Finding Balance Between Work and Health

Working with sickle cell can be really tough.

Uncertainty

I say this because of the unpredictable nature of sickle cell disorder. This minute you're fine, the next you're in pain trying to find your way to the hospital. Sometimes it's the reality of a sudden complication that is hitting you hard in the face and you have to adjust your life.

All of these can affect your work life and career.

Finding balance

But does that mean you would give up on work? Definitely not because the bill won't stop coming, it doesn't care whether you have sickle cell or not.

Finding a balance between work and sickle cell can make a huge difference in your health as well as your career.

Here are some tips to help you find that balance.

1. Let supervisors know your sickle cell status

I understand that sometimes we don't want to disclose our sickle cell status to everyone. That's fine. But it is important to let a few in your workplace know especially your boss.

Let them know you have a health condition that needs to be managed. Also, let them know how sickle cell affects you personally because sickle cell affects us differently. It could be that you might need to stay away from the air conditioner or take a stroll after hours of sitting.

If possible let them know how often you get crisis and tell them what they can do to help when you have one at work.

Just make sure you give them a hint of what it's like for you to live with sickle cell.

2. Consider working remotely

It's 2021, I think every company should allow their workers to work remotely. Ask your employer if working remotely is an option. This is an important question to ask especially before accepting the job.

Remote working means:

• Working from anywhere
• Sometimes choosing the time to work
• Finding the time to rest

This will have a great positive impact on your health because it means less work stress.

3. Explore remote or online jobs

Maybe you can't find a job or wish to quit your present job because of stress or you just want another stream of income, remote or online jobs are something I think every warrior should explore.

For over three years, I have been working online. I set my own work hours and gradually gear towards financial freedom.

Warriors need to leverage the opportunities online because it gives us the chance to work from anywhere and set our own work time.

Some online jobs that you can try include:

• Digital marketing
• Blogging
• Writing
• Social media management
• YouTube
• Social media influencing
• Graphics design

Another important advantage of having an online job that I would love to highlight is the fact that you can automate. Automation helps you keep your work going even when you're not there. Nice, right?

4. Always put your health first

Never compromise your health for work. Your health is your most important asset, protect it.

The truth is that you will be replaced at work if anything bad happens so put your health first always. Rest when you need to, drink plenty of water, avoid sitting for long hours, eat tasty nutritious meals.

5. Do your best when you're strong enough

Although there is pain most of the time, there are days when you might feel strong. Days where you feel on top of the world and there's strength to work. Always utilize days like that.

Don't joke with those days, work on as many tasks as possible, but still keep in mind that you don't have to exhaust yourself. So, keep it small but productive.

You can do it

Finding a balance between work and sickle cell is very possible. You just need to place priorities and keep in mind all of the tips above.

I believe so much in the online space so I think, as a warrior, you need to start leveraging on it. There are a lot of free courses online that would help you understand how you can work and earn from home. I share my knowledge of blogging, social media, and writing on my blog.