For me, it's all about intentional time management and leveraging project work as a learning opportunity. Here are a few strategies that help me balance deadlines and learning: Prioritizing core skills first – Instead of trying to master everything at once, I focus on what’s immediately useful for my projects. Experimenting in downtime – Even 10 minutes of playing around with a new tool outside of work helps me build confidence without pressure. Leveraging automation & shortcuts – Many software have hidden features that speed up workflow. Learning those first keeps me efficient while still learning. Of course, applying new skills in real projects and sharing knowledge with the team makes a huge difference too.

My Approach I break learning into small daily tasks and apply new skills directly to my projects. This keeps me productive while improving my expertise. Regular check-ins help me stay aligned with my team and refine my workflow.

With experience in the industry, true learning comes from contributing to the community, engaging in discussions with industry leaders, and understanding customer requirements.

In the animation industry, balancing deadlines with mastering new software requires strategic time management and adaptability. Prioritize learning tools that directly enhance your current project. Set realistic, incremental goals, focusing on mastering essential features first before expanding your knowledge. Apply new skills immediately within the context of the project to reinforce learning. Collaborating with colleagues and sharing insights not only accelerates the process but also fosters a supportive team environment.

Prioritize tasks, allocate dedicated learning time, and use online tutorials for quick upskilling. Leverage shortcuts, automation, and team collaboration to stay efficient without compromising deadlines.