Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own.
As a legally blind CEO, I often sit in meetings with my guide dog by my side and wonder if other people in the room are struggling with limitations we can’t see. We never know the struggles of those who live through the silent, debilitating aftermath of tragic events that bring physical, mental and emotional challenges.
Even if it seems impossible, you can overcome a major setback. Here are three ways to regain your confidence and find new meaning in your work life.
Be an ambassador
Whether you’re experiencing health issues, struggling with depression, or suffering a personal loss, your journey can become a compelling story that inspires others. When the time is right, you can take on the role of speaker.
You can use your experience with adversity to become a voice for a company that offers products or services that you use. My own experiences leading workshops for the Braille Institute, delivering the keynote, and appearing on a panel have arisen from this approach. When you are seen and heard as an overcomer, you can put your talents to good use.
Another way to get back on the company’s radar is to write about your problems. A PR person can show you how to become part of a campaign. Often it is enough for you to contact us. They may want to showcase your story so you can share everything you’ve learned. I was once part of a book project with 12 inspiring women’s stories; This opportunity arose from a networking event where I met the business leaders who developed the concept. Your own experiences can lead you to important people who want to fill key positions in their company.
If writing is a challenge for you or traveling is difficult, reach out to marketing departments that have a video or audio channel through which you can share your message. This vantage point could give you global exposure via podcasts, social media or video platforms. For example, I started on a radio show where I was hired as a life coach for people who called me. I didn’t need my eyes to do radio; Ironically, my keen sense of hearing gave me the edge. Instead of relying solely on a bio or reading pre-written questions, the interviews became a casual, intimate conversation. Another strategy is to reach out to companies in your field and offer services that they don’t offer. In the past, I have provided life and business coaching services to companies looking to expand their offerings.
Related: 10 Ways to Move Forward After a Major Setback
Be a volunteer
The best way to make a memorable impression is to give back. When you choose to offer your time, you promote your skills. Your talents and skills can create a long-term, mutually beneficial bond—but you need to speak up. Organizers need to know your comfort level.
For example, if you use technology to cope with life with a disability, you can help other people with disabilities find technology that changes their lives. If you are assertive, you can use your talents to create opportunities to find meaningful work. Many people assume that since I can’t see, there’s little I can do to help with the actual work. If I agree to take part in an event, the organizers quickly see how quickly I can work. With the text-to-speech software I use and interactive apps, I can keep up with any sighted person and quickly organize information.
Be prepared to take on multiple roles to not only give back, but also give people more networking opportunities to see your story in action. It’s important to show your support in a variety of ways to demonstrate your versatility and commitment. The more leaders you see, the more you become a go-to person. You make important contacts and get even more platforms to make your voice heard.
You may be facing a health challenge that prevents you from working on the front lines, or you may not want to take on a leadership role. However, you can still provide valuable support to a nonprofit or relief organization simply by using the resources at your disposal. I have a close friend with a debilitating illness. Since she can no longer volunteer in person, she uses online platforms and social media to work behind the scenes. You can help expand a person’s customer base or list of potential donors by working from your living room or your favorite coffee shop. These skills are in high demand in the business world today and leveraging your experience can help you build or enhance your resume.
Related: 12 Ways to Get Moving Quickly After a Serious Setback
Be an advocate
One of the most important aspects of overcoming adversity is developing leaders so that change can take place. Everything you’ve been through can help decision-makers understand the path you’ve taken – and that can inspire meaningful action.
Becoming a change agent is a rare but much-needed role that those of us with challenges should embrace. Laws change when the human toll of unfair practices or negligent treatment of marginalized people is imposed on lawmakers. Whether it’s bullying, the number of drunk driving victims, discrimination, or needed funding for research, a person’s willingness to stand before a panel of lawmakers often has a place in many people’s lives Made a difference.
Another way to advocate for change is to host an in-person or online workshop or webinar to encourage others who don’t feel confident or confident in overcoming challenges. Through an organization that helped me deal with my blindness, I learned new iPhone features and apps, developed cooking skills, and took guitar lessons. I received the best education from those who “cracked the code to living with blindness.” Nonprofit organizations are always looking for people who are willing to advocate for those who need help coping with a stressful situation or limitation.
Ultimately, the patient can and often does become the teacher. You may find meaningful work that helps healthcare providers, caregivers, or the public better support people with disabilities or life-changing circumstances. I interviewed a young woman who had been through a devastating illness; Years later, she began sharing her story and offering etiquette training for professionals who care for people with disabilities. Likewise, you can advance the cause of many people who feel unheard or misunderstood.
You can gain valuable insight from this adversity that can be crucial for those struggling with the consequences of a difficult diagnosis, a life-changing event, or a mental or emotional crisis. Your willingness to tell your story may be the most important asset you can use to boost your confidence and get back to a rewarding level of success in business. By becoming a change agent in your own life, you can create much-needed change in the lives of others while finding your own path to meaning and purpose in the work you love.