As August rolls in, it’s time to transition from the relaxed pace of summer to the focused rhythm of the ‘back to schedule’ season. Much like the anticipation of back-to-school shopping, this is the perfect opportunity to refresh your routines, prepare for year-end reviews, and approach the end of the fiscal year with renewed energy. Don’t forget to grab my free performance review worksheet to help you get started! (Check out the free resources section below.)
Get Your “Adult” School Supplies! Speaking of back-to-school, why should kids have all the fun? Treat yourself to an “adult” school supply that will empower you to succeed: The Roadmap to Empowering You. It’s the ultimate tool to help you stay organized, focused, and ready to shine in your role. While you are at it, get yourself a nice pen; just like the kids need fresh pencils, you deserve a fresh new pen. After all, a well-equipped admin is an unstoppable force!
Coaching Corner: Summer Adventures and Lessons Learned
This summer has been a whirlwind for me. What began as a simple, spontaneous week-long vacation quickly became an extended adventure—complete with a class reunion, unexpected visits from friends, and extra quality time with family. I’ve cherished every moment, yet I’ve also found myself craving the structure of a routine. Sound familiar?
As administrative professionals, we thrive on planning, organizing, and keeping things running smoothly. But what happens when life throws us a curveball? When our carefully laid plans go out the window, we’re left with a calendar full of loose ends.
For me, the answer came from an unexpected source: my granddaughter. In the middle of all this spontaneity, she looked up at me and said, “Isn’t it great to spend so much time together, Nana?” Her words stopped me in my tracks. They reminded me that this—these precious, unplanned moments with loved ones—is exactly why we work so hard.
But that doesn’t mean it’s always easy to embrace the unexpected. As someone who has spent years planning for executives, leadership teams, and the admin community, I’ve realized that I rely on structure to feel in control. So when my routine gets disrupted, it’s easy to feel stressed, especially when I find myself moving the same “to do” repeatedly on my calendar.
Here’s what I’ve learned: Balance is key. While structure and planning are essential, it’s equally important to leave room for spontaneity and be present in those moments that truly matter. As I dive back into preparing for upcoming events and developing new curriculum, I’m reminding myself that there’s still time to get everything done—even if it doesn’t all go according to plan. If there’s one thing I know for sure, it’s that admins always find a way to get it all done!
Here’s my challenge to you: Next time life feels out of control, take a deep breath. Embrace the spontaneity, cherish the unexpected, and trust that your skills and experience will guide you. After all, it’s in those unplanned moments that we often find the greatest joy.
Let’s make this transition back to our routines a smooth and empowering one!
Speaking Calendar Update
I’m thrilled to share that I have some exciting speaking engagements coming up in the last quarter of the year, and they are open to the public.
I’m speaking at the Office Dynamics Elite Assistant Certification Course on October 8th at the Red Rock Resort in Las Vegas. https://officedynamicsconference.com/elite-assistant-certification/
This event is sold out! Are you one of the lucky 100 attending? If so, send me an email! I’d love to meet you for coffee or a beverage of your choice!
I’m also honored to speak at the APC for administrative professionals from October 27-30. Here’s the link to check out all the details: https://www.apcevent.com/
My sessions include:
- How to Successfully Lead Your Admin Team – a 45-minute workshop for intermediate-level administrative professionals and executive assistants.
- Strategic Engagement: Mastering Your Role in Leadership Discussions – a 75-90 minute session for advanced-level executive assistants and admins with 5+ years of experience as strategic partners at the C-level. We’ll cover topics like leadership mindset, communication, and adaptability.
- Elevate Your Administrative Career: Key Behaviors for Success – a 45-minute educational session with practical insights and quick-hit strategies to propel your professional journey forward. The session includes a 15-minute interactive Q&A for lively discussions and personalized advice. Key takeaways include effective communication techniques, relationship-building essentials, and trust-based feedback.
Last but not least:Have you heard about Powerhouse Training for Powerhouse Assistants? Prepare to become a Powerhouse Executive Assistant and elevate your skills at our NEW training event tailored exclusively for senior executive assistants. Our content-driven program empowers you with the knowledge and strategies needed to excel in your role. Join us for an immersive learning experience where you’ll gain invaluable insights, connect with peers, and leave with the tools to become a powerhouse assistant in your field. The certification will occur on November 21-22, 2024, at The Arcotel, Wimburger, Vienna. You can learn more about the POWERHOUSE event here.
These opportunities allow me to share valuable insights and connect with professionals like you. I look forward to meeting many of you at these events!
Free Resources and Great Tools: Performance Review Prep!
This tool will help you:
- Reflect on your achievements
- Align with organizational goals
- Prepare for the conversation
- Following up
- Not to mention, lots of pro tips along the way
Check out The Empowerment Shop
Have you visited the Empowerment Shop? It’s filled with free worksheets and great tools for your professional and personal life.
If you’re looking for help to move forward, this is the empowerment you need.
Connect with Me
As always, I love hearing from you! Please don’t hesitate to reply to this email or contact me on social media. Let’s keep the conversation going about how we can continue to grow personally and professionally.
Warmly,
Peggy
