Throughout my journey as an EA over the years, I've had the chance to support a whole bunch of different folks. Some have been absolutely wonderful – down-to-earth, kind-hearted, and respectful. But, boy oh boy, there were a few real tyrants in the mix too. You know the type – those who seem to get a kick out of making you feel like you're worth less than a crumpled-up piece of paper.
It wasn't always easy, and I won't lie, there were moments that left me feeling pretty low. While I was hustling to grow myself, my skills, and my experience, I had to put up with those discouraging autocrats. But you know what? Along the way, I found my voice. I stood up for myself and started treating myself with the respect I deserved. Slowly but surely, I started realising my own value and stopped letting their negative, degrading comments get under my skin. I'd tell myself, "It's their issue, not yours, Chantell!" And guess what? I stayed true to who I am.
Now, after all those years, I've become a pro at handling whatever comes my way. I've learned to set my own pace, and I've built strong, trustworthy and respectful (both ways!) relationships with my clients – that's the real gold. And you know what's the absolute best part? I get to decide who I want to team up with. No more putting up with the negative vibes – I'm the captainess of my ship now!
Have you had such experiences? How do you cope? How thick is your skin?
Here are some fab ways to learn to start building your resilience…
As a virtual assistant, you're often at the forefront of dealing with various clients and their unique demands. While the job can be rewarding and fulfilling, it can also come with its fair share of challenges and occasional negative experiences. Developing a thick skin is essential for maintaining your confidence, professionalism, and mental well-being. In this blog, we'll explore some valuable strategies to help you cultivate resilience as a virtual assistant.
Understand the Nature of the Job:
Being a virtual assistant means working with a diverse range of clients, each with their own expectations and communication styles. It's important to recognise that not every interaction will be smooth or positive. Accepting this reality from the outset can help you mentally prepare for any potential difficulties that may arise.
Set Clear Boundaries:
Establishing clear boundaries with your clients is crucial for maintaining a healthy working relationship. Clearly define your working hours, response times, and any limitations on the tasks you're willing to undertake. By communicating your boundaries upfront, you'll minimise the chances of misunderstandings or unrealistic demands that could potentially impact your emotional well-being.
Develop Effective Communication Skills:
Effective communication is the cornerstone of success as a virtual assistant. It's important to master the art of diplomacy, active listening, and empathy. When faced with criticism or challenging situations, strive to respond calmly and professionally. Remember, your role is to find solutions and provide assistance, even in the face of adversity.
Embrace Constructive Feedback:
Constructive feedback can be a powerful tool for personal and professional growth. I personally believe feedback is a gift! And while it's natural to feel defensive or discouraged when receiving criticism, try to reframe it as an opportunity for improvement. View feedback as a valuable resource that can help you refine your skills, enhance your performance, and build resilience over time.
Practice Self-Care:
Working as a virtual assistant can be demanding, both mentally and emotionally. To build a thick skin, prioritise self-care. Establish a self-care routine that includes activities such as exercise, meditation, hobbies, and spending quality time with loved ones. Taking care of your well-being will strengthen your resilience and enable you to bounce back more easily from challenging situations.
Seek Support from Peers:
Connecting with fellow virtual assistants or joining professional communities can provide invaluable support. Engage in conversations with others who understand the unique challenges of your role. Sharing experiences, seeking advice, and learning from others can help you gain perspective, build resilience, and remind you that you're not alone in facing occasional difficulties.
So, in conclusion, developing a thick skin as a virtual assistant is an ongoing process that requires self-reflection, effective communication, confidence and self-care. By understanding the nature of the job, setting clear boundaries, embracing feedback, and prioritising your well-being, you can cultivate resilience and thrive in your role. Remember, it's not about avoiding challenges entirely but rather learning how to navigate them with confidence and professionalism.
Best luck everyone!