Hello - and happy Thursday!
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I’m just back from a great couple of days up north where I spoke at the first Manchester VA Conference.
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My session was all about confidence and how it doesn’t usually appear before growth - it tends to come because of it.
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​I’ve actually really struggled with confidence over the years, and still regularly do.
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​Most of us are waiting to feel fully ready before we put ourselves out there, raise our prices, pitch ourselves or take the next step… but growth rarely works like that. Feeling uncomfortable is often a sign that you’re stretching into something bigger, not proof that you’re failing.

So, a few reminders for you this week:

1. Confidence is built through evidence, not overthinking. Action first, confidence second.
2. Stop comparing your “behind the scenes” to someone else’s highlight reel.
3. The next version of your business probably requires a braver version of you.

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​You don’t have to feel fearless to move forward, you just have to be willing to take the next step anyway.​
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It was a brilliant event with fantastic speakers leading sessions on business strategy, money mindset, AI and automation - and so much more! Coupled with a great venue and amazing atmosphere, I will definitely be heading back in 2027.
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I’ll also be in Kent for Lounge by the Sea next week so please find me and say hi if you’re attending!

🎙️ Work-Life Balance is a Myth

In this week’s episode of the Visionary VA Podcast, I’m talking about why I think “work-life balance” is one of the biggest myths in business - especially when you’re building something meaningful.
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Growth requires input, and not every season is supposed to feel calm, equal and perfectly balanced. Instead of chasing an unrealistic ideal, perhaps the focus should be on work-life integration and building a business that fits around the life you actually want.
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If you’ve ever felt guilty for being “out of balance” during a busy season, then you should give this one a listen.

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📅 Birmingham VA Meet Up

Our next in-person meet up will be taking place on Thursday, 21st May from 10.00 – 12.00 at the Radisson Blu Hotel, 12 Holloway Circus, Birmingham B1 1BT, so sign up here if you’ll be joining us.
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Whether you’re an established VA, just starting out or perhaps only pondering the idea of setting up your VA business, we’d love to meet you and hear more about your journey.
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And if you’re not anywhere near Birmingham, check out the rest of our event schedule to see what else is coming up over the next few months.
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See you next week!

Holly x

P.S. If you’re setting up (or switching) your accounting software, it’s worth checking out this brilliant Xero offer where you can save 90% for your first 6 months. I use Xero to run both of my businesses and genuinely love it, which is why I’m very happy to recommend it as an affiliate partner