Tired of Feeling Like a Pugon? How to Maximize Your 24 Hours (Work + Rest Days!)

Ever feel like you’re running on fumes, parang isang sasakyan na palaging “Low Fuel” ang warning? Work, errands, family time – it’s like there’s never enough time in a day!

I feel you, kapitbahay! We hustle hard, pero we also need to rest and recharge para hindi tayo ma-burnout.

So how do we maximize our 24 hours, whether it’s a workday or a precious rest day?

Let’s break it down, parang nag-uusap lang tayo over a cup of Barako coffee:

The Power of “Bakit List” and Schedules: More Than Just a List, It’s Your Roadmap

First things first: We need a plan. Not just any plan, but a plan with SOUL.

Remember those days when you’re just going through the motions, parang zombie na lang? That’s a sign na you need to reconnect with your “Bakit List”.

1. Define Your “Bakit” (Your Why)

• Work: Why do you wake up every morning and face the work grind? Is it to provide for your family? Save up for your dream Boracay trip? Build a brighter future? Write it down.
• Exercise: Why sweat it out? Are you aiming for that superhero physique? Boosting your energy levels? Relieving stress? Write it down.
• Online Classes: Why spend your precious free time learning new skills? Is it to level up your career? Start your dream online business? Write it down.

Every task, every activity needs a clear “Bakit.” It’s your fuel, your motivation, especially when things get tough (and they will, because, well, life).

2. Schedule Your Way to Success:

Now that you’ve got your “Bakit” list down, it’s time to build your schedule. And no, I’m not talking about some rigid, military-style plan. We’re going for a “Filipino Flexible” approach.

• Workdays:
  • Prioritize: What are the MUST-DO tasks that will make the biggest impact on your work goals? (Remember your “Bakit” for work). Schedule those first.
  • Time Blocking: Instead of just listing tasks, allocate specific time blocks for each. This helps you focus and avoid that “Where did my day go?” feeling. For example:
    • 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM: Focus on that big presentation (remember, your why is to impress your boss for that promotion!).
    • 11:00 AM – 11:15 AM: Coffee break! Reward yourself with a tasty pan de sal and some Barako coffee.
    • 11:15 AM – 1:00 PM: Respond to urgent emails, file reports (the “Bakit” here is to stay organized and efficient!).
• Rest Days: Yes, even rest days need a little structure! This isn’t about cramming in more activities, but about being intentional with your time.
  • Planned Fun: Schedule in activities you genuinely enjoy, things that make you feel recharged and happy. This could be:
    • Sunday: Family day! Go for a picnic at Luneta Park, watch a movie marathon, or try out a new kare-kare recipe together.
    • Saturday: Me time! Catch up on your favorite teleserye, read a book, or finally try that new coffee shop everyone’s raving about.
  • Don’t Overbook: Leave room for spontaneity and rest. You don’t need to have every minute planned out. Sometimes, the best moments are the unplanned ones.

3. The “Tapos Na” Notification System: Celebrate Small Wins!

Remember that feeling when you finally cross something off your to-do list? It’s like winning a mini-lottery, right? We’re going to amplify that feeling!

• Give Yourself a Pat on the Back: Every time you complete a task, especially a challenging one, give yourself a moment to acknowledge your achievement.
• Small Rewards: Schedule small rewards into your day, tied to completing specific tasks. It could be:
  • Finish that challenging report? Time for 15 minutes of scrolling through funny memes!
  • Completed your workout? Reward yourself with a refreshing mango shake!

Remember: These small wins add up and keep you motivated!

Avoiding the Burnout: Spice Up Your Routine and Listen to Your Inner Lola

Ever tried a new ulam and loved it so much you ate it for days straight? Then suddenly, parang ayaw mo na ulit makita for a while? Same goes for our schedules.

1. Add Some Variety to Your Week:

• Monday: Start your week strong with an invigorating exercise session. Feeling that endorphin rush will set you up for a productive week.
• Tuesday: Feed your mind! Dedicate some time to reading a book, listening to an inspiring podcast, or taking an online course to gain new skills.
• Wednesday: How about something for the soul? Try a yoga class, meditate, or spend time in nature. Even a quiet 30 minutes reflecting can do wonders.
• Thursday: Connect with loved ones! Have dinner with family, call your best friend, or write a heartfelt letter to someone special.
• Friday: TGIF! Time to unwind and enjoy some leisure activities. Catch a movie, try a new restaurant, or simply relax at home.

The point is: Don’t be afraid to mix things up! Variety keeps things interesting and prevents burnout.

2. Listen to Your Body and Mind:

Your body is like your favorite tito – it’ll give you warning signs when it’s had enough.

• Rest is Not a Luxury, It’s a Necessity: Just like your phone needs to recharge, so do you. Schedule in time for quality sleep, relaxation, and downtime.
• Don’t Ignore the Warning Signs: Feeling constantly exhausted? Irritable? Losing interest in things you used to enjoy? These are signs you might be heading for burnout. Listen to your body and adjust your schedule accordingly. It’s okay to say no to extra commitments and prioritize your well-being.

You’ve Got This!

Maximizing your 24 hours is not about cramming in as much as possible. It’s about being intentional with your time, prioritizing what truly matters, and making space for both productivity and rest.

Remember, you are not a machine. You are a human being capable of amazing things. So, go out there, make the most of your 24 hours, and live a life that’s both fulfilling and balanced. Kaya mo yan!