Today we’d like to introduce you to Martha Paschall-Boykin
Hi Martha, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I began my career as a middle school world geography and American history instructor. After 11 years in public education, I desired a more balanced home/work life and needed to decrease my 80-hour-a-week position to a more manageable work week. After moving away from the public education arena, I transitioned into a supportive administrative position working for a non-profit communications department. In addition, I returned to school to further my education in photography. I have always had a creative side, one I was able to materialize in the classroom and later in my communication admin roles.
Once I obtained a photography certification in 2014 at UTA Arlington, I opened a small private photography side business offering photography services to customers such as business professionals’ headshots, pets, product photography, and seniors in their sunset years.
In 2019, I moved into a virtual assistant benefits coordinator position, and following the COVID-19 epidemic, I opened Outdesk Solutions Virtual Assistant business. I offer a wide range of skill sets developed through my experience, having worked alongside graphic designers and communications directors for over 18 years.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Having a long-term condition is one of my life’s obstacles. Although not life-threatening, it has an impact on my day-to-day existence. Living with this challenge has inspired me to push myself beyond my comfort zone and achieve experiences I never would have imagined, in addition to creating opportunities for private business ownership. Amongst other things, it gives me the necessary flexibility to operate my freelance photography and virtual assistant businesses and has enabled me to provide innovative services to the small business community. “You have two options when faced with obstacles in life: give up or keep going.” I have deliberately chosen to do what I love as I go through it!
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
As a virtual assistant, I am dedicated to providing clients with the best possible service and results. I take the time to get to know each client and learn about their particular VA needs. I always aim to provide my clients with top-notch work and solutions, and I take pride in communicating with them in a timely, clear, and effective manner.
I am a self-published author with a Bachelor of Education, Master of Counseling Education, and Photography Certification. I’ve worked in administration for more than eighteen years, and I have developed curricula for middle school instruction for over 25 years. From simple administrative duties to graphic design to social media and website management, I aim to deliver outstanding virtual assistant services to both individuals and small businesses.
Are there any important lessons you’ve learned that you can share with us?
Along the way, I’ve picked up some pretty important lessons. But the most crucial of all is to take a chance. and keep going despite challenges. Life will be full of surprises and difficulties, but you must persevere.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://outdesk.solutions/. & https://www.marthaboykinphotography.com/
Image Credits
Martha Boykin Photography
