What a week!
On Tuesday, my best friend had to go to the Harrisburg Hospital ER by ambulance. I got a call to meet her there. I stayed by her side during X-rays, IVs, doctor consults, etc., until they decided to admit her. Then I had to help her out with logistics of arranging care for her foster kids, packing their bags, packing a bag for her and going back to the hospital. It was an emotionally exhausting day, but I was glad I was able to be there when she needed me.
On Thursday, my son came home from preschool with a worsening cold and his breathing sounded odd. He took a nap at home, which he never does, went to bed almost at his normal time and woke up in the morning with his breathing sounding worse, a bad cough, and very lethargic. I made a doctor appointment and took him in. Long story short, he has pneumonia-either walking or vial- neither of which are “the really bad kind,” which I guess is bacterial. So he obviously spent the day with me. Fortunately, none of my clients had strict deadlines either day I missed, and the ones that had expected to hear from me and didn’t, were very understanding.
How many other jobs would I just be able to drop everything to be with a scared friend at the hospital? Or take a second day off that week for a sick child. Yes, it’s inconvenient when a miss a whole day or two at work, but it’s still much less stressful than if I was working for someone else.
Flexibility….it’s a wonderful thing.
Lauren Hidden, owner of The Hidden Helpers is a professional writer, author, editor, and writing coach. Working with professionals in a variety of industries, Lauren helps her clients get their messages across clearly, concisely, and persuasively.
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Lauren — I can completely relate. Last October I was in CA to meet with a client when my dad got sick. Because I work virtually I was able to stay an extra three weeks to be with him and help him out. I was still able to work and my clients understood and were very happy to give me some flexibility in my deadlines.
Now, this past week my dad had a minor heart attack and angioplasty. I leave Wednesday to spend a week there with him. My client’s know I’ll be away from my office but still working for them.
I can’t say enough how amazing it is to have the opportunity to work from anywhere. Yeah, it’s a lot better/easier working from my home office/desk — but having the flexibility to be with family or help a friend in need is awesome.
I’m with you, I’m so glad I’m a virtual assistant!!!
Lanel