My cat Yuki doesn’t want me to go to work.
Or at least, that’s what it looks like in this photo. 🐱
But it made me pause and reflect:
It’s sad that we have developed into a society wherein there seems to be no option but to prioritize work so much that we don’t live anymore.
Imagine if that cat were a child longing for a parent.
And when that child grows up distant, we wonder why.
Years ago, I was that person—working long hours, sacrificing sleep, health, and personal time to please employers.
But the people we should be nurturing—our families, friends, communities—are often outside the office.
For those with faith, like me, this also includes serving God and fulfilling church duties. ⛪
I believe we can be excellent employees without sacrificing:
✔ Worship services
✔ Family dinners
✔ Catch-ups with friends
✔ Hobbies that bring us joy 🎨🎸
We just need to be intentional with our time and energy.
Because once time passes, we can’t get it back. 🕰️
And our energy is not unlimited—unlike superheroes in movies. 🦸♀️
Sometimes, that means saying “No” to:
– After-hours “team buildings”
– Ad hoc tasks that distract from your core work
– Overtime caused by poor planning
– Added responsibilities that don’t reflect in your payslip
How to decline respectfully? That’s a whole other post. 😉
Yes, we develop friendships, or even deeper relationships, at work.
But attendance in social events should not be more important than good, honest work.
That said, I also respect that companies have the right to define their culture.
And we, as employees, have the right to choose where we thrive best.
I’m grateful to be in a company—and to have leaders—who respect personal boundaries and value output over hours. Now, I pay it forward. 🙏
I don’t believe in time management. ⏳
Time isn’t like money—
You can’t save it, multiply it, or earn it back.
Once it’s gone, it’s gone.
What you can manage is your commitment. ✨
Choose responsibilities and relationships that fuel your energy, protect your attention, and reflect your values.
If accepting more responsibility or pursuing a bigger purpose is a form of courage, then so is protecting your energy and time for what truly matters. 💛