Being a virtual assistant has opened up a whole new world of flexibility and fulfillment for me, and I'm excited to share a peek into my daily routine with you! If you’re craving a career that lets you be your own boss and tailor your workday to your energy levels, stick around—I’ve got some tips and a course that might just change your life! 🌟
Mornings
Email + Product Management for Clients
My day begins bright and early around 6am (because that's when the dogs feel is an appropriate time to have breakfast and go for a morning walk). Once I've made my breakfast, I start with email management. Handling emails for four different clients can be quite a task, but I've developed a system that keeps everything organized. Each client has unique needs, so I prioritize based on urgency and importance. I start by scanning for anything critical, like meeting requests or urgent tasks. Then, I categorize other emails into folders for easier follow-up. This focused burst of activity helps me start the day on a productive note and ensures my clients (and their customers) are never kept waiting. By dedicating my morning to this task, I use my most focused hours efficiently, making the rest of the day smoother. Plus, it feels great to start off by ticking off a major part of the to-do list!
Mid-Morning Workout
After tackling emails, I switch gears and head into my mid-morning workout around 10 a.m. This break is essential for recharging my energy levels. Whether it’s a quick HIIT workout, a yoga session, or some strength training, getting my body moving helps clear my mind and prepares me for the creative tasks ahead. Exercising in the morning has been a game-changer—it not only boosts my mood but also keeps me focused and productive throughout the day. Plus, it’s a great way to break up the day, ensuring I’m not glued to my desk for hours on end. By prioritizing fitness, I’m able to maintain a healthy work-life balance, which is one of the biggest perks of being a virtual assistant.
Cooking Lunch
Lunchtime is another cherished part of my daily routine. I love cooking, so I take the opportunity to whip up something delicious and nutritious for my hubby and me. I usually spend about 30 minutes to an hour in the kitchen. It’s a moment to step away from screens, stretch a bit, and indulge in my favorite hobby of cooking. Cooking lunch at home also saves money and allows me to experiment with new recipes, adding a bit of fun and creativity to my day.
Afternoons
Creative Social Media Planning
First things first, another walk with the doggos comes before sitting back down on my desk, of course!
Afternoons are when my creative juices really start to flow, making it the perfect time for social media planning. Crafting social media calendars involves a mix of strategy, creativity, and a keen eye for trends. I dive into content creation, brainstorming posts that will engage audiences and align with my clients' brands. This includes drafting captions, selecting or taking photos, and designing graphics. Each platform has its nuances, so tailoring content to fit Instagram, Facebook, or LinkedIn keeps things interesting and dynamic. This kind of creative work is not only fulfilling but also provides a nice balance to the more structured tasks of the morning. By the end of the afternoon, I've usually got a solid plan in place that my clients can approve and schedule, setting the stage for a successful social media presence.
Product Photography
Another exciting part of some of my afternoons is dedicated to product photography. This task combines my love for visual storytelling with the need for high-quality images that captivate audiences. I set up a small studio space at home where I can control the lighting and background, ensuring each product shines in the best possible way. I do this for two of my clients; an author and a meat farmer who sells his fabulous hormone-free goodies across the US (PS - hit me up if you're interested ;)) This hands-on activity allows me to express my creativity while providing valuable content for my clients. Plus, it's incredibly satisfying to see the final, polished images. By the end of these sessions, I've usually got a collection of stunning visuals ready to boost my clients' marketing efforts.
Email Management Wrap-Up
As the day winds down, I circle back to email management to ensure everything is in order before I sign off. This second round of email checks allows me to follow up on any ongoing conversations, respond to late-afternoon queries, and tidy up my inbox. It’s crucial to make sure nothing slips through the cracks, especially with four different clients relying on me. I also use this time to organize tasks for the next day, flagging important emails and setting reminders. This wrap-up session not only keeps my clients happy but also helps me start the next day with a clear plan. By tying up these loose ends, I can end my workday feeling accomplished and prepared. It's a small but significant step in maintaining a smooth workflow and ensuring consistent communication, which is key in the life of a virtual assistant.
Balancing Work and Life
Afternoon Nap and Dog Walks
Balancing work and life is crucial, and my afternoon nap and dog walks are key to maintaining that harmony. After lunch and dog walks, I often take a quick nap to recharge. This short break helps me reset and approach the rest of the day with renewed energy. It's all about listening to my body and what it needs, which is one of the perks of being a virtual assistant. Besides the nap, I make sure to walk my dogs three times a day. These walks are not just for them—they're for me, too. Stepping outside clears my mind and boosts my mood. These small breaks throughout the day help keep me balanced and focused, making me more productive when I return to my desk.
Coffee Shops for the WIN
One of my favorite ways to balance work and life is by going to coffee shops. These little excursions provide a much-needed change of scenery. A nearby coffee shop offers the perfect environment for a quick productivity boost or a relaxing pause. Okay, to be honest, they also have wine, so after 4pm I usually order a glass of red, which is an extra nice incentive.
I just love the noise of a coffee shop and the smell of freshly brewed coffee. These breaks help me reset mentally, ensuring I don't burn out from long hours at home.
Evening Cooking and Relaxation
As the day winds down, I turn my focus to evening cooking and relaxation. Cooking dinner is one of my favorite ways to unwind after a busy day. The act of chopping, stirring, and tasting is almost meditative, allowing me to shift gears from work mode to personal time.
After dinner, I make it a point to engage in relaxing activities. Whether it's reading a book, watching a favorite cooking show, or simply hanging out with loved ones, these moments help me decompress and recharge for the next day. This evening routine is crucial for maintaining a healthy work-life balance, ensuring I'm refreshed and ready for whatever tomorrow brings.
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