Self-employment allows people to customize their work experience specifically for themselves with the ability to design a workspace that accommodates those needs. That makes self-employment perfect for disabled individuals who need more flexibility. Self-employment offers a more accommodating working environment than what is typically offered by employers today. In general, there has been an increase in disability entrepreneurs, as this trend is expected to rise. In this article, we look at the pros and cons of self-employment for people with a disability.

Advantages Of Self-Employment For People With Disability

Freedom To Create Your Schedule

Self-employment allows you to curate your working hours and gives you flexibility. You don’t have to wake and rush to the office. Your office can be anywhere depending on what your business entails. For people with disabilities, self-employment is an empowering way to live life on one’s own terms.

Being In Charge Of Your Business

As a disabled person, starting your own business is liberating and scary at the same time. You get to be in charge of all your deadlines but you’re also responsible for employing other people who depend on how well you do as their boss.

You Get To Work From Anywhere

For a disabled person, life is sweeter when they don’t need to drive around for an hour each way every day just for a job. When you have your own business you get to choose to work from a few days of the week.

Grow Your Network

The best way to grow your network is by running your own business. When you are employed and spend the day in one location, it’s more difficult for new people to find out about who you are. As a disabled person, this helps with networking opportunities.

Develop A Broad Range Of Skills

As you run and manage your business you develop a broad range of skills like bookkeeping and marketing.

Disadvantages Of Self Employment For The Disabled

There Is No Job Security

The earnings for the self-employed differ from month to month. Some months you will have a lot of money while others you may struggle. It’s important to make sure that you save some cash for the rainy days.

Lack Of Division Between Work And Home Time

When you are self-employed it could mean that office is at home. Most of the time it will be difficult to separate your home and office hours. That can have a negative impact on your general well-being.

Lose Out On Networking And Creating Friendships

As a self-employed person with a disability, it can become increasingly difficult to meet and connect with friends. You will need more effort to find time to socialize.

You Need To Plan For Your Retirement And Pay Your Pension

Unlike when in employment, as a self-employed person you need to plan for your retirement.

The benefits of self-employment are a well-hidden gem for people with disabilities. So many disabled people face daily challenges. Inaccessible transportation to work or lengthy commutes make it difficult not only for themselves but their families as well and that makes self-employment a welcome relief.