Re-adjusting to the workplace with a disability:
Monster Career Advice has an interesting article by Matt Krumrie on re-entering the workforce after sustaining a disability. Typically we don’t consider what would happen if we lost or ability to walk or to read or even to maintain an even mood. We continue through life focusing on our family, our friends, the boat we want or the life we will live once we retire. But when you sustained a life-altering injury that leaves you disabled, all of these priorities are, at least temporarily, put to the bottom of the list.
Now you have to focus on whether or not you can stay in your current job or on your chosen career path. Things like how to navigate down narrow isles between cubicles or how to concentrate on spreadsheets when your back is radiating pain become real considerations – ones that more likely than not you are unprepared for.
Krumrie’s article discusses how to look for other skills that you can apply if your disability hinders the ones you have been using so far. If you lose the use of your fingers, then perhaps voice dictation or customer support will be an option. It’s about looking at life with new eyes and realizing that your disability doesn’t mean the end of work or living the life you care about. In some cases, the addition of workplace accommodations will take care of any access issues you may have. Don’t be afraid to speak with your employer about your needs and how he or she can best help you to get the job done.
Adjusting to new situations can be difficult, especially with a disability, but have hope and realize that there are a lot of great resources available to help you make that transition. Others have overcome incredible obstacles – you can too!