Galatians 6:4 says, “Do your own work well, and then you will have something to be proud of. But don’t compare yourself with others.” I see comparisons come up and usually the two business models are like apples and oranges to each other. This only leads to discontent so I want to give you a couple tips for guarding against discontent within your business. My desire is for you to rock the business model you have for your virtual assistant business and not to be swayed by the shiny object that seems to be happening in someone else’s business or what the internet marketers are saying you must do to succeed.

Tip 1: It is okay to be a hobbyist in your business if the smaller scale brings you the greatest satisfaction and fits your available time and lifestyle.
Tip 2: Only you can define your own brand of success. If you have 27 people in a room you will get 27 definitions of what it means to be successful.
Tip 3: Having the biggest business doesn’t guarantee happiness or huge profits. Size isn’t important in the overall picture.
Tip 4: Running a business, of any size, is hard work. You will work harder than when you were an employee. You are wearing all the hats and carrying the full weight of all the responsibilities tied to your business.
Tip 5: It’s crucial that you embrace and make the mindset change to being the leader in your business. The days of someone telling you what to do, when to do it, and how to do it are gone forever.
Tip 6: Before deciding if the next biggest thing is for you, decide if it will make your processes easier and more efficient. Determine if it aligns with the directions you desire for your business.
Tip 7: Comparing yourself to others is toxic. Don’t nurture your business goals with poison.

Making the distinction of having a business or a hobby isn’t always a clear cut and easy decision. There are questions to consider such as “Does your heart want to work as a full-time or part-time virtual assistant?” and “Why do you want to become a business owner in the first place?” The answers can range from being passionate about helping others to wanting an extra income, from needing to find a job in a job-challenged market to suddenly being laid off with no particular direction so you determine to make your own purpose. These are only a handful of reasons why someone looks to becoming a virtual assistant. The list goes on and on.

Neither hobby nor full-fledge business, and all the baggage that comes with that, are incorrect choices. Both can be satisfying and both can meet needs for the clients being served. Both can be goals that are attainable but it’s important to recognize which business model you’re leading. Which one you’re creating a business plan for and why you’re doing it. Determining which one will help you guard against disappointments and distractions and getting caught up in comparisons with other businesses.

The buzz seems to be about becoming a 6-figure business as a measure of success. Marketers use it as a lure to get you to buy their system or program. Granted some may state that results aren’t guaranteed for every business model because it’s rooted in your hard work. Others say “I did it and you can too.” Ultimately, you must decide.

I want to encourage you to seek only what’s enough and satisfying for YOU – whatever size, shape, or niche that may be. You can work as much as you want – full-time or part-time. Never give away that leadership. You’ve earned it, now own it.

Getting caught up in comparisons undermines your ability to be grateful for what God has given you. Not everyone will reach 6-figure earnings nor is it an equal dream of all virtual assistants. And…that’s all right.