Remote Work for Spoonies: How to Find a Job That Works for You
Living with a chronic illness, disability, or neurodivergence can make traditional work environments challenging.
Long commutes, rigid schedules, and physically demanding tasks can quickly drain your energy, leaving little room for personal care and recovery.
Remote work offers a flexible alternative, allowing Spoonies to tailor their work life around their health needs.
But how do you find a remote job that truly works for you?
Let’s dive into strategies for identifying, securing, and thriving in remote work as a Spoonie.
Why Remote Work is Ideal for Spoonies
Remote work provides several benefits that make it a perfect fit for individuals managing chronic illnesses, disabilities, or neurodivergence:
Flexibility: Work when you feel your best and take breaks when needed.
Reduced Energy Expenditure: No commuting means saving precious spoons for actual work and self-care.
Customizable Work Environment: Adjust lighting, seating, and background noise to suit your comfort level.
Less Exposure to Illness: Working from home minimizes exposure to germs, which is crucial for those with compromised immune systems.
More Control Over Your Day: Structure your work around doctor’s appointments, therapy sessions, and flare-ups.
Identifying the Right Remote Job
Not all remote jobs are created equal. Some may still require rigid schedules or high-pressure environments. When searching for a job, consider the following factors:
1. Flexibility in Scheduling
Look for jobs that allow you to set your own hours or offer asynchronous work, meaning you complete tasks on your own time instead of being locked into a strict schedule.
Best job types for flexible scheduling:
Freelance writing, editing, or graphic design
Virtual bookkeeping
Social media management
Online customer support (with flexible shifts)
Remote data entry or transcription
2. Physical and Cognitive Demand
Some remote jobs still require extended screen time, fast typing, or constant Zoom meetings. Assess whether the job is compatible with your energy levels and physical capabilities.
Low-energy job options:
Virtual assistant (with task-based work rather than live calls)
Email or chat-based customer support
Online research jobs
Proofreading and editing
3. Company Culture and Support
Look for companies that embrace disability inclusion, provide accommodations, and promote a healthy work-life balance. Many organizations have Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives that include accessibility considerations.
How to research company culture:
Look at the company’s website for accessibility statements.
Search for employee testimonials about work-life balance.
Reach out to current employees on LinkedIn for insights.
4. Job Security and Income Stability
Freelance and gig work offer flexibility but may not provide steady income. If financial stability is a priority, consider part-time or full-time remote positions with benefits.
Stable remote job options:
Remote administrative assistant
Content marketing or copywriting
Remote customer service
Technical support
Online tutoring or teaching
Where to Find Remote Jobs for Spoonies
Many job boards cater specifically to remote or disability-friendly work environments. Here are some top resources:
General Remote Job Boards:
Disability-Friendly and Spoonie-Friendly Job Boards:
Freelance & Gig Work Platforms:
Tips for Landing a Remote Job as a Spoonie
Once you’ve identified a job that fits your needs, the next step is applying and standing out in the hiring process. Here are some strategies:
1. Optimize Your Resume for Remote Work
Highlight any experience with independent work, self-motivation, time management, and digital tools like Zoom, Slack, or Trello.
2. Be Strategic About Disclosing Your Condition
Disclosing a disability or chronic illness is a personal choice. If accommodations are necessary, you can bring this up after receiving a job offer or during onboarding.
3. Prepare for Remote Interviews
Many remote job interviews are conducted via video calls. Ensure you have a quiet, well-lit space, and practice answering common interview questions about remote work.
4. Start Small if Needed
If a full-time remote job feels overwhelming, consider starting with part-time work, contract roles, or freelancing to test your capacity.
Thriving in Remote Work as a Spoonie
Once you land the job, making it sustainable is key. Here are some strategies to keep your work-life balance in check:
1. Set Boundaries
Define work hours that align with your energy levels.
Use tools like Google Calendar or Notion to plan tasks efficiently.
Communicate your availability with your employer or clients.
2. Design a Spoonie-Friendly Workspace
Use ergonomic chairs and desk setups to reduce pain and fatigue.
Take regular breaks and stretch to prevent stiffness.
Adjust screen brightness and use blue light filters to reduce eye strain.
3. Prioritize Self-Care
Schedule breaks for rest, hydration, and meals.
Don’t feel guilty about taking sick days or slow days.
Utilize assistive technology, such as speech-to-text software, if typing is difficult.
4. Have a Flare Plan
Set up an auto-responder or message templates for flare days.
Prioritize deadlines and batch work on good energy days.
Have a backup plan in place if you need extra time for projects.
Final Thoughts
Remote work can be a game-changer for Spoonies, offering the flexibility and accessibility needed to balance health and career. By choosing the right job, advocating for accommodations, and setting up a sustainable work routine, you can build a fulfilling professional life without sacrificing your well-being.
Your journey as a resilient professional starts here. Keep exploring, applying, and creating a work environment that truly supports your needs. You deserve it!
💻✨ Spoonie-Approved Work From Home Must-Haves
Need a little help making your work-from-home life more comfortable and manageable? I've put together an Amazon list filled with cozy, accessible, and energy-saving essentials that I personally recommend as a fellow Spoonie.
👉 Check out the full list here: Work From Home Essentials For Chronic Illness Warriors!
Because you deserve to work in comfort, on your terms. 💜
Are you a Spoonie working remotely? Share your experience and tips in the comments below!
This post may contain affiliate links, and we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Comments
Post a Comment