Making Time for Your Personal License: A Guide for Busy Candidates
For many aspiring pub owners and hospitality professionals, obtaining a personal license is an essential step toward achieving their goals. Yet, one common concern often holds people back: time. Between juggling work, family, and other commitments, it can feel impossible to find room in your schedule to apply for and secure a personal license.
The good news? With some smart planning and a clear approach, you can fit the process into your busy life without feeling overwhelmed. Here’s a practical guide to help you make time for your personal license and move closer to running your dream pub.
Step 1: Understand the Process
Before diving in, take time to familiarize yourself with the personal license application process. It typically involves:
Completing a Level 2 Award for Personal License Holders (APLH) qualification.
Submitting an application to your local licensing authority.
Undergoing a basic Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check.
Understanding these steps and their associated timelines will help you plan effectively. The course itself usually takes a day, and the entire process, including paperwork, can be completed in a matter of weeks.
Step 2: Choose a Flexible Training Option
One of the best ways to fit the APLH qualification into your schedule is to select a training option that works for you. Many providers offer flexible formats, including:
One-day classroom courses: Ideal if you can dedicate a single day to in-person learning.
Online courses: These allow you to study at your own pace, making it easier to fit around your existing commitments.
If time is tight, consider breaking the online course into smaller, manageable chunks. For example, you could complete one module in the evening or during a lunch break.
Step 3: Use Your Downtime Wisely
Look for pockets of free time in your day that could be used for studying or completing paperwork. These might include:
Early mornings or late evenings: Dedicate 30 minutes to an hour to studying before or after your regular activities.
Lunch breaks: Use this time to review course materials or research local licensing requirements.
Weekends: Set aside a few hours on a Saturday or Sunday to focus on your application.
Small, consistent efforts can add up quickly and make the process feel less daunting.
Step 4: Delegate and Automate
If you’re balancing multiple responsibilities, don’t hesitate to delegate or automate tasks in other areas of your life to free up time. For example:
At work: Delegate non-critical tasks to colleagues or team members.
At home: Use meal prep services, cleaning apps, or childcare assistance to lighten your load temporarily.
By outsourcing time-consuming activities, you’ll create more space in your schedule for working on your personal license.
Step 5: Set Clear Goals and Deadlines
Break the application process into smaller milestones and set deadlines for each one. For instance:
Week 1: Research training providers and book a course.
Week 2: Complete the APLH qualification.
Week 3: Gather documents for the DBS check and application.
Week 4: Submit your application to the local licensing authority.
Having a clear timeline will keep you focused and motivated, making it easier to track your progress.
Step 6: Seek Support
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, remember that you don’t have to go through the process alone. Reach out to:
Colleagues or mentors: They may have tips or advice for managing the process efficiently.
Training providers: Many offer support services to help you complete your application and understand the requirements.
Family and friends: Let them know about your goals so they can offer encouragement or assistance.
Step 7: Focus on the Long-Term Benefits
When time feels scarce, it’s easy to lose sight of the bigger picture. Remind yourself of why you’re pursuing a personal license in the first place. Whether it’s the dream of running your own pub, advancing your career, or creating a community hub, keeping your end goal in mind can help you stay motivated.
Obtaining your personal license is a short-term commitment with long-term rewards. By investing a few hours now, you’re setting yourself up for future success and independence in the hospitality industry.
Step 8: Celebrate Small Wins
Finally, celebrate each step you complete along the way. Whether it’s finishing a training module or submitting your application, recognizing your progress will keep your spirits high and your momentum strong.
Fitting the personal license application process into a busy schedule might seem challenging at first, but with the right strategies, it’s entirely achievable. By understanding the process, choosing flexible training options, and making small but consistent efforts, you can obtain your license without disrupting your life.
Remember, this is an investment in your future. With determination and planning, you’ll soon be one step closer to making your pub ownership dreams a reality. So why wait? Start today and take the first step toward a rewarding and fulfilling career in the hospitality industry