Turning 40 this August has made me reflect on my journey so far. I’ve had many challenges over the years, which you can read about here.

The lessons I have learnt along the way now apply to my work supporting CEOs and business leaders. Here are five key takeaways:

Focus on Showing Up

In both life and work, building relationships with people who support you is crucial.

As a Virtual Assistant (VA), I’ve learnt this lesson through supporting many CEOs and business leaders. The most successful partnerships are built on mutual trust, commitment, and reliability.

For example, I make it a priority to check in regularly with each of my clients. Whether it’s a quick email or text to share an article I think they’ll find interesting, I look for small ways to show I’m thinking of them and that I am committed to their success.

When a client needs something urgently, I am able to drop non priority tasks and make myself available to help. I understand things happen and being flexible is essential to ensuring our clients feel fully supported.

Focus on the now

In my 20s and 30s, I tended to fixate on the future. I would get wrapped up in worries about next week, next month, or even next year. This relentless future focus caused me to miss out on embracing the present.

Now I focus on being absolutely present, whether that is working on a project or spending time with loved ones.

For example, multitasking is rarely productive (although to be fair, I am pretty good at it). I have learnt that concentrating fully on what I am doing or who I am talking to instead of keeping a running list of things I need to do or jumping ahead to the next steps – however excited I might be for the project.

Being mentally present allows active listening and relevant questions to come up and provide a higher level of support.

Don’t Let Your Past Define You

We all have things we regret, but it’s important not to let the past restrict the future. What matters most is how we choose to move forward.

In my work supporting CEOs, I’ve learnt to be adaptable and embrace growth rather than let old experiences limit me. My capabilities are defined by my willingness to evolve, not by any one job or company from my past.

For instance, earlier in my career, I worked for companies resistant to change and new perspectives. Ideas that challenged the status quo were often dismissed.

Now, I understand that each organisation has its own culture and needs.

When partnering with a new CEO client, I make sure not to carry over assumptions from my past roles. Instead, I take the time to understand their vision, values, and objectives. This allows me to provide tailored support based on their unique business goals.

I’m always open to learning new skills and approaches to be a better partner to my clients.

You’re Stronger Than You Know

During tough times, I’ve discovered an inner strength and resilience I didn’t know I possessed. When faced with adversity, I can dig deep and power through even when it seems impossible.

This ability to overcome challenges has shaped me into an excellent Virtual Assistant and Executive Assistant team member. I’m happy to support CEOs and colleagues through periods of difficulty, uncertainty, or change. They know I won’t crack under pressure when the road gets rocky.

My experiences have given me a valuable perspective and empathy that helps me assist others. I’m able to remain calm in stressful situations. I’m always willing to be a sounding board when someone needs to talk through a problem or get a fresh take.

I aim to be a source of stability and levelheaded guidance, especially when tensions are high. My clients know they can count on me to listen without judgement and offer thoughtful solutions.

I’m also not afraid to have the difficult conversations if I believe certain situations don’t benefit the business or team morale. I’ll respectfully challenge the status quo and suggest alternative approaches if I feel they could help move things in a better direction.

“No” is a Complete Sentence

Earlier in my career, I struggled with saying “no” and would take on too much, overextending myself to please others. Now I understand that establishing clear boundaries is essential for success.

As a virtual assistant, it’s vital that I only accept work that fits within my expertise, availability, and bandwidth. Taking on too much reduces the quality of support I can provide. I’ve learned that politely declining requests that don’t align with my business, allows me to be fully present for the clients I do assist.

An essential part of my role is helping CEOs set healthy boundaries. Their time and energy are precious resources. I’m happy to act as their trusted advisor and, when needed, be the “bad guy” who says no on their behalf.

For instance, if unnecessary meetings or commitments get added to a clients calendar without their approval, I’m quick to cancel or reschedule them. I don’t let nonessential demands infringe on their ability to focus on strategic priorities.

When new requests come in, I evaluate if they’re really the best use of the clients time before agreeing. I’m mindful of protecting their schedule and projects that will move the needle for the business.

Saying “no” firmly yet politely has been liberating, both for myself and the executives I support.

Establishing thoughtful boundaries gives us the space and energy to show up entirely focused. Our time is best spent only on what truly matters most.

Conclusion

Reaching the milestone of 40 has prompted me to reflect on the journey so far. I feel fortunate to have learned so much along the way. There have been challenges, of course, but also many joys.

I’m planning some special celebrations this year to mark turning 40. I want to appreciate this moment and not take it for granted.

Most importantly, my experiences have taught me to live in the present, to deeply value my relationships, and to keep what’s truly important close. Work and career will always be there, but the people we love are irreplaceable.

I hope my reflections can encourage others to make the most of each phase of life. The years fly by quickly. Take time to build meaningful connections, follow passions, and create memories along the way.

If you would like to learn about The Executives Suite and how we can help you or your business, get in touch here.