by Kara | Mar 31, 2025 | Thought Leadership
By Kara Roberts
CEO, Pepper’s Personal Assistants
Are you intentional about building the life you want?
There’s always something to do. A decision to make, a responsibility to attend to, an email to draft. The never-ending list of seemingly critical tasks can make it easy to go through life on autopilot.
But what if you chose differently? What if you create a life aligned with your passions, values, and desires?
My life transformed when I made the intentional choice to design the life I truly wanted and prioritize myself. I downsized, put my belongings in storage, and embarked on my nomad journey to work from around the world. It wasn’t always easy, and I didn’t have a clear roadmap or the perfect support system in place. But I figured it out along the way.
That experience showed me just how possible change can be when you commit to it. If you’re ready to build a life that excites you, I’m here to help.
Life Before the Nomad Journey
For decades, my life revolved around responsibilities to others. I was a mother, business owner, and leader who was so focused on everyone else that I lost touch with what I truly needed.
When my youngest son was applying to universities, I started reflecting on what this next phase of my life could look like. I knew I was stepping into an entirely new chapter, filled with excitement about the opportunities and freedom that came with being an empty nester.
At first, I wasn’t sure, but the question kept surfacing: What if I took this opportunity to finally put myself first?
Having Fondue at Lötschberg in Bern, Switzerland
Taking the Leap
It started with a single trip to visit a friend in Germany. Initially I thought extending the trip longer felt too indulgent. But as I planned, the thought shifted. Why not see where the road takes me? What better time to embrace change? I couldn’t think of a good reason not to. When I feel equal parts excited and nervous I know I’m on the right track. It’s the sweet spot of life!
That three-month trip turned into an indefinite journey of travel and experiencing new cultures. And along the way, I discovered something: I’m happiest when I am traveling and exploring.
Navigating the Unknown
As exhilarating as it was, stepping into this new chapter wasn’t without doubts. What about the time differences? What if something went wrong?
But I knew that this was what I was meant to be doing at this stage in my life. More importantly, I knew that I had to figure out how to make it work, especially keeping the business running in my absence. It wasn’t always smooth—there were challenges, adjustments, and plenty of learning along the way. But my team and I adapted, and over time, we found a way forward.
How Life Has Transformed
During my travels, I rediscovered myself in ways I hadn’t expected. I explored new cultures, learned to navigate public transportation in foreign languages, and embraced a lifestyle of mindfulness and self-care. I faced challenges—like getting injured while abroad—but each experience reinforced my resilience. I also witnessed how my absence empowered my team to step up, allowing the business to evolve in ways I hadn’t anticipated.
Enjoying a Gluhwein with friends as the Christmas Market season opens in Freiburg, Germany
Traveling pushed me to rediscover what I truly wanted in each moment. Sometimes that was exploring a new village, meditating, or simply slowing down.
And now, I’m more committed than ever to helping others prioritize themselves and create a life they love.
Creating the Life You Want
There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to designing a life that feels fulfilling. For me, it meant reconnecting with my adventurous side, embracing uncertainty, saying yes to the unknown, and choosing a lifestyle that aligned with what I truly wanted.
For others, it might mean dedicating time to a passion project, focusing on wellness, or learning to say “no” without guilt. The common thread? Intentionally prioritizing yourself and making choices that align with your values, desires, and growth.
How You Can Make Space in Your Life
If you’re reading this, you might be mentally scrolling through an endless to-do list, wondering how making space for yourself is even possible. But before you take action, start by asking one simple question: Are you putting yourself last?
1. Acknowledge That You’ve Been on Autopilot
You get things done. The kids are okay. Work is handled. Life keeps moving forward. But when was the last time you paused and checked in with yourself?
Maybe your days blur together, each one feeling the same as the last. Maybe hobbies, interests, and passions have been quietly pushed aside in favor of responsibilities. Maybe the thought of truly relaxing—even for a moment—feels out of reach.
Ask yourself:
- Do I make time for things that bring me joy?
- When was the last time I did something just because I wanted to, not because I had to?
- Do I feel like I’m living my life or just going through the motions?
Before making changes, simply sit with these questions. Awareness is the first step.
2. Identify What Fills Your Cup
Your needs matter. And if you’ve spent years pouring into others, it might take time to remember what genuinely fulfills you.
- What activities make you feel energized and alive? Writing? Biking? Gardening?
- When do you feel most at peace? Is it during morning solitude, a quiet coffee break, or deep conversations with loved ones?
- Make a list of small and big things that bring you joy and schedule them in.
For me, it’s been meditation, learning to say no without guilt, and embracing rest as a necessity, not a luxury. My morning routine when I’m traveling is 2.5 hours long. I’m trying to figure out how to do that when I’m back in the same time zone as my work and family obligations. Meditating, a healthy breakfast and daily movement are non-negotiables.
3. Recognize What’s Draining Your Energy
Sometimes, the problem isn’t a lack of time but an excess of things that deplete you.
- Which commitments feel more like burdens than responsibilities?
- Are there relationships that take more than they give?
- What’s keeping you in a cycle of exhaustion?
Once you pinpoint these energy drains, it’s easier to decide what stays and what goes.
4. Set Boundaries Without Guilt
Saying no is an act of self-care. Protect your time and energy by:
- Declining commitments that don’t align with your priorities.
- Limiting access to people who drain you emotionally or mentally.
- Resisting the urge to over-explain when setting limits. Remember, “No” is a complete sentence.
5. Get Support & Outsource Where You Can
You don’t have to do it all. And frankly, you shouldn’t.
Outsource as much as you can afford. Along the way, I hired experts who could either teach me new skills or handle tasks more efficiently and effectively than I could. It freed up my energy for what actually mattered.
Are You Ready to Take the First Step?
Embracing this nomadic lifestyle showed me that when I am rested, attuned to my needs, and prioritizing movement, nutrition, and joy, magic happens all around me. I show up better for my family, my friends, my business, and most importantly, myself. I still struggle with feeling guilty for not being everything to everybody or even just my family. I have to remind myself all the time that self care isn’t selfish and focusing on my mental and physical health is in the best interest of those important to me—and me!
And while your journey may look different from mine, I know you can relate. Think back to the last time you felt truly in flow. I bet it wasn’t when you were bogged down with responsibilities.
So, what’s stopping you from taking your first step in building a life you can enjoy?
How Pepper’s Personal Assistants Can Help You Reclaim Your Space
If you’re ready to make time for yourself a priority, Pepper’s Personal Assistants can help.
Our personal assistants provide a proactive, reliable support system that allows you to step back from the endless responsibilities that can weigh you down.
We manage:
Whether that’s finally having a moment to breathe, spending quality time with family, or focusing on your passions without distraction, the right support system makes all the difference.
Let’s chat about how we can free you up for you.
by Kara | Oct 24, 2024 | General, Home, Organizational, Outsourcing, Residential
Have you ever imagined having someone take care of all those tasks that consume your day? Let’s dive into a typical day in the life of a personal assistant and see how they can bring ease and simplicity to your life.
9:00 AM – Setting the Tone for the Day
Your household assistant arrives, bringing a sense of calm and focus as they prepare to tackle the day. They begin by reviewing your schedule and to-do list, scanning your communication channels for any pressing matters. With a load of laundry started, the house tidied up, and a shopping list prepared, they ensure that your day flows smoothly, leaving you free to focus on what truly matters.
10:00 AM – Running Those Never-Ending Errands
Picture your personal assistant expertly navigating their route, efficiently checking off your errands. Need groceries, dry cleaning picked up, or a special gift sourced? Your assistant handles it all with care and by the time they return, your errands are complete and you haven’t had to lift a finger.
12:00 PM – Bringing Meals to Life
Your kitchen becomes a haven of culinary creativity as your personal assistant whips up meals tailored just for you. Whether it’s a favorite family recipe or something new to delight your taste buds, they handle the cooking and also the clean-up, that way you can enjoy the delicious results without the hassle. Imagine coming home to the comforting aroma of a home-cooked meal, ready to be enjoyed together.
1:00 PM – Keeping Your Home in Perfect Order
As the afternoon unfolds, your personal assistant keeps things running smoothly. The kitchen and dining areas are cleaned, laundry is folded, every room is tidied up and trash is taken out. By the time they’re done, your home is a sanctuary of order and tranquility.
2:00 PM – Managing Life’s Details
Your personal assistant is on the phone coordinating every last detail for your upcoming event. Whether it’s organizing a special occasion, overseeing a home improvement project, or arranging travel plans, they manage it all with thoughtful precision. You just rest easy knowing that every aspect is handled, leaving you free to enjoy the moments that matter.
4:00 PM – Wrapping Up the Day
As the day winds down, your personal assistant makes sure everything is in place, leaving your home in perfect order. They’ll be back tomorrow or any other day, ready to pick up where they left off with the same dedication and care.
At Pepper’s Personal Assistants, we understand that every home is unique, which is why we tailor our services to meet your specific needs and schedule. By welcoming a personal assistant into your life, you can let go of the daily tasks that drain your time and energy, allowing you to focus on what truly matters.
Ready to simplify your life? Contact us today or schedule a call to learn more about how Pepper’s Personal Assistants can bring ease and joy to your life.
by Kara | Sep 18, 2024 | Home, Outsourcing, Parenting, Residential
The start of a new school year is an exciting time, but it can also bring a host of challenges, especially for busy parents trying to balance work, family, and school-related responsibilities. This balancing act can be overwhelming, leading to stress and fatigue. Fortunately, a personal assistant can provide the support and help you need to thrive during this hectic period. By managing school-related tasks, organizing after-school activities, and taking care of household responsibilities, a personal assistant allows busy parents to focus on what matters most—their careers and their families.
Simplifying Morning Routines
Mornings are often the most chaotic time of day for families, with parents juggling breakfast, school drop-offs, and their own work preparations. Studies have shown that a well-organized morning routine can significantly reduce stress levels and improve overall family well-being. A household personal assistant can help by preparing breakfast, packing lunches, and ensuring that everything your children need for school is ready to go. This assistance not only streamlines the morning process but also allows parents to start their day calmly and with a clear mind.
Managing School-Related Tasks
Parents often struggle to keep track of the myriad school-related tasks that come with a new academic year, from signing permission slips to remembering important dates like parent-teacher conferences. According to a survey by Pew Research, 74% of working parents report that managing these responsibilities is a significant source of stress. A house manager can take over these tasks, ensuring that all forms are signed, all deadlines are met, and that you are always up-to-date with your child’s school activities. This level of support allows you to stay organized without the constant pressure of managing every detail.
Organizing After-School Activities
As the school year progresses, after-school activities become a central part of children’s routines. Whether it’s sports, music lessons, or club meetings, coordinating these activities can be challenging, especially for parents with multiple children. A personal assistant can handle the logistics of after-school activities. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, participation in extracurricular activities is linked to higher academic performance and better behavioral outcomes, making it crucial for parents to ensure their children can participate without the added stress of coordination.
Supporting Work-Life Balance
Achieving a healthy work-life balance is a common goal for many parents, yet it often feels elusive. A report from the American Psychological Association found that 70% of working parents experience stress related to balancing their career and family responsibilities. A personal assistant can play a pivotal role in achieving this balance by taking over household chores and school-related tasks, allowing parents to focus more on their careers and personal lives. Whether it’s preparing for an important work meeting or enjoying a family outing, a Seattle personal assistant enables you to prioritize what matters most.
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Enhancing Family Time
One of the most significant benefits of having a personal assistant is the opportunity to spend more quality time with your family. With the daily grind of chores and errands managed by a professional, parents can dedicate more time to engaging with their children, whether it’s helping with homework, attending their soccer games, or simply enjoying a meal together. Research from the Journal of Marriage and Family indicates that increased family time leads to better emotional and behavioral outcomes for children, underscoring the importance of freeing up time for these interactions. For more insights on how a personal assistant can enhance your family life, explore here our other blog posts.
Reducing Parental Stress
The constant pressure to manage both work and family responsibilities can lead to significant stress, which can negatively impact both parents and children. A personal assistant in Seattle can alleviate much of this stress by handling the day-to-day tasks that often cause overwhelm. Whether it’s coordinating last-minute school changes or ensuring that the household runs smoothly, a personal assistant provides peace of mind, allowing parents to focus on their well-being and their family’s happiness.
Creating a Supportive Home Environment
A well-organized and clean home is essential for maintaining a peaceful and supportive environment, particularly during the busy school year. A personal assistant can help maintain this environment by managing household chores, organizing spaces, and ensuring that everything is in its place. Research from Princeton University found that cluttered environments can negatively impact an individual’s ability to focus and process information, highlighting the importance of a tidy home. By managing these tasks, a household manager ensures that your home remains a sanctuary from the outside world’s stresses.
Investing in Your Family’s Well-Being
Ultimately, hiring a personal assistant in Seattle is more than just a convenience—it’s an investment in your family’s overall well-being. By taking care of the details, a personal assistant allows you to focus on what truly matters: your career, your family, and your personal growth. The benefits extend far beyond the practical; they create a ripple effect that improves the overall quality of life for everyone in your household. If you’re ready to enhance your family’s life and achieve true balance, consider the advantages of hiring a personal assistant today. With their support, you can navigate the challenges of daily life with confidence and ease, ensuring that your family is well-prepared and thriving throughout the school year.
Balancing the demands of a new school year with work and family responsibilities can be challenging, but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Pepper’s personal assistants can provide the support you need to navigate this busy time with ease. From managing morning routines to coordinating extracurricular activities, a personal assistant can help you focus on what truly matters—your family’s well-being.
Ready to take the next step? Schedule a call with us today here to explore how our services can help your family thrive this school year.
by Kara | Aug 30, 2024 | Home, News, Organizational, Parenting, Residential
As the back-to-school season approaches, many families in Seattle find themselves juggling hectic schedules, from morning routines to after-school activities. Imagine a typical day: The alarm goes off, and you rush to get the kids dressed, fed, and out the door. But what if your mornings didn’t have to be so chaotic? That’s what a personal home assistant can help you with.
With a Pepper’s personal assistant, your mornings can start on a much calmer note. A personal home assistant can prepare breakfast, pack lunches, and ensure that backpacks are ready to go, giving you time to focus on starting your day without the stress. They can also manage your calendar, coordinating school drop-offs, work meetings, and even after-school activities, ensuring everything runs like clockwork.
In the afternoon, while you’re at work, your household personal assistant could be running errands like picking up school supplies or handling grocery shopping. When it’s time for after-school activities, they assist by preparing everything your children need for soccer practice or dance class, so you can ensure they’re ready and on time, all while staying dedicated to your professional responsibilities.
Evenings, which are often a scramble to prepare dinner and manage homework, can also be made easier. A personal home assistant can help organize your child’s study space, making sure they have a quiet, clutter-free area to focus on their schoolwork. Meanwhile, they can assist with meal prep, so you can enjoy a peaceful dinner with your family without the rush.
As the day winds down, your house personal assistant helps to plan for the next day, laying out clothes, packing bags, and ensuring everyone’s schedule is updated. By the time you head to bed, you can rest easy knowing the morning will be smooth and stress-free.
The back-to-school season is a time of excitement and anticipation, but it can also bring a whirlwind of tasks and responsibilities. From shopping for school supplies to coordinating extracurricular activities, getting everything ready can feel overwhelming. That’s where a Pepper’s personal assistant can make all the difference. Here are just 5 ways on how they can help streamline your preparations and set your family up for a successful school year.
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5 Ways a Personal Assistant Can Help You Prepare for the New School Year:
1. Back-to-School Shopping Made Simple
One of the most time-consuming tasks is shopping for school supplies, clothing, and other essentials. A personal home assistant can handle all aspects of back-to-school shopping, from creating a list based on your child’s needs to purchasing items at the best prices. They can even manage online orders, ensuring everything arrives on time. This means you can avoid crowded stores and focus on enjoying the last days of summer with your family.
2. Meal Planning and Prep for Busy School Nights
Once school starts, finding the time to prepare nutritious meals can be challenging. A household personal assistant can take charge of meal planning, grocery shopping, and even meal prep. They can create a menu tailored to your family’s preferences and dietary needs, ensuring that healthy dinners are ready with minimal effort on your part. With a personal assistant managing your kitchen, you can avoid the stress of last-minute meal planning and enjoy more family time.
3. Organizing and Coordinating Extracurricular Activities
As children return to school, extracurricular activities also kick into high gear. Whether it’s sports, music lessons, or after-school clubs, coordinating these activities can be a logistical challenge. A personal home assistant can take over the scheduling, making sure there are no conflicts and can communicate with coaches, instructors, and other parents, ensuring your child’s participation is seamless and stress-free.
4. Setting Up a Productive Homework Routine
A successful school year depends on effective study habits, and a household personal assistant can help set up a space that fosters a productive productive homework routine. They can create an organized study space for your child, ensuring they have all the supplies they need to focus on their work. By handling these important details, a personal assistant allows you to concentrate on supporting your child’s academic success without the distractions of daily household management.
5. Handling All the Small Details
Beyond the big tasks, there are countless small details that need attention during the back-to-school season. From ensuring uniforms are clean and ready to keeping track of school forms and paperwork. In Seattle, a personal household assistant can manage all these details, so nothing falls through the cracks. Their support ensures that your family is fully prepared and that the transition back to school is as smooth as possible.
As you prepare for the new school year, consider the benefits of hiring a personal assistant for your home. Whether you need help with shopping, meal planning, or managing your child’s activities, a personal assistant can provide the support you need to make this school year the best one yet. Learn more about how our services can help by visiting our blog for more tips on household management and discover the full potential of what a Pepper’s personal assistant can do for your family.
By integrating these services into your routine, you can focus on what matters most—spending quality time with your family and ensuring a smooth, stress-free start to the school year.
by Kara | Aug 21, 2024 | Business, Home, Organizational, Outsourcing, Residential
As a busy executive in Seattle, managing your time effectively is crucial. Balancing work, personal life, and social commitments can be challenging, but with the right strategies, you can optimize your schedule and achieve more. Here are ten time-saving hacks to help you stay on top of your game:
1. Use Time-Blocking Techniques
Time-blocking involves scheduling specific blocks of time for different tasks throughout your day. This method helps you stay focused and ensures that you allocate enough time for high-priority activities.
2. Leverage Technology
Utilize productivity apps like Trello, Asana, Zapier or Slack to keep track of tasks, collaborate with your team, and streamline workflows. These tools can significantly reduce the time spent on managing projects.
3. Outsource Household Tasks
Don’t try to do it all, consider hiring a housecleaner, landscaper, plumber or nanny for specific tasks at home or hire a personal assistant to handle household chores such as laundry, grocery shopping, and meal prep. This allows you to spend your free time relaxing or with your family.
4. Automate Routine Tasks
Use automation tools for routine tasks like bill payments, appointment scheduling, and email responses. Automating these tasks can save you a significant amount of time and reduce your workload.
5. Set Priorities and Stick to Them
Identify your top priorities each day and focus on completing those tasks first. This ensures that you tackle the most important activities and avoid getting sidetracked by less critical tasks.
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6. Practice the Two-Minute Rule
If a task takes less than two minutes to complete, do it immediately. This simple rule helps prevent small tasks from piling up and cluttering your to-do list.
7. Schedule Downtime
It’s essential to schedule breaks and downtime throughout your day. Short breaks can boost your productivity and prevent burnout. Use this time to relax, meditate, or take a walk.
8. Plan Your Day the Night Before
Spend a few minutes each evening planning your next day. Outline your schedule, prioritize tasks, and prepare any materials you’ll need. This practice helps you start your day with a clear plan and reduces morning stress.
9. Limit Meeting Time
Keep meetings concise and to the point. Set a clear agenda, stick to it, and avoid unnecessary discussions. This helps you make the most of your time and keeps meetings productive.
10. Delegate Tasks to a Personal Assistant
Hiring a personal assistant can be a game-changer. They can handle appointments, manage your calendar, and take care of personal errands, giving you more time to focus on your core responsibilities. Learn more about how a household manager can make a difference.
By implementing these time-saving hacks, you can enhance your productivity, reduce stress, and achieve a better work-life balance. If you’re ready to take your efficiency to the next level, get the best help you can get by hiring a Pepper’s Personal Assistant today!
