Today we have a little guest post all about MS and work! For some, working with chronic illness is not a possibility, but for others, it can be, and knowing these tips can definitely help. 🙂 xxx
Here is Dizzy making a list of her strengths… 🙂 xx
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When it comes to work, you can either go self-employed, or have a traditional career. The trick for either of these is to take into account your needs so you can find (or create) and secure a role that works with your needs and builds on your strengths.
Make A List Of Your Daily Needs And Health-Related Commitments
How many times a day do you need to take medication? Do you need to eat meals or snacks at certain times in order to manage side effects? Do you need to rest during the day? How often do you need to see a doctor? Write all this information down so you when you’re searching through job sites like Practice Match you can use it to best asses how a job might fit in.
Be Honest About Your Limitations
This might include activities that need more energy or concentration than you’re able to commit to, or skills that aren’t your strongest point. Write these down and bear them in mind when looking for job opportunities.
Research Job Options
Living with chronic conditions needs a certain amount of flexibility. Depending on your health, you might need the option to work remotely some or all of the time, or a more flexible schedule. You might find the flexibility you need as a graphic designer, proofreader, software engineer, transcriber, writer, or administrative assistant.
Focus On Your Strengths
What are you good at? What do you most enjoy doing? Write this down, and compare it to your research. Remove any jobs that won’t support your needs and limitations.
Update Your Resume/CV
When you’re ready to start applying for jobs, update your resume and LinkedIn profile. Don’t just focus on your relevant experience for the job you’re applying for, but also include your strong points with examples from past work. If you have gaps in your career due to your health, record it as a personal leave of absence, and provide more information, if you’re comfortable to do so, in person at the interview.
Know Your Rights
As you do more research into your options and submit applications, make sure that you know your rights. There are laws in most countries that prohibit companies from discriminating against candidates on the basis of disability.
Build Out Your Support System
While you’re looking for the right job for you, make sure you have a circle of trusted people to encourage you and offer support and advice if you need it. Don’t be afraid to lean on these people during the ups and downs of job hunting.
Some fantastic tips, Dizzy! I think getting your mind around what you can do, as well as what the limitations are, can help with getting a better idea of what you can realistically look to do. While I can’t go back to a regular job yet, it’s taken a long time to get accustomed to working from home on a self-employed basis earning peanuts. But there are different options out there and you make some really good suggestions for the journey back to work, as well as being aware of your rights, which is very important with any illness or disability. Sadly not all employers are fair or supportive, but there are good eggs out there that will be too. xx
There are. I have had both experiences, and although some people aren’t that nice about it, others are amazing! xx Do you work from home? What do you do? xxx
Right now, the work-at-home situation due to COVID is good for those who have MS or any other malady that makes it difficult to get around in Winter’s often dicey and icy weather and the lack of commute time gives a little extra time for sleeping or relaxing – less stress in the day.
It’s true! I love the extra nap times. 🙂 xx