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But all the hard work will be well worth it if Latics further extend their impressive winning run against Notts County at the JJB Stadium (kick-off 3pm).
Jewell, who is in line for his second successive manager of the month award, said: "This has been a busy time for us. But we are professional people who have to work when a lot of people are out enjoying themselves.
"We will hopefully get our rewards and the chance to enjoy ourselves at the right time – the end of the season – and until then we will not be taking our foot off the gas.
"The lads have worked very hard all season and right throughout the Christmas period, with Sunday being their first day-off for quite a while.
"Mind you, it's a hard life having a day off from being a footballer isn't it!"
Another three point haul against County would leave Latics in a strong position at the top of the table ahead of a nine-day break from league duty.
They turn their attention to the FA Cup on Saturday when they visit Stoke City in the third round, before returning to Division Two action a week on Friday at promotion rivals Bristol City.
Jewell has injury concerns over Jason de Vos and Steve McMillan ahead of County's visit but he does have Jason Jarrett available after suspension.
Skipper de Vos had an x-ray on his foot yesterday after taking a knock in Saturday's win over Swindon.
And McMillan is still being troubled by a ricked neck he suffered at Port Vale on Boxing Day.
Ian Breckin stands-by to replace de Vos while Peter Kennedy will continue at left-back against one of his former clubs should McMillan again be sidelined.
Midfielder Jarrett served a one-match ban on Saturday and his return leaves Jewell with something of a selection dilemma.
Paul Mitchell took his place in the heart of the midfield and performed admirably alongside the in-form Tony Dinning.
Jewell said: "Mitch came in, did well, and he just gets about the job.
"Everyone knows what their job is when they come into the team and they get on with it.
"Jason Jarrett has had an excellent season and him being available again is another nice selection poser for me."
Although visitors County have struggled to find their form this season, Jewell envisages a hard contest against them to welcome in 2003.
Jewell added: "Notts County will give us a tough game and although they got beat 1-0 at Plymouth on Saturday, they won't be fearful of coming here.
"We will have to treat them with as much respect as we show everybody.
"And if our lads give everything they have got, there will certainly be no complaints from me.
"This squad has got the effort, desire and togetherness – something which wasn't there last season – so I'm happy about that."
Article from the Wigan Evening Post.