We often
hear how our experiences prepare us for our next step. I’d like to introduce
you to Kathrine Farris. Her encouraging story of preparation illustrates this
beautifully. Kathrine, tell us how your career path began and led to your heart's desire.
After finishing my
degree in Administrative Office Management, I was left feeling like I had
learned how to become a secretary; certainly not what I had in mind. Then, while planning my wedding in 2008, my
college advisor contacted me about teaching a computer applications course; I
needed the extra finances and God provided. I soon learned, He was not
just providing, but positioning me for future endeavors.
Working at a bank as Assistant Branch
Manager, and instructing at the college in computer applications helped
me format a business concept. The
banking position gave me immense opportunities for interaction with business
clients, business development, working with personnel and operations
management.
How did you
begin to use these connections? And, how did you find your way to where you are
now?
I began by offering basic services such as
data entry, word processing, presentations, spreadsheets, and other
administrative tasks as an independent contractor to entrepreneurs and small
businesses. Researching my concept
further, I learned it was not a new idea, but known by the term Virtual Assistant.
In March of
2011, just after finishing major renovations on our new home, still working in
banking as a VP and Branch Manager, running my business, and teaching; I
learned I was pregnant with our first child.
In early January 2012, we were blessed with a healthy baby boy.
The additional income from my
business, enabled me to take a full 12 week maternity leave from the bank. We
felt blessed to have this. I was able to
grow my business during my maternity leave, and took on my largest client just
weeks before I had to return to work.
For a combination of reasons, we
decided my husband would be a stay-at-home-dad.
With a heavy heart, fighting back tears, and breast pump in hand; the
time came to return to the bank. The
next few months were some of the most difficult of my life! I cried every
morning as I left my son, knowing that between both jobs I’d be lucky to see
him before bed. My nights were sleepless, because he was up every two hours,
and I couldn’t bear to let him ‘cry it out’. The stress was killing my
marriage.
It sounds
like you came to a crossroad. Tell us how you struggled with decisions during
that time? What comfort did you sense from God through it?
My desire was to work
from home, however, we would lose our only stable income and benefits like
health insurance. I prayed and held onto the Bible verse “Take delight in the
Lord, and he will give you the desires
of your heart.” (Psalms 37:4)
In July my husband and I had a
serious talk about our options, ultimately deciding to trust in God! I left my job at the bank. Within two months,
my virtual assisting business doubled.
After three months we heard about
Christian medical sharing, and we now have better coverage for less than half
of what a major medical plan costs.
And, now a year later, my business is
flourishing, my family life is great, and we are excitedly awaiting the arrival
of our second child. . God is so good!
Looking back, it’s so amazing and
humbling to see where God has brought us, and the faithfulness that he has
shown me before I even knew what I needed. Without his guidance, I would not be
where I am—appreciating a lifestyle that allows me to enjoy my family and the
work that provides for them. I can’t wait to see what he has in store for our
future!
Kathrine is
seeing Jeremiah 29:11 played out: God does have plans for us. He has given her heart's desire. She is an amazing
mom, wife and business owner. I am learning about the role of a virtual
assistant by seeing her serve her clients efficiently and professionally.
Thanks,
Kathrine for sharing your story of God’s faithfulness with us!!
Kathrine
Farris is Owner and
Virtual Business Professional behind Strategic Office Support,
a Virtual Assisting company that specializes in supporting Professional
Speakers, Authors, Consultants, and Business and Life Coaches. She is married
to Paul and they have a son, Kaiden and another little one on the way.
Also visit www.BecomeAVA.com for training, resources,
and coaching for new and aspiring Virtual Assistants.
Do you have a story of God's guidance?
Jeanne
Do you have a story of God's guidance?
Jeanne
I saw your post in the UBC Facebook group - so glad to find a kindred spirit! :-)
ReplyDeleteWhat a wonderful story and divine intervention in Kathrine's life; exciting about the new little one on the way, too! Love Jeremiah 29:11.
Your photo is beautiful, too. I grew up in the Lakes Region area of NH - in fact, we lived within walking distance of Lake Winnipesaukee. Small world!
K'Lee...what a small world indeed. Thanks for connecting. And, for stopping by and sharing your thoughts.
ReplyDeleteThanks for this introduction to Kathrine, Jeanne. Congratulations on all your successes in life, love, and business, Kathrine!
ReplyDeleteThank you, Vonda.
ReplyDeleteThank you, K'Lee & Vonda!
ReplyDeleteI certainly feel blessed to have the successes and lifestyle that I now enjoy.
It's amazing to see what God can do with us!
Fabulous post! Thank you for sharing the progression of Kathrine's life. So uplifting, so encouraging!
ReplyDeleteLisa
Hi, Jeanne,
ReplyDeleteIt is always a blessing to know that you are walking in the plan that God has for you.
God led us to homeschool over 20 years ago and we are still going strong in our homeschool with our teens. However, now it seems that we are being led to start a home business. I've started blogging and seeking the Lord's guidance.
I know it will be amazing as we follow His lead.
Blessings,
Barbara
http://www.glutenfreehomestead.com
Lisa,
ReplyDeleteThanks for stopping in and sharing your thoughts.
Barbara,
ReplyDeleteSo often it is our daily obedience that opens the next door :)
Blessings on all you do!