future, your goals, and how you can utilize your
experience and skills to build your resume and focus on your success now
and in the future.

Spending Wisely

Now that you have started working, paychecks will start coming in. It
can be tempting to spend your paychecks on fun things. While it's okay
to do that, it is very important to plan what you want to achieve with
your money. Trying to spend wisely can be a balancing act but with these
tips, it can be easier:


  • Try to figure out how much money you will be earning, then use
    a plan or budget to decide what you need to get out of your paychecks.
  • Use these money management articles to help you learn about:
  • Make sure you are giving yourself some freedom and doing
    something fun with your hard earned money. It will be easier to stick to
    your budget  if you reward your hard work!

Work hard, stick to your budget, and have fun reaching your goals!

Supportive Services

When working to reach your career, training and employment goals, there
may be some times when you need a little more help. Illinois workNet has
resources you can turn to.

Supportive services include financial assistance, tips on
loans and paying for school, transportation, public assistance, and
more.

Use these resources to help keep you on track and help you reach your goals.


If you need specific assistance there are locations
throughout the state of Illinois that offer services that can help you.
You can find locations that offer WIOA services and other sites where

staff are able to assist you
in finding resources for your job search, career preparation, and
referrals for work support such as financial aid, child care, and much
more.


Get started and find locations near you with the
Illinois workNet Service Finder!

Focus on Success

Whether you are working, going back to school, or both, it is important
to plan ahead. You want to keep building your resume and your skill set
as you move forward in life.

Volunteering is a great way to earn skills and experience while
padding your resume. You can also use it to find new interests. Learn
more about volunteering with these articles:

The information, guidance, and knowledge you gained from this
experience can make your next job search easier. Before your next
search, be sure to:

  • Update your resume with any new skills and experience you have gained.
  • Practice interviewing. Before you interview, you should ​have a
    refresher to be prepared for any situation. Plus, your skills and
    experience have changed. This means your answers to interview questions
    have probably changed, too.


Use your skills and interests, career exploration, and training program
information to guide you through the process to land your dream job and
work on building your resume and skills while on the path to success.

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