Did you Retire Early due to Lipedema, mobility, fatigue? Remote Work Can Reopen the Door

Hi friends!

Lipedema can be a thief. It can steal your mobility, your energy, and sometimes, it can even steal your career. For many women, the relentless pain, fatigue and discomfort associated with lipedema make traditional (and stressful) work environments unbearable, forcing early retirement. But what if there was a way to reclaim your professional life on your own terms? Enter the wonderful world of remote work!

A Second Chance: The rise of remote work opportunities presents a game-changer for women with lipedema who have left the workforce. Suddenly, the limitations of a physical office melt away, replaced by the flexibility and comfort of a home workspace. This opens doors for experienced professionals to re-enter the workforce, utilize their skills, and contribute their talents without sacrificing their well-being.

Tailored to Your Needs: The beauty of remote work is its adaptability. You can design your workday around your body’s needs. Struggling with morning stiffness? Start your day later. Need to take frequent breaks for compression garment adjustments or walks to manage swelling? Remote work allows you to do that without guilt or awkward explanations.

Experience is Priceless: Let’s face it, many women forced into early retirement by lipedema have a wealth of experience and knowledge. Remote work environments are increasingly valuing this very asset. So, don’t underestimate the power you bring to the table, even if it’s been a while since you were in a traditional office setting.

Making the Leap: Thinking about taking the plunge back into the workforce? Here are some tips to get you started:

• Skills Audit: Take stock of your skills and experience. What are you passionate about? What are you good at? Identifying your strengths will help you target the right remote opportunities.
• Brush Up: Is there any online training or certification that could enhance your skillset and make you a more competitive candidate?
• Network Virtually: LinkedIn and other online platforms are great for connecting with professionals in your field. Let people know you’re open to remote work opportunities.
• Start Small: Consider freelance work or contract positions to test the waters of remote work before diving back into a full-time role.

Have you considered re-entering the workforce in some way?  Let us know!

If you are thinking about working again, prioritize your health! Don’t be afraid to set boundaries and communicate your needs to potential employers. It’s OK to ask for a longer lunch break, or work at your own pace as long as you get it done type work.  Consider charging by the project vs. an hourly rate. The right remote work opportunity will respect your condition and allow you to shine.  For me, I needed to be in a much less stressful environment and spend WAY less time commuting out of state to sit in an empty office.  I also need time to take breaks for rest and self care that’s required of lipedema.  I’m slowly figuring out work again but definitely on my terms.  Right now, I’m working for myself and have opened a consulting company.  But as I brainstorm, I’m sharing a list of some ideas:

Working for someone else ideas…

1. Virtual Assistant: These skilled professionals provide administrative, technical, or creative assistance remotely to clients. They can utilize their experience managing projects, scheduling, communication, and organization. (https://www.indeed.com/m/jobs?q=Virtual+Assistant)

2. Content Writer/Editor: Experienced professionals can leverage their writing and editing skills to create website content, blog posts, marketing materials, or edit existing documents. Platforms like Upwork and Fiverr offer freelance writing opportunities. (https://www.upwork.com/, https://www.fiverr.com/)

3. Social Media Manager: Women with strong communication and marketing skills can manage social media accounts for businesses, crafting engaging content and interacting with followers. (https://www.indeed.com/q-social-media-manager-jobs.html)

4. Online Tutor/Teacher: If you have expertise in a particular subject or industry, you can use online platforms to tutor students or teach online courses. Sites like VIPKid or Cambly connect tutors with students worldwide. (https://www.vipkid.com/, https://www.cambly.com/en/tutors)

5. Transcriptionist: This role involves converting audio or video recordings into written text. Companies like TranscribeMe or Rev offer remote transcription jobs. (https://www.transcribeme.com/, https://www.rev.com/)

6. Bookkeeper/Accountant: Women with experience in accounting can manage financial records remotely for businesses. Platforms like Xero or Quickbooks offer online bookkeeping tools. (https://www.xero.com/, https://quickbooks.intuit.com/)

7. Customer Service Representative: Many companies offer remote customer service positions where you can provide support via phone, email, or chat. (https://www.indeed.com/q-Customer-Service-Representative-jobs.html)

8. Human Resources Consultant: HR professionals can offer remote consulting services to businesses, assisting with recruitment, onboarding, or employee relations.

9. Grant Writer: If you have experience with grant proposals, you can offer grant writing services to non-profit organizations or research institutions.

10. Data Entry Specialist: This role involves entering data into computer systems remotely. While the work can be repetitive, it can be a good option for those who enjoy accuracy and detail-oriented tasks. (https://www.indeed.com/q-data-entry-jobs.html)

And working for self…

1. Handmade Crafts & Goods: If you’re creative and enjoy making things, turn your hobby into a business! Sell your knitted scarves, hand-painted ceramics, or custom jewelry online through Etsy or your own website.

2. Baked Goods & Treats: Have a secret family recipe for delicious cookies or mouthwatering pies? Consider offering homemade treats for local delivery or pick-up. Platforms like Facebook Marketplace or neighborhood social groups can help spread the word.

3. Consulting Services: Leverage your professional experience. Whether you’re a retired accountant offering bookkeeping services or a former marketing director providing consulting to small businesses, your expertise can be valuable to others.

4. Virtual Coaching/Mentoring: If you have a passion for personal development, health and wellness, or a specific skill set, offer virtual coaching or mentoring services. Utilize platforms like Zoom or video conferencing software to connect with clients remotely.

5. Online Course Creation: Share your knowledge and expertise by creating online courses on a topic you’re passionate about. Platforms like Udemy or Skillshare offer tools to create and sell your course content.

6. Freelance Writing/Editing: Do you have a knack for writing and a keen eye for detail? Offer freelance writing or editing services to businesses, bloggers, or online publications. Platforms like Upwork or Fiverr connect freelancers with clients.

7. Social Media Management for Local Businesses: Help local businesses manage their social media presence by creating engaging content, scheduling posts, and interacting with followers.

8. Home-Based Childcare: If you have a nurturing spirit and enjoy caring for children, consider offering home-based childcare services. Be sure to check local licensing and insurance requirements.

9. Virtual Bookkeeping/Accounting: Put your accounting skills to use by offering remote bookkeeping services to small businesses or individuals. Cloud-based accounting software allows you to manage your clients’ finances from the comfort of your home.

10. Blogging & Affiliate Marketing: If you have a passion for a particular topic, start a blog and share your knowledge. Once you’ve established your audience, you can explore affiliate marketing opportunities by promoting relevant products or services.

What other ideas do you have?  Maybe your idea will help someone else?  There’s plenty of room in the marketplace for lots of people so competition is good and not to be feared!

Lipedema may have forced you to step away from your career, but remote work offers a chance to rewrite the narrative. So, dust off your resume, embrace the flexibility of the remote work revolution, and get ready to reclaim your professional power!

I’m interested in your story.  Let us know or drop me a line at legslikemine@gmail.com!

Susan