Summer’s the season of sunshine, sleeping in, and finally catching your breath after another school year. But if you’re trying to grow (or start) a virtual assistant business during your break, it can be tricky to strike the right balance.
You want to rest. You also want to build something that gives you options come August.
As a former teacher turned VA, I know how tempting it is to either overcommit (“I’m going to work 8 hours a day and launch EVERYTHING!”) or under-plan (“I’ll get to it… eventually”). That’s why having a flexible but intentional schedule is key.
Here’s how to create a summer routine that supports your VA goals and gives you space to enjoy your well-earned break.
1. Start With Your Non-Negotiables
Before you plan anything business-related, decide what you need this summer to feel rested and fulfilled.
Do you want Fridays off?
Are you traveling or taking a family trip?
Do you need daily downtime or tech-free afternoons?
Block these things in first. You’re building a life-first business, not recreating the burnout cycle.
2. Decide on Your “Work” Windows
Once you’ve protected your rest, choose 3–5 blocks of time each week to dedicate to your VA business. This could look like:
Two focused mornings a week (ex: Tues/Thurs 9 am–12 pm)
A daily 60–90-minute sprint before the day starts
A few hours on the weekend, if that feels better
No need to work 8 hours a day—just stay consistent. Progress comes from showing up regularly, not hustling non-stop.
3. Theme Your Days
To avoid decision fatigue (and make the most of your time), try giving each workday a theme:
Monday = Admin & Planning
Tuesday = Learning or course time
Wednesday = Client work or portfolio building
Thursday = Outreach & networking
Friday = Catch-up or off
You can customize this based on your business stage, but having a theme helps you stay focused and avoid spinning your wheels.
4. Set Mini-Goals (Not Giant To-Do Lists)
Instead of saying, “I’m going to launch my business this summer,” break it down into bite-sized weekly goals:
Week 1: Choose services + write a bio
Week 2: Set up a simple website or landing page
Week 3: Join 3 VA or business Facebook groups
Week 4: Pitch your first client
Small, clear goals = major momentum without the stress.
5. Give Yourself Grace (and Buffer Time)
Some weeks will go according to plan. Others… won’t. That’s okay.
Build in buffer time. Expect life to happen. And remember: building your business is a form of rest if it’s moving you closer to freedom and alignment.
Bonus Tip: Create a “When School Starts” Plan
While you’re still in summer mode, spend a little time mapping out what your VA business will look like once school’s back in session.
Will you reduce your client hours?
Switch to weekend-only work?
Keep growing and consider leaving the classroom for good?
Planning ahead keeps your business sustainable—and your options open.
Want More Help Balancing It All?
Inside Educators Exit, I guide you through setting up your VA business in a way that fits your life, schedule, and goals. If you want a clear plan and real support this summer, check it out here →
You don’t need a rigid schedule or 40-hour workweek to build a successful VA business this summer. You just need a little structure, a lot of intention, and permission to do it your way.
You’ve got this—and I’m cheering you on the whole way.
