Turning Struggles into Strength: How I Built a Career as a Virtual Assistant

Life hadn’t always been kind to Sherel. As a single mom, Sherel knew the sting of empty cupboards and the weight of her toddler’s innocent eyes searching for answers she couldn’t provide. Sherel's daughter was her world—her laughter, curiosity, and resilience were her driving forces. But providing for her as a single mother was more than challenging; at times, it was heartbreaking.

Sherel worked long hours at a job that barely covered their basic needs, leaving little time to nurture the bond she desperately wanted to build with her daughter. Many nights were filled with tears of exhaustion, whispered prayers for a miracle, and the haunting question: “Is this the life I want for her?”

This inspired her to become a Virtual Assistant—to transform their lives and give her daughter the life she truly deserved.

Overcoming Challenges to Begin the Journey

When she first decided to pursue this path, she was far from financially stable and lacked the necessary tools to succeed, including a basic computer. Determined to change her circumstances, she took out a loan to purchase one and began her journey. However, she had no idea where to start. With zero knowledge about being a Virtual Assistant, she turned to the internet for resources and sought advice from friends who were already in the field.

"There was a time in my life when I was not financially stable and lacked the necessary tools to succeed, including a basic computer. Determined to change my circumstances, I took out a loan to purchase a computer and begin my journey. However, I had no idea where to start. With zero knowledge about being a virtual assistant, I turned to the internet for resources and sought advice from friends who were already in the field. It was a journey marked by trial and error, countless struggles, and moments of self-doubt. I am very thankful because I found Summit Va Solutions which gave me the opportunity and support to be what I am now."

It was a journey marked by trial and error, countless struggles, and moments of self-doubt. She is incredibly thankful to Summit VA Solutions for providing her with the opportunity and support she needed to become the professional she is today. Their training equipped her with a strong foundation, making subsequent challenges more manageable.

Initially, she believed that securing a client would guarantee stability and eliminate her worries. However, she quickly learned that the real challenges began after landing a client. Working with different clients—each with unique demands—taught her persistence, adaptability, and determination. These lessons became the keys to overcoming obstacles and achieving long-term success.

A Day in the Life of a Virtual Assistant

Her typical workday is a blend of structure and adaptability. It starts with logging in, checking emails, and reviewing tasks for the day. She manages transactions, documents, and ongoing email correspondence in the morning. The afternoon is spent finalizing tasks, reviewing documents, and preparing everything for the next day. Before logging off, she reflects on her progress, ensuring every detail is accounted for.

Balancing Multiple Projects

One of the most valuable lessons she’s learned is the importance of organization. Tasks are delegated and prioritized based on urgency, giving her the flexibility to complete high-priority tasks first and reschedule others as needed. This systematic approach, combined with a strong organizational framework from her client, ensures that she manages multiple projects effectively.

Memorable Moments and Proud Achievements

The proudest moments in her career often come when she exceeds client expectations.

"The proudest moment was when ensuring all tasks were completed on time and exceeded client expectations. It was incredibly rewarding to see the positive feedback from the client."

Knowing that her efforts have a positive impact is incredibly rewarding. One memorable experience was receiving thoughtful support from a client. When she needed leave on short notice, the client not only approved it with pay but also provided bonuses and displayed understanding during unforeseen challenges. Moments like these reinforce the value of strong client relationships.

Tackling Tough Challenges

The toughest challenge she faced was starting with no knowledge of the Real Estate industry. Summit VA Solutions provided extensive training that equipped her to handle the tasks ahead. Despite the initial difficulty, the dedication and teamwork at Summit made the experience both manageable and rewarding. Resilience and a commitment to learning have been her guiding principles throughout this journey.

How Being a Virtual Assistant Changed Her Life

Becoming a Virtual Assistant has profoundly impacted her life. Working remotely has granted her the flexibility to balance her professional and personal responsibilities more effectively.

"Being a Virtual Assistant has profoundly impacted my life. It has granted me the flexibility to work remotely, significantly improving my work-life balance and allowing me to manage my time more efficiently. While I can’t fully say that I have achieved all my goals due to the challenges brought on by the pandemic, I acknowledge the struggles I faced, particularly as I gave birth during this time. Despite these challenges, I am gradually getting back on track, one step at a time. I am deeply grateful to my client and Summit for their unwavering support and for not giving up on me."

While the challenges brought on by the pandemic temporarily disrupted her progress, she is steadily getting back on track, one step at a time. She remains deeply grateful to her client and Summit for their unwavering support.

Skills Gained and Lessons Learned

Through this role, she has developed resilience and patience. These qualities have strengthened her ability to stay focused, overcome challenges, and maintain a positive attitude, even in difficult situations. Time management, communication, and adaptability are also critical skills she has honed along the way.

Advice for Aspiring Virtual Assistants

To anyone starting their VA journey, her advice is simple: invest in commitment, discipline, patience, resilience, and a positive attitude. Success will naturally follow when challenges are approached with determination and an open mind.

Shere's journey as a Virtual Assistant has been one of transformation—not just professionally, but personally. It has given her the ability to provide for her daughter, nurture their bond, and create a life filled with opportunities. While the path hasn’t been easy, every step has been worth it. To those considering this journey, take the leap. With persistence and the right mindset, success is within reach.