Joan Burge, pioneer of the administrative training industry, shares the five vital foundations that uphold her life
Conversations about professional growth for administrative professionals often focus on upskilling, productivity, and performance. Yet it’s important to take a moment and reflect on more profound questions:
- What truly sustains the individual behind the professional facade?
- How can we craft a life that is not merely busy, but genuinely BIG?
After over 50 years in the workforce, I’ve discovered that the key to a lasting, fulfilling, and impactful career lies in nurturing five essential areas that I refer to as the BIG Life Pillars: Career, Family, Financial, Spiritual, and Wellness.
These pillars aren’t just abstract concepts; they represent the vital foundations that uphold our lives, particularly for administrative professionals handling demanding roles. I first introduced these ideas in my book, Give Yourself Permission to Live a BIG Life, and I have further developed them through years of mentoring, coaching, and personal experiences. Join me as I explore each pillar and illustrate how, when approached with intention, these five areas can not only enhance your professional role but also enrich your entire life.
1. Career
Too often, I notice administrative professionals undervaluing their roles by referring to their work as “just a job.” Your career should never be something to merely withstand; it’s an opportunity to develop a strong foundation and create a lasting impact. The career pillar encourages you to view yourself not merely as someone who completes tasks, but as a vital strategic partner in the business.
Ask yourself:
- Have I devised a development plan?
- Am I proactively enhancing my skills to future-proof my position?
- Am I cultivating a personal brand that clearly demonstrates my value and expertise?
Career advancement isn’t a matter of luck. It demands discipline and starts with effective self-leadership. From managing your energy to leveraging your digital tools, every decision you make contributes to the strength of this pillar.
When this foundation is robust, your confidence shines through. You become more than just a key player; you evolve into a source of influence.
Your work environment plays a crucial role in your success. Take the initiative to seek feedback, connect with your peers for support, and ensure your contributions are visible to others in your organization. Consider taking on challenging projects that push your limits. Make your voice heard in meetings, and familiarize yourself with your executive’s goals to align your efforts with them. These actions aren’t just nice to have; they are vital for your career growth.
2. Family
Family goes beyond just those related by blood. It encompasses your community, your close friends, and the individuals who lift you up when times are tough and celebrate your successes alongside you. For those of us working in administrative roles, our ‘work families’ often become a significant part of this circle, those colleagues and leaders who share in our days.
Building and maintaining these vital connections takes effort, understanding, and setting boundaries.
Ask yourself:
- Who do I consider part of my close circle?
- Am I putting in the effort to nurture those relationships?
- Am I giving back as much as I receive?
When your family pillar is strong, you create a support network that revitalizes rather than drains you.
And let’s not forget about pets. Their unwavering companionship and the simple joy of a wagging tail or a soft purr can provide profound comfort and healing.
In the current landscape of remote and hybrid work, nurturing our connections takes a bit more effort. Don’t hesitate to drop a quick note, make that phone call, or set up a casual coffee chat. It’s important to keep the conversation flowing beyond just project discussions.
3. Financial
Money may not guarantee happiness, but it certainly opens up a world of choices. Gaining financial clarity is perhaps one of the best gifts you can give to yourself. Yet many professionals shy away from this essential aspect because it can feel overwhelming.
Ask yourself:
- Do I have a budget in place?
- Are my important documents easily accessible?
- Have I assigned beneficiaries, created a will, or chosen a ‘pet godparent’?
While these might seem like simple administrative tasks, they are, in fact, critical life choices.
I realized this truth personally after the loss of my husband, when I was faced with managing business entities, real estate, and digital assets. It was a challenging experience but ultimately led to significant personal growth. Don’t wait for a crisis to confront these matters. Take the time to establish this foundation now so you can enjoy peace of mind later.
Financial wellness is also about recognizing your value in the workplace.
Ask yourself:
- Am I actively negotiating my salary?
- Do I take the time to review my benefits each year?
- Have I established my retirement goals?
Many administrative professionals find themselves undervalued, not because of a lack of skills, but because they lack the advocacy to assert their worth. Take charge and empower yourself to manage not just your finances, but your financial future.
4. Spiritual
Spirituality forms the essence of a fulfilling life. It grounds us, soothes our minds, and reconnects us to our true selves, beyond our roles and daily obligations. Whether through prayer, meditation, spending time outdoors, or simply embracing moments of stillness, your spiritual practice serves as an anchor.
It helps to make sense of challenges and infuses our achievements with deeper significance. In the midst of turmoil, it brings a sense of clarity. You don’t need to undertake a long journey or retreat to a cloister. Just start with five minutes of silence each day. Consider keeping a gratitude journal. Transform thoughts of scarcity into affirmations of abundance. Remember, small changes can lead to profound shifts.
When this foundation is strong, your capacity for resilience grows.
Serving others can be a meaningful way to enhance your spiritual journey. Dedicating even a few hours each month to volunteer work can shift your perspective, reconnect you with your core values, and rejuvenate your spirit. When you uplift those around you, you also elevate your own wellbeing.
5. Wellness
Without wellness, the other pillars can’t hold up. Energy, focus, and clarity all stem from a well-balanced body and mind. Wellness encompasses everything from your diet and physical activity to your mental health, rest, and even how often you find joy in laughter.
I frequently remind my team: You can’t give your all if your cup is empty. It’s essential to invest in yourself with the same commitment you dedicate to your executive. Make that doctor’s appointment, take a walk, and don’t hesitate to say no when necessary. Prioritizing self-care isn’t just a luxury; it’s a smart choice.
Wellness is also about recognizing when it’s time for a reset. Give yourself the gift of real time off. Establish rituals to disconnect at the end of each day. Understand your boundaries and honor them. Develop habits centered on staying hydrated, moving your body, getting quality sleep, and cultivating positivity. Remember, one of the most profound acts of self-care is simply acknowledging that you are deserving of this effort.
Living a BIG Life: Bringing It All Together
Living a BIG Life is not about chasing perfection; it’s rooted in intention. The five pillars don’t need to be in a state of flawless balance all the time. Life has its rhythms. Some pillars might require more care during certain periods, and that’s perfectly fine.
What truly matters is your awareness.
Ask yourself:
- Am I pushing hard in my career but overlooking my health?
- Am I focused on caring for others while ignoring my financial responsibilities?
This self-reflection brings clarity. Clarity leads to choices, and those choices pave the way for meaningful change.
I encourage you to evaluate your own five pillars. Rate each one on a scale from 1 to 7.
Ask yourself:
- How strong is each pillar today?
- Which one deserves more attention?
- What’s a small, manageable step I can take?
You are the architect of your own life. The five BIG Life pillars serve as your blueprint. When you build with intention, you create a life filled with both success and depth.
That’s the essence of administrative excellence.
