What to consider when you get sick as a Solopreneur

“The show must go on” is a phrase that conjures up images of being stoic, steadfast and robust when the poo hits the fan, but tasks continue despite challenges.

This is a phrase I normally say to myself until recently, when I was really really sick.

When I say sick, I’m talking about a 4 day stay in hospital, hooked up to IV drips, prescribed various concoctions of medications and feeling very unwell.

It was scary and distressing for many reasons.

I am mega thankful to the NHS team of lovely smiley nurses who helped me to feel well again so I could head home (a literal 5-minute walk from the ward to home funnily enough).

My focus and priority is to feel better - 100% BUT when you run your own business, there is a heavy amount of responsibility resting on your shoulders.

I felt vulnerable and had a ton of unfinished tasks whirling around in my head. While recuperating I realised as a one woman show aka solopreneur, my business relies solely on me and whilst sick, everything stops. Suddenly and abruptly.

Sickness never comes at a ‘good time’ when your diary is empty, and you can afford to take time off. Sickness lands when you have a full diary and lots to do ….

Liaising with clients, paying invoices, keeping an eye on cash flow, replying to messages, showing up at events and much more!

So, here's the 4 things I’ve been thinking about as lessons I’m learning and want to share with you about being a solopreneur and what to consider when you get sick (and also get your comments too)

Just Stop:

It is so important to recognize when you need to take a break. Your health is paramount, and sometimes the best thing you can do for your business is to take care of yourself first. It’s a tough lesson, but an essential one.

Be Honest:

Transparency with clients and stakeholders can build trust and understanding. People appreciate honesty and are often more supportive than we expect. It is a reminder that we are all human and sometimes need to step back.

Use the Out of Office Setting on your email account:

This is a great tool to manage expectations and reduce pressure. It allows you to communicate your unavailability clearly and professionally, giving you the space to recover without constant interruptions.

Have a Business Continuity Plan:

Planning for continuity is crucial. Considering options like a virtual assistant or other support systems can help ensure your business remains operational even when you’re not at full capacity. It’s about building resilience into your business model. I won’t lie. I haven’t got all the answers right now! But, I now understand the importance of business continuity such as financial stability, protecting reputation and maintaining operations.

...and if you're looking for resources to start your own plans.

If you’re thinking that business continuity planning is a necessary task on your to do list, here are two resources that I found and plan to use - I hope they’re useful.?

• Business Continuity Management Toolkit is a step-by-step guide taking you through the six elements to consider.
• Hubspot have created a Business Continuity Plan with templates and information?with examples of scenarios that would require a business continuity plan

Let's hear from you... what is your number one tip that you use to keep your business going when you feel unwell? Comment below...

Love this article? Great, check out other Self-employed Stories that I wrote:

Is it easy to transform your passion in to profit?

Networking - is it better in person or virtually?

What is the most effective way to communicate your skills and achievements?