YOUR REVIEW YOUR REVIEW
One Minute Reset
by Heidi Horne
The timing couldn’ t have been better for discovering this book. As someone supporting capacity-conscious solo operators while running my own virtual operations business, I’ m constantly seeking tools that fit into packed schedules without adding mental load.
I’ ll admit I was sceptical – most productivity books are either overcomplicated systems requiring a PA to implement or full of toxic‘ rise and grind’ energy. But Horne surprised me. She shows that you don’ t need complete life overhauls to feel less frazzled; just better tools and permission to use them.
The breathwork techniques alone justify the read. Box breathing, extended exhales and alternate nostril breathing can be done discreetly at your desk, in the car before meetings or walking between appointments. For those juggling multiple executives’ calendars and absorbing everyone’ s urgency, having a literal reset button is game-changing.
The relationships section was unexpectedly crucial for EAs. We’ re often the glue holding teams together, managing relationships in all directions. The one-minute listening reset has already shifted how I show up in difficult conversations.
The book also tackles imposter syndrome refreshingly. Knowing you can interrupt thought spirals in 60 seconds is powerful for anyone who’ s felt like they’ re winging it.
I’ d absolutely recommend this to fellow EAs – think of it as essential toolkit for overwhelm management.
Amber Field is a virtual assistance consultant at Operation Support
The Hardiness Effect
by Dr Paul Taylor
As an EA operating in constant motion with competing priorities and shifting deadlines, I was immediately drawn to The Hardiness Effect. Like many EAs, I pride myself on staying flexible under pressure and wanted practical ways to strengthen those skills.
The book is concise and organised, filled with real-world examples that translate easily into administrative work. Its key message – that resilience is a capability you can build through deliberate mindset shifts and habits – felt especially relevant to the EA role. The emphasis on reframing challenges, staying proactive and consciously choosing responses to pressure reinforced my existing beliefs about thriving in high-pressure environments.
What genuinely shifted my thinking was the section exploring hardiness as a leadership trait. Rather than positioning resilience as purely personal survival, Taylor reframes it as providing stability, confidence and clarity for others. This resonated strongly because EAs work behind the scenes yet shape team tone and effectiveness daily. Seeing resilience framed as leadership impact was both validating and motivating.
This book is worth reading for busy professionals who’ ll actually reflect rather than skim for quick tips. Its sharp format and actionable strategies make it accessible, reinforcing the value of resilience, mental discipline and proactive thinking.
Yuki Park is EA at George & Matilda Eyecare
Summer Issue 2026 | Executive PA 57