In this post, we’ll provide ideas on the type of businesses that you could benefit from pursuing, in addition to tips on how start a business without taking attention away from your personal needs.
3 Tips for Disabled Business Owners:
1. Don’t Start from Scratch
If you want to start a business, but don’t want to start from square one,
consider opening a franchise. This will lessen the risk, and allow you to have access to
existing branding and other assets.
Nobody said that you have to start an entirely new business from the ground up, especially if you’re already working with the challenges that come with a particular disability. Owning a franchise has a numerous benefits for an entrepreneur with a disability, including already-established branding, marketing efforts, and guaranteed assistance when it comes to construction, repairs, and staffing.
This can be an especially smart path for veterans with disabilities who want to run their own business but don’t want to burden themselves with too much stress soon after returning to civilian life. Mental health concerns like depression, anxiety, PTSD, and addiction (which can also be
linked to discrimination) can all be exacerbated if a veteran takes on too much stress.
2. Start a Home-Based Business
Entrepreneurs who want to run
home-based businesses can pursue a myriad of opportunities. Many are online-related, including graphic design services, website building, IT consulting, and social media consulting. In addition, you can use other skills to start a home-based business, such as services related to marketing, accounting, writing, retail, among others.
If you are dealing with mobility issues, a home-based online business could be better suited for your needs than running a traditional
brick-and-mortar office or storefront. The
overhead costs are lower as well.
3. Don’t Sacrifice Your Health
Many small business owners think that you must make extreme sacrifices to succeed. While you do have to work hard and be persistent if you want to achieve your goals, people with disabilities must be careful not to overlook their personal well-being in the pursuit of success.
You should devote considerable time to exercising, eating healthy food, and getting enough sleep. In addition, you might benefit from meditation or another relaxing activity. Without devoting time to your mental and physical health, it will be more difficult to start and grow your small business, so ensure that you can balance your personal needs with running a business.
Conclusion
While small business ownership can be a wonderful opportunity for individuals with disabilities, it can also present challenges. Before you start a business, ensure that you have a solid plan that will help you prepare for the responsibilities that come with being a business owner. It’s a fun dive into the unknown, but do remember that it is a dive!