A Solopreneur with Physical Challenges

Since being diagnosed with Graves Disease almost 14 years ago, I've lived with a predictably unpredictable physical condition. Rapid and steep energy fluctuations are common and metabolism or lack thereof makes exercise and weight loss seem impossible.

I've learned to live with these challenges and make contributions to my community in spite of them, but there are days, like today, that are just complete down days. I have not been able to get moving and my brain is foggy no matter the mindfulness exercises or yoga that I throw at it.

In this Coffee Break, I want to offer some encouragement to others who are faced with similar challenges and limitations. One-year, three-year, and five-year plans feel like exercises in futility when we don't know from one day to the next what we're going to have to work with. But I still think we can find ways to work with what we've got.

In my case, I know that I will have days like today where I have to move slowly, rest more than usual, and let certain goals wait until I can actually face them. I'll take the dog on slower and shorter walks, I'll cut corners in the kitchen, and let other people do the dishes. In my work, I have the same kinds of choices to make.

If you're facing similar circumstances, I feel ya. More than anything else I want you to know that you're not alone and that there are others among us facing similar and sometimes even more challenging circumstances and they're still finding ways to flourish. We can only do the best we can do with the circumstances we're in, and sometimes a four-nap day is in order.

#solopreneur #freelancer #selfcare