How to Navigate Chronic Illness While Managing a Business

Navigating a chronic illness like psoriasis while pursuing entrepreneurship is a different kind of beast. I am unsure if it's my Gemini personality that dons the wonder woman cape, but she can do anything. And yes, she can but it's HARD. I am one to always push through to pursue my dreams. So, though I live with a chronic condition, I don't let it hinder me. Everyone is different, and each person has their own capacity. So for me, learning what my capacity is has become incredibly important in my entrepreneurial journey.

Over time, I have created ways to still manage my businesses despite the difficult challenges I face. If you are thinking of entrepreneurship and live with a chronic condition it's not impossible. Here are some ways you too can manage business, life and your illness.

My top 5 tips

First and foremost, prioritizing self care is a must. Self care sometimes is taking that long 4 hour nap. It's completely ok. Having a set routine is critical, and be very clear on boundaries when it comes to work. Don't skimp on nourishing your body from the inside out. Prioritizing yourself gives you the energy you need to push through your day to day and business goals.

Secondly, if you have the capability build a small team or outsource projects. Delegate, delegate, and if you're unsure delegate. The more you delegate tasks the less there is on your plate. When you delegate you then free up time to give your energy to yourself if you need to recharge.

Third, be flexible with yourself. Some days you will feel like a rockstar, and can crush all of your goals. Other days you may have a flare and can barely move. Give yourself grace, and be realistic. Prioritize any tasks that you have in order of importance to get things done. If you are a solo-preneur here's where outsourcing even on a project basis may be best.

Fourth, get involved in entrepreneurial communities. You may find others there that have similar challenges and can offer you advice and support. Facebook has tons of communities online, if you don't see one start your own. Remember your support network is not only friends and family, but can extend beyond into other networking communities.

And finally, number five, use technology to support you along the way. Specifically, I am speaking of tools such as automation and tracking systems. Technology can be your best friend and awesome business partner if you allow it. Learn as much as you can about different programs that can make your workload easier. You can schedule emails, have set reminders and even schedule social media posts. Using these systems to your advantage helps twofold. It can help streamline things in your business, and it can keep things flowing even on days you don't feel your best.

Always remember this...

There will be highs and lows that come with owning your own business. Many of us experience flares due to stress or anxiety. My bonus tip would be to consult with a business coach. If it's stress and anxiety you are dealing with, attending therapy sessions can be extremely helpful. You don't want the challenges you may encounter as a start up be the catalyst for your health shifting. Know when to seek help when you need it the most.

I myself lean on all of these tips, but I definitely can revisit one, two or all five of them! We all should have the opportunity to pursue our goals, passions and dreams.  Having a chronic condition can make things difficult, but that's where resilience comes in. Listen to your body at all times, take the time you need and when you can get back up again. Ask for help, find supports, expand your community and take take care of yourself inside and out. There are no limits on what we can do if we take the time to prioritize ourselves.

Are there any business owners out there also living with a chronic condition that can offer your own tips or  words of advice? I myself could definitely add to my toolkit. What would you say to anyone who is thinking of starting their own business and managing a chronic condition? Do you think it can work? I'm really interested in hearing all of your thoughts!