Episode 16. Time Management for Busy Residents: Finding Balance + Self-Care Tips

In this episode of Your PharmD Bestie, host Alina Luk, PharmD, RPh, MBAc, is joined by Sofia Rodriguez, PharmD, MS, to tackle one of the biggest challenges in residency: time management. From juggling clinical responsibilities and presentations to keeping up with research projects and personal life, they dive into practical strategies to help residents stay organized, efficient, and balanced. Sofia shares her experience transitioning into residency—including moving across the country—and reflects on what surprised her most about the pace and demands of training. Together, they discuss how to build a sustainable routine, prioritize tasks effectively, and use helpful apps and tools to stay on track without feeling overwhelmed. The conversation also highlights the importance of self-care and recognizing early signs of burnout. Alina and Sofia offer actionable tips for checking in with yourself, setting boundaries, and maintaining your well-being throughout the year. They wrap up with advice for students preparing to start residency, focusing on how to set yourself up for success before day one. Whether you’re in the middle of residency or getting ready to begin, this episode offers relatable insights and practical tools to help you manage your time, protect your energy, and find balance in a demanding season.