We were lucky to catch up with Diamond Bell recently and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Diamond, thank you so much for joining us and opening up about the very personal topic of divorce. So many in the community are going through or have gone through divorce and we think hearing about how others dealt with the aftermath and managed to build a vibrant, successful life and career despite the trauma of divorce can be helpful to many who might be feeling a degree of hopelessness. So, maybe you can talk to us about how you overcame divorce?
Overcoming divorce was a transformative journey for me, deeply rooted in my faith and personal growth. I sought guidance from both God and a therapist, which provided me with the support I needed during such a challenging time.
My faith played a crucial role in helping me find hope and purpose. Prayer and reflection allowed me to connect with a greater sense of peace, reminding me that I am never alone in my struggles.
Working with my therapist was equally important. Through our sessions, I gained valuable insights into my emotions and behaviors. I learned to confront past patterns and identify the underlying beliefs that had shaped my relationships. This process illuminated the need to prioritize self-love before I could genuinely love someone else.
I discovered that embracing my own worth and nurturing my well-being were essential steps in my healing journey. By focusing on self-compassion and personal growth, I was able to rebuild my sense of identity and create a healthier foundation for future relationships.
This experience has taught me that healing is possible, and through faith and professional support, I learned to love myself first, which has ultimately enriched my life and opened me up to healthier connections.
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
As a full-time virtual assistant and dedicated single mom, I expertly juggle my professional responsibilities while providing a nurturing environment for my child. My role involves managing emails, scheduling, conducting research, and creating content, all while ensuring I stay organized and efficient.
Looking ahead to 2025, I’m excited to announce that I have several speaking engagements lined up, where I will share insights on work-life balance, productivity, and the challenges and triumphs of being a virtual assistant and single parent. These opportunities will not only allow me to connect with others but also inspire fellow parents navigating similar journeys.
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
Key Qualities and Skills
Time Management: Balancing the demands of being a virtual assistant with the responsibilities of single motherhood has honed my time management skills. Prioritizing tasks and setting clear schedules has allowed me to maximize productivity while ensuring quality time with my children.
Communication: Strong communication skills are vital in my role. Effectively conveying information, whether through email, calls, or content creation, has helped me build strong relationships with clients and ensure their needs are met promptly.
Adaptability: The ability to adapt to changing circumstances and client needs has been crucial. In a fast-paced virtual environment, staying flexible and open to new tools and processes has enabled me to thrive and continuously improve my services.
Advice for Aspiring Business Owners
Stay Organized: Invest in tools and systems that help you stay organized. Whether it’s a project management app or a simple to-do list, having a clear overview of your tasks will help you stay focused and productive.
Network Actively: Build connections with other professionals in your field. Attend networking events, join online communities, and seek mentorship. Surrounding yourself with supportive peers can provide valuable insights and encouragement.
Embrace Continuous Learning: The business landscape is always evolving, so commit to ongoing education. Take courses, read industry-related books, and stay updated on trends. This will not only enhance your skills but also keep you competitive in the market.
By cultivating these qualities and following this advice, you can create a strong foundation for your journey as a business owner.
Any advice for folks feeling overwhelmed?
Feeling overwhelmed is a common experience, especially for busy professionals like virtual assistants and parents. So here are some effective strategies to manage those feelings:
1. Prioritize and Break Tasks Down: Start by listing all your tasks and prioritizing them. Break larger tasks into smaller, manageable steps. This makes everything feel less daunting and helps you focus on one thing at a time.
2. Set Realistic Goals: Establish achievable daily or weekly goals. Be mindful of your limits and avoid overcommitting. This helps create a sense of accomplishment without adding unnecessary stress.
3. Take Breaks: Incorporate short breaks throughout your day. Stepping away from your work for a few minutes can refresh your mind and improve your focus when you return.
4. Practice Mindfulness or Meditation: Engaging in mindfulness exercises or meditation can help ground you. Even a few minutes of deep breathing or guided meditation can reduce anxiety and improve clarity.
5. Limit Distractions: Identify what distracts you and find ways to minimize those interruptions. This might mean setting boundaries with others or creating a dedicated workspace.
6. Reach Out for Support: Don’t hesitate to ask for help, whether from friends, family, or colleagues. Sharing your feelings can lighten the emotional load, and others may offer valuable advice or assistance.
7. Establish a Routine: Creating a consistent daily routine can provide structure and predictability. Knowing what to expect each day can alleviate feelings of chaos.
8. Focus on Self-Care: Prioritize activities that recharge you, whether it’s exercise, reading, or spending time with loved ones. Taking care of your physical and mental well-being is crucial during stressful times.
9. Limit Information Overload: In today’s digital age, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by information. Set boundaries on your media consumption and focus only on what’s necessary.
10. Reflect and Adjust: Take time to reflect on what’s causing your overwhelm. Identifying specific triggers can help you adjust your approach and find better solutions moving forward.
Implementing these strategies can help you navigate overwhelming moments more effectively and maintain a sense of balance in your life.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @diamondb_vaservices
- Facebook: Diamond Bell
- Linkedin: diamondbell16
Image Credits
@ Jordan Brunson
@ Marcus D. Porter
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