This Summer, I’m Heading To Iloilo... Alone. My Best Friend Was Supposed To Join Me, But She Has Important

The Realities of Working as a Virtual Assistant: Pros and Cons

In today's gig economy, the role of a virtual assistant (VA) has gained significant traction. The flexibility and remote nature of the job appeal to many, especially those seeking to balance personal and professional lives. However, like any career path, it has its upsides and downsides. Here's a deep dive into what you can expect when working as a virtual assistant.

The Pros of Being a Virtual Assistant

1. Flexibility

One of the most significant advantages of being a VA is the ability to work from anywhere. As long as you have a reliable internet connection, your office can be a beach in Bali or your cozy living room. This flexibility allows for a better work-life balance and can be especially beneficial for those with family commitments or other personal responsibilities.

2. Diverse Opportunities

Working as a VA often means wearing many hats. You could be managing emails, scheduling meetings, handling social media, or performing market research. This diversity can make the job more engaging and provide a wide range of skills that can be useful in various fields.

3. Cost Savings

Commuting costs, work attire, and lunch expenses can add up. As a VA, these costs are significantly reduced. Additionally, you have the opportunity to take on multiple clients, potentially increasing your income.

4. Personal Growth

The virtual assistant role can be a great platform for personal growth. The nature of the job often requires excellent communication, time management, and organizational skills. Over time, you may find yourself becoming more adept in these areas, which can be beneficial in both personal and professional contexts.

The Cons of Being a Virtual Assistant

1. Job Stability

One of the most challenging aspects of being a VA is the lack of job security. Contracts can be terminated at any time, often with little notice. Clients' needs change, businesses pivot, and budget cuts happen. Without a long-term contract, there’s always a risk of losing your source of income.

2. Isolation

While working from home has its perks, it can also be isolating. Without the social interactions of a traditional office, you might miss out on the camaraderie and networking opportunities that come with being in a team environment.

3. Inconsistent Income

As a virtual assistant, your income can be unpredictable. Some months you might have more work than you can handle, while others might be sparse. This inconsistency can make budgeting and financial planning challenging.

4. Self-Discipline Required

Working remotely requires a high level of self-discipline and motivation. Without a manager looking over your shoulder, it can be easy to procrastinate or become distracted. It’s essential to have strong time management skills and the ability to stay focused on tasks.

Given these pros and cons, it's crucial to have a fallback plan. Here are some strategies to ensure you're prepared for any eventualities:

Build an Emergency Fund: Having a financial cushion can help you weather periods of inconsistent income or job loss.

Continuous Learning: Keep updating your skills and knowledge. The more versatile and skilled you are, the more valuable you become to current and potential clients.

Networking: Join VA communities, attend webinars, and connect with other professionals. Networking can lead to new job opportunities and provide support when needed.

Diversify Your Client Base: Relying on a single client for your income can be risky. Aim to have multiple clients to spread the risk.

Working as a virtual assistant can be incredibly rewarding, offering flexibility and diverse opportunities. However, it comes with its own set of challenges, particularly around job stability and income consistency. By understanding these pros and cons and preparing accordingly, you can make the most of your career as a virtual assistant. Embrace the journey, keep learning, and always have a plan B. *wink*

What do I like the most about my city?

Kidapawan City, once a small town nestled in the misty mountains of North Cotabato, holds a special place in my heart. I still remember being 8 years old when my family moved back to the Philippines, greeted by the cool mountain air and the warmth of this vibrant city, just a couple of hours away from bustling Davao.

Adjusting to the weather here was tough at first—I found myself in and out of the hospital yearly until I finally adapted. The nights were chilly, and the days could be warm, but not oppressively so—just the kind of pleasant warmth that feels comforting.

As I grew older, so did the city around me. We welcomed franchises of beloved fast-food chains, watched hospitals upgrade, and witnessed roads being reconstructed and experienced numerous other developments that have transformed the city. Old buildings, standing proud, were gradually renovated to blend seamlessly with the changes. Progress was palpable.

In the simplicity of life here, I found comfort. I could just walk to my destination without worrying about sunburn, thanks to the shade provided generously by the trees. Everything I needed was within walking distance, fostering a sense of closeness and community.

Kidapawan City isn't just a place to me; it's home. It's where my heart will always reside, where the memories of childhood and the warmth of family intertwine. It's a sanctuary where the pace of life allows me to appreciate the little joys and the beauty of each day.

what's on your mind?

Not everyone is meant to be in your future. Some people are just passing through to teach you lessons in life.

Feeling queasy.

No I love yous

I was already in the process of writing a love story but I stopped. I do not have the drive. Maybe I'll just wait for ideas.

attachment issues?

I don’t know about you, but dating apps are a comedy goldmine. Don’t get me wrong—I understand their purpose and how they’ve helped so many people find connections, but honestly, they’re like an endless source of entertainment for me.

First of all, the profiles. Some are well thought out, showcasing someone’s personality and interests, but then you’ve got the absolute gems. The guys who upload blurry photos from 2010, or better yet, a group photo where you have no idea which person you're supposed to be swiping on. Or the ones where they pose with a fish—what’s with the fish?! Is that supposed to reel me in?

And let’s not forget the bios. I’ve seen it all—from overly poetic lines like, “I’m a wanderer looking for my partner in this chaotic universe” to the extreme laziness of, “I don’t know what to put here, just ask.” You get two extremes—people trying way too hard to sound deep and philosophical, or people who are straight-up giving no effort. Both are funny, in their own ways.

The conversations, though, that’s where the real comedy kicks in. Sometimes you get a perfectly fine opener like, “Hey, how’s it going?” Other times, it’s like people forget how to have a normal conversation and come in with, “You’re cute, wanna get married?” I mean, at least they’re getting to the point! But really, there’s no better way to start a day than by reading awkward pickup lines or someone saying something completely random out of nowhere. It's like people are playing a game of How weird can I be?

And then there’s the unmatched confidence some people have. Like, they’ll send one message and if you don’t respond in 15 minutes, it’s either “Hello??” or worse, “I didn’t like you anyway.” What even is that?! The speed at which some people can go from interested to offended is impressive.

Maybe I’m just here for the show, but dating apps, to me, are like reality TV: a little absurd, a little unexpected, and always good for a laugh. Sure, I might be looking for a real connection, but I’m definitely going to enjoy the comedy while I’m at it.

I thought looking for a house would be easy. It's taxing. You have to visit the location. Check if you are qualified. Like sobrang daming requirements. Income. Then you have to consider the transpo, if you are conveniently located near the hospital (because I have a child), mall, church, workplace, etc.