The internet changed businesses. The internet changed media. The internet changed government. Then, it changed lives. We now have new careers, new ways to communicate, new ways no make income, to talk to mom, to say I love you and I hate you and “I quit”. The internet has given us more options than most of us ever imagines having. It has contributed immensely to the unprecedented success of individuals working from the home and the invention of a completely new title for administrative professionals – who thought that they would never be recognized as such – the birth of the title Virtual Assistant.

As a self-employed virtual assistant, never again will you have to send a fax or tell a lie for a boss you don't particularly like. Never again will you have to accept low wages or make coffee for an entire office staff. The internet has made it possible to break down the physical obstacles that used to limit administrative workers – they can now work anytime they choose in the comfort of their homes regardless of their physical location. They can now get more done, in less time, and their bosses can be anywhere, only asking them to concentrate on one or two tasks at a time.

Telecommuting enables Virtual Assistant all over the world to discover and reap the benefits of running businesses from of their homes with no strict dress codes to follow or demeaning busywork. Administrative assistants are often loaned out to other departments in the office world – which is often frustrating and demeaning. In the VA world, you choose your clients, but accept referrals. You charge your own wages. You can turn down projects. You can share responsibilities with other staff if you choose. You do administrative work on your own hours and terms, spelled out in an independent contract.

Some of the more obvious benefits of Virtual Assistant businesses are:

Working from home gives you freedom from traffic and office politics; it provides flexibility of schedule and more time with your family..

A Virtual Assistant business gives you more opportunity to save – no fuel expenses, you get to eat at home, and the money stays home with you, too.

A home business entitles you to home business tax deductions, which is a tax deduction category all by itself.

A home business means more quality time for your family.

Running your own business gives you first-hand experience in marketing, advertising, sales, strategic planning, business development and research.

Virtual Assistant businesses are almost always run by people who have organizational skills and an entrepreneurial spirit that sets them up for success in all they do. Having your own Virtual Assistant business gives you the opportunity to gain more self-confidence because you are in control of your success. Financial independence is the most compelling reason why people go into business.

Being a Virtual Assistant is a rewarding occupation and an inspiration to the people you love, as well. It may start off as a lot of hard work, but the joy of having new clients, and the stability of new contracts coming in, will make it all worth it in the beginning, middle, and retirement age end.