Three ways to find meaningful work after a devastating failure

As a legally blind CEO, I often sit in meetings with a guide dog at my side and wonder if the other people in the room are dealing with limitations we won’t see. We never know the struggles of those going through the silent, debilitating aftermath of tragic events that bring with them physical, mental and emotional challenges.

Even though it could seem not possible, you’ll be able to rise above major failure. Here are three ways to regain your self-confidence and find a recent purpose in your skilled life.

Be an ambassador

Whether you are struggling with health issues, dealing with depression, or experiencing a personal loss, your journey can change into a compelling story that may encourage others. When the time is right, you’ll be able to take on the role of advocate.

You can use your experiences with adversity to change into a voice for the company that gives the products or services you utilize. From this approach got here my very own experiences leading workshops for the Braille Institute, giving speeches, and appearing on panels. Being seen and heard as a winner will allow you to use your talents in a meaningful way.

Another way to get back into the corporate view is to write about your struggles. A PR specialist can show you the way to change into a part of a campaign; often all it takes is just to reach out. They might want to showcase your story so you’ll be able to pass on all the pieces you have learned. I once took part in a publishing project that included 12 inspiring stories of girls; this chance got here through networking where I met business leaders developing this idea. Your own experiences may lead you to essential people looking to fill key roles in their corporations.

If you find writing difficult or traveling difficult, contact marketing departments that have a video or audio channel where you’ll be able to share your testimony. From this standpoint, you’ll be able to gain global visibility through podcasts, social media, and video platforms. For example, I began working on a radio show where I used to be hired as a life coach for callers. I didn’t need eyes to play on the radio; Ironically, my keen hearing gave me an advantage. Instead of relying solely on biography or reading scripted questions, interviews became a casual, intimate conversation. Another strategy is to contact corporations in your industry and offer services that they do not offer. In the past, I provided life and business coaching services to corporations looking to expand their offerings.

Be a volunteer

The best way to make a lasting impression is to give something back. If you choose to volunteer your time, promote your skills. Your talents and abilities can create a long-term bond that may profit each parties – but you’ll have to speak up. Organizers need to know your comfort level.

For example, if you utilize technology to navigate life with a disability, you might help other people with limitations find technology that may change their lives. Being assertive will allow you to use your talents, creating opportunities to find meaningful work. Many people assume that because I can not see, there is little I can do to help with the real work. When I agree to participate in an event, the organizers quickly see how quickly I can act. With text-to-speech software and interactive apps, I can sustain with any sighted person and quickly organize information.

Be willing to take on multiple roles to not only give back, but also provide people with more opportunities to connect so they’ll see your story in motion. Showing support in a number of ways is extremely essential to show your versatility and level of commitment. The more leadership sees you, the more you’ll change into a go-to person. You’ll make essential connections and get much more platforms to get your voice heard.

You could also be facing a health problem that stops you from working on the front lines, or it’s possible you’ll not want to take on a leadership role. However, you’ll be able to still provide helpful support to a nonprofit or aid organization simply by using the resources you have. I have a close friend with a debilitating disease. Since he can now not volunteer in person, he uses online platforms and social media to work behind the scenes. You might help expand someone’s consumer base or potential donor list by working from your salon or favorite coffee shop. These skills are highly sought after in business today, and leveraging your experience can allow you to build or expand your CV.

Be an advocate

One of the most significant elements of overcoming adversity is educating leaders to enable change. Everything you have been through might help decision-makers understand the journey you have been on, and that may encourage meaningful motion.

Being a change agent is a rare but very needed role for those of us with challenges to embrace. Laws change when lawmakers face victims of unfair practices or negligent treatment of marginalized people. Whether it’s bullying, drunk driving victims, discrimination or needed research funds, one person’s willingness to stand before a body of legislators has often modified the lives of many.

Another way to advocate for change is to conduct in-person or online workshops or webinars to uplift others who lack the confidence and security to deal with challenges. Thanks to an organization that helped me cope with blindness, I learned recent iPhone features and apps, developed cooking skills, and took guitar lessons. “I received my best education from those who ‘cracked the code’ of living with blindness.” Nonprofits are all the time looking for people willing to step up and support those that need assistance coping with a devastating situation or restriction.

Finally, the patient can and often does change into a teacher. You can find helpful work guiding healthcare providers, carers or the community on how to higher support people with disabilities or life-changing circumstances. I interviewed a young woman who had suffered a debilitating illness; years later, she began sharing her story and conducting etiquette training for professionals caring for people with disabilities. Similarly, you’ll be able to support the reason for many individuals who feel unheard or misunderstood.

You can draw helpful insights from this adversity which will prove essential to those struggling with the aftermath of a difficult diagnosis, a life-changing event, or a mental or emotional crisis. Your willingness to tell your story could also be the most significant asset you’ll be able to leverage to increase your self-confidence and get back to a satisfying level of business success. By becoming an agent of change in your individual life, you’ll be able to create much-needed transformation in the lives of others while finding your individual path to meaning and purpose in the work you’re keen on.