Ep 299: 3 Coping Skills Needed When Running a Business with a Chronic Illness

Let’s be honest—starting and growing a business is tough on a good day. Add in a chronic illness, and it can feel like the odds are stacked against you. If you’re trying to build something meaningful while dealing with health challenges, I want you to hear this loud and clear: you’re not alone—and your business dreams are still absolutely valid.

After getting COVID back in 2022, my body went haywire. I started dealing with weird symptoms that led to more doctors than I can count—neurologists, rheumatologists, even Mayo Clinic. Eventually, I was diagnosed with adrenal insufficiency and now possibly axial spondyloarthritis (a form of inflammatory arthritis that affects the spine). Most days, that means back pain, nerve issues, and more headaches than I care to admit. Some days are just plain hard.

And yet—I’m still running my business. And I want to share three things that have made it possible (not perfect, not easy—but possible).

First, give yourself grace.
I know that might sound cliché, but for us driven, Type-A folks, it’s one of the hardest things to do. You’re used to pushing through and showing up. But chronic illness forces a new kind of wisdom: the kind that says, “Today, this is enough.” Most of the deadlines we create? We can move them. The podcast can be a day late. The email can wait. The world won’t end, and your people will still be there. Being kind to yourself isn’t weakness—it’s wisdom.

Second, delegate what you can.
This is the time to let go of the “I’ll just do it myself” mindset. Start with personal stuff—grocery delivery, cleaning help, someone to mow the yard. Then look at your business: what tasks can someone else take off your plate, even temporarily? Whether it’s shipping, emails, editing, or scheduling—letting go is a strength. It keeps things moving when your energy isn’t.

Third, when you do feel good—show up fully.
Even if it’s just for a short while. Your clients, customers, and community don’t need perfection—they need presence. When you have a pocket of energy, use it intentionally. Show up, connect, serve, and know that those moments matter. In fact, those little bursts of connection often become fuel. They remind you why you’re doing this in the first place.

Listen, running a business with chronic illness isn’t something you choose—but it is something you can do. With grace, support, and intentional focus, you can absolutely keep moving forward—even if it looks a little different than you imagined. Your pace might change, but your purpose doesn’t.

****BOOK I RECOMMENDED IN THIS EPISODE: Don't Believe Everything You Think