Dealing with both? How do you make it work?
My advise – you keep your personal problems (including your health problems) to yourself. You can’t ask for sympathy from your business relations – you can expect that from a friend (although not all – as it turns out) or family (also not all of them will ‘get you’) but at least it’s out in a comfortable space. Clients, business associates, co-workers or anyone that could be or turn to a business interaction CANNOT BE TRUSTED!Sure they may be nice people and they may ask ‘How are you doing?’ They may seem sincere and kind and have good intentions and they may mean well and you may feel like you can trust them. DON’T. It’s a trap. Sooner or later this may come back against you. You business relationship may change. For example, they may keep your situation/ health in mind and may feel you’re not capable to deal with the extra workload or that you can’t handle the pressure of the next assignment.
Sadly, from my personal experience, I have noticed that I need to PRETEND and often say ‘Oh I’m Great!’. Even though I was falling apart inside. Pretending that you’re fine isn’t all that bad. It forces a smile and helps you to act a certain – more confident way. A fake smile isn’t all that bad. Some of that smile really reaches your brain and you may find you actually do feel FINE. So if you’re fighting your own battle that sees no end but you want your business to survive another year – make the fight a silent one and save the tears.
This is a little rough – isn’t it? I need to toughen you up so that you can stand up stronger in this world. You are an emotional wreck but also still a business woman or man – learn to separate the two. Find comfort amongst family, friends, a therapist but not professionals.
With all this rough talk – please know that I can also be a shoulder to cry. I am going through my own ups and downs. Each day has a brand new challenge and struggle with MG (Myasthenia Gravis). Each chronic illness is unique and we cope differently emotionally and physically. Be strong and positive and you will be more calm and productive throughout the day. Take one step at a time in your health, personal life and business life and GOOD LUCK!
