[Editor’s note: Jillian Day created 508Assist.org to help people all across the web make their sites accessible to individuals with disabilities. She was inspired to start 508Assist.org when a close family member, who happens to have a visual impairment, had trouble finding a dinner recipe online that he could read easily. When she’s not chasing after her little ones, Jillian enjoys being outside, whether she’s fishing, hiking, or geocaching with her family.]

Tips on How to Run a Successful Business, Even if You’re Disabled, by Jillian Day

Starting a business can be one of the most challenging things you can take on in life. After all, you’re never guaranteed success, no matter how much effort you put into it. And if you’re disabled, you may face challenges that make getting your new business off the ground seem unlikely. However, that’s not to say it’s impossible. So here are some helpful tips to help you move forward on your entrepreneurial journey.

Get the right funding.

This is, perhaps, the most challenging step for business owners with limited capital. However, concerning as it may be, there are many avenues that you can explore to get the funding you need. You may even be eligible for business grants specifically for people with disabilities.

Find business opportunities that suit your needs.

If you are undecided about which industry you should go into, it’s better to start with the most straightforward ideas first. There are many businesses you can operate from the comfort of your home, instead of finding work where the environment may not suit your needs. For example, pet sitting, tutoring, freelancing, and virtual assistant work are just a few of the businesses you can do from home.

Create a business plan

Once you’ve decided on what you want to do, it’s always a good idea to start with a business plan, so you know where you’re headed. Of course, you’ll need to create a solid marketing plan to ensure your business gets the visibility it deserves. As part of your marketing strategy, your business needs a stellar-looking website. This job is best left to the professionals, such as the experienced web designers at Electric Silk. If you would like to try your hand at creating interesting infographics for your website, then by using free infographic templates you can choose from a range of templates and then add the colors, text, and background elements of your choice.

Take care of your own needs in the process.

If you’re living with a disability that requires you to get sufficient rest every day, you’ll also need to consider your personal needs. Again, it’s more about paying attention to what you need to function at your best, regardless of your situation in life. Then, when you’ve done what is necessary to feel better within yourself, you’re sure to become an even better business owner because you’ve taken the rest and space your body and mind require.

Lean on the advice and support of others

Many new owners rely on the advice and support of a trusted mentor to help guide them forward. Besides this, it’s a good idea to have someone you can confide in during times of discouragement, so you don’t end up quitting before you’ve even begun!

You may put off starting a business if you feel that you’re already at a disadvantage. However, it’s important to remember that the world needs your unique talents and ideas just as much as the next person’s. So, while your journey might look a bit different from the average Joe’s, you can still achieve your business dreams with the right resources and assistance to help you along in the difficult times.

Visit the Whispers of Hope website to get all the support, encouragement, and guidance to push on despite the obstacles you may be facing.

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