For individuals with a disability, the journey toward professional fulfillment is often more challenging due to the various barriers and stigmas. However, with determination and the right resources, it is possible to start a new business or career and achieve your career aspirations - here are a few tips to get you started.
Research and Preparation:
When it comes to embarking on or transitioning towards a passion-led career, it’s important to first be clear about your interests and how viable these may be for a professional career. A good way to start is by researching base salaries and checking whether these are sufficient for living. You may also look into job postings and see whether there are enough opportunities on offer. If you want to take this research process a step further, you might also look into market shifts to see whether your industry will be experiencing growth by the time you’re qualified or advancing in your role.
If you don’t believe you’re qualified to apply for your desired roles, it may be worth considering a return to school - an education degree, for example, can help you to learn about instructional practice and learner development. You can consider this option if you want to be a teacher and, thanks to remote learning, fit your studies around your other responsibilities.
Entrepreneurship:
Starting a business can be a great way for an individual with a disability to pursue their passion and turn it into a profitable venture. This route of action can allow you to be your own boss and exercise greater control over your work and schedule.
There are many resources available to help disabled individuals start a business. The Small Business Administration (SBA) offers a range of programs and services to support small business owners, including those with disabilities. The SBA's Office of Disability Employment Policy (ODEP) provides information and resources for disabled entrepreneurs, including financial assistance, technical assistance, and training programs.
Other organizations, such as the National Council on Disabilities and The Viscardi Center, also offer resources and support for disabled individuals looking to start a business. These organizations can provide guidance on business planning, financing, and marketing, as well as connect disabled entrepreneurs with mentors and networking opportunities.
Job Searching:
In addition to starting a business, you may want to pursue your passions by seeking a career in standard employment. While finding a job can be challenging for disabled individuals, there are also resources available in this area to help you succeed in your search.
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), which prohibits discrimination against disabled individuals in the workplace, requires employers to provide reasonable accommodations for disabled employees. The ADA also requires employers to make their facilities and programs accessible to disabled individuals. You can check out their disability rights guide online.
Other resources include vocational rehabilitation programs (which provide counseling, training, and job placement services) and the Ticket to Work program, which helps disabled individuals access employment and vocational rehabilitation services.
You may also want to seek out organizations that support and advocate for disabled individuals in the workplace, such as the National Council on Disabilities and the Disability Rights and Resources Center. These organizations can provide information and support on finding employment, negotiating accommodations, and advocating for disability rights in the workplace.
Whatever your background, economic status, and disability, it’s important to put your dreams first. With the right support, there should be nothing to hold you back from achieving what you most desire and building a career that you can be proud of.
Living life one-handed is challenging. At One Hand Review, we provide product reviews and a blog for ideas to help you navigate one-handed living. Learn more at: www.onehandreview.com
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