I didn’t plan to start a “movement.” Honestly, I just wanted to write. To share. To create a little space online where I could tell my story, even if no one was listening at the time.

Back in 2010, working from home wasn’t a thing yet, at least not here in the Philippines. Remote work wasn’t a trend, and the word “virtual assistant” was still unfamiliar to most. I was still working full-time in a corporate job, dreaming of a different kind of life.

And then slowly, one thing led to another. I resigned.

I took my first freelance gig. I started working online. And along the way, I created a little blog called The Virtual Assistant Diary.

I didn’t post much at first. I was still figuring things out like how to get clients, how to use tools, how to work with people across different time zones. But every now and then, I’d write about it. Because even then, I knew there were others like me… figuring things out too.

From Diary to Direction
In 2013, I registered my own business. I worked with international clients. I managed small teams. I wore so many hats I lost count. TVAD took a backseat while I focused on work, life, and everything in between. But the diary was always there.

Then came marriage. Motherhood. The pandemic. And suddenly, the world was asking about the thing I’ve been quietly doing for over a decade: “Paano ba maging VA?”

And I realized… maybe now’s the time to speak again.

Why I Relaunched TVAD
So many people on the internet are talking about freelancing.. how it’s easy, how it can make you rich, how you can “work from anywhere” and make 6 figures right away.

But that’s not always the full story.

Yes, freelancing can give you freedom. But it also takes real work, patience, learning, and skills. And if you’re not prepared, it can be overwhelming. That’s why I relaunched The Virtual Assistant Diary to give people a more honest, grounded, and supportive place to learn.

Because I know how it feels to:

Start from scratch with no clue what you’re doing.
Doubt yourself and your abilities.
Look at unpaid bills and wonder if this path is really worth it.
Feel alone while figuring out how to make it all work.

And if you feel this way, I want you to know: you’re not alone.

What it’s all about
The Virtual Assistant Diary is not just a blog. It’s my 15-year journey, written down. It’s also a resource hub, a podcast (Live Your Dream), and soon a place for learning through guided courses and mentorship.

Inside TVAD you’ll find:
Free resources to help you get started.
Real stories, not just highlight reels.
Honest advice for aspiring and experienced VAs.
A community that cheers for you even on your slow days.

I created the blog because I believe in doing less, but doing it well. And because I know that sometimes, all someone needs is a guide. Someone who’s walked the road before and is willing to walk alongside you too.

Here’s my note to you:
Maybe you’re a mom like me.

Maybe you’re restarting after a big life event.

Maybe you’re just dreaming of a career you can build from home so you never have to choose between work and family again.

If that’s you, then welcome. This diary is yours as much as it is mine.

Thank you for being here. Thank you for reading.

Let’s keep writing new chapters together.

With love,
Marie