You realize quickly that life goes on regardless of anyone knowing that you now have a chronic illness. So, after the world has stopped spinning and you’re able to recalibrate, you’re faced with the decision to continue working as per usual or shift. Having a long-term illness can lead to extended periods away from work many of us. We usually do not have much choice in this, as our conditions can catch us off guard with unexpected drops in energy, strength decreases or the onset of pain. As much as this is not usually our fault, we can be penalized for this in our careers.

Some employers may be more understanding and keep job positions open, working with their employees to modify job roles when necessary, to slowly transition them back into work. It’s important to mention here that there are several government-based programs for people with chronic illnesses to be aware of regarding how companies must make accommodations in these types of situations. Other times long periods away from work can lead to one losing their job role, creating an employment gap that makes it more difficult to get rehired again.

At some point, most of us with a chronic illness will not be able to perform work-related tasks in any capacity. However, when your strength allows it, taking proactive measures will help you to improve your marketability within the world of work. There are actions steps you can pursue which can create a potential lifeline for your career. At the same time, they will help you to re-establish a sense of purpose and slowly reengage you with the outside world.

8 Benefits of Freelancing

Freelancing is one of the actions steps that can create a lifeline back into the wold world of work for you. As a freelancer, you are essentially self-employed but carrying out contracted work for a company. Even if you are someone who has managed to stay with their full-time employer during illness, this is a backup option, which is worth considering. Depending on your strength and energy levels, there are tremendous advantages for people with long term conditions. Based on our research and experience, here are 8 of them:

1. Income

This may seem like an obvious advantage, but it should not be overlooked. Chronic illness can be a time of financial insecurity. Unlike other forms of career-related action steps, such as networking or volunteering, freelancing earns you income.

2. Flexibility

Freelancing often allows you to work your schedule, which can be vital when dealing with an illness.  You can schedule your working day in accordance with your energy levels and rest when needed. Sometimes this can be as little as one hour a day. This will save you energy in the long run. As long you get the work done, most organizations you work with will not complain.  

3. Work from Home

This also provides you with the opportunity to take a rest when necessary. Working from home means that both your bed and couch are easily accessible. When you are working you can do so in more comfort. You will not have to carry medication around at work with you, but rather store it safely at home. Perhaps the best part is not having to deal with a commute with can be stressful and energy draining.

4. Power Balance

Working as a freelancer makes the balance of power slightly more equal, as compared to when you are working as a company employee. You indeed forfeit certain employee protections. However, the dynamic changes with you as a business owner and the company as your client, as opposed to you as the worker and the company as your boss. This can feel more empowering.

5. Autonomy

Freelancing means that you work independently. You can act in a far more self-determined way, with more creative control over how you work. This is good for motivation.

6. Less Stress

As well as avoid the rush hour commute, you do not have to deal with company meetings, tension with work colleagues and organizational politics. Freelancing in general is less stressful than regular work. This will benefit your health.

7. Other Freelance Opportunities

By working freelance, you are not restricted to working with one company. Clients may refer you to other businesses they work in partnership with. Building a solid reputation as a consummate freelancer can attract new clients if you have the energy and bandwidth to take them on.

8. Employment Opportunities

If you still have the desire to work full time again one day, freelancing will enhance your chances. It will give you a foot in the door with the company you are working with. They may consider you for full-time work, having already proven yourself. Alternatively, working freelance will show other potential employers that you have been active within their industry. They will be more open to hiring you full time, in comparison to someone who has not been active. The important thing is to find companies who may be looking for freelancers, but also remain realistic about what you are physically able to undertake.

We invite you to share your feedback with us. Have you tried any of these before? Have you tried anything different? What has worked for you? What has not worked?

Is there anything else you would like for us to cover?

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Our website is www.illnesscoaching.com

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As always, if you are experiencing any severe medical or psychological symptoms, we always recommend you speak directly to a qualified professional.

Thank you for checking in with us and we’ll see you again soon.