Have I mentioned that I am looking for work? It used to be so easy! I was the person that walked into a place and said, “Oh, I see you are looking for some help!” And before I left, I had the job! Well, actually that only happened once. Still, it was much easier before my Multiple Sclerosis symptoms became noticeable. Now, I may get an interview relatively quickly, but the moment I walk in with a cane, you can feel the mood change. Not sure it is my mood or theirs.
I had an interview recently. I could tell it went well! I was open about my walking issues. I certainly couldn’t hide them. The school was in a very rugged area. It was in an older building, overgrown, hilly, broken cement stairs. I still felt I could handle it as long as I was careful. Once you were in the building it was fine. It was obvious that the interviewer would have liked to hire me. Sadly, that doesn’t make up for the fear of possible legal issues if I was to fall.
It became evident that if I wanted to work, it was necessary to re-evaluate my process.
Here are some ways that I discovered to improve employment chances for any one with mobility issues.
1. If your mobility is interfering with your job hunt. Take a look at your experience. It is easy to look at most recent history, but don’t forget your your past history as well. Have you worked with the public? Have you had retail experience? Are you familiar with computers?List everything you can think of. It will open your eyes to al of your skills.
2. Ask yourself, “what could I do with my skills? Is there a possibility of doing office work, receptionist, even part time retail? Try not to limit yourself. Think outside the box!
3. Is there a way to improve your skills? Possibly you could take a computer class, or a basic business course?
4. Do not forget about talking to friends and former associates. They know you, your skills, and most importantly, they have seen your ethics, your diligence and are very likely aware of skills you haven’t taken into consideration!
5. Think about going part time. It has become apparent that employers want to avoid paying benefits. Therefore part time employees are more appealing. Even being hired for a few hours can get your foot in the door. Before you know it, someone will call in sick and you will become your employers new favorite employee when you save the day!
6. Have you considered your own business? There are many possibilities! Are you creative? Think about eBay or Etsy. What about cooking? Have you got a killer salsa recipe or cookie recipe that you could market to friends. Do you have academic skills or music skills. How about tutoring? This route will possibly be more work, but could also be more rewarding and a path to new possibilities!
7. Most importantly, remember that work should not define you! Do not forget the wonderful things that make you who you are!
What’s next?
It is my thought that for myself, it is necessary to be productive in order to feel complete! So yes, I am taking my own advice! I will keep looking for work while investigating new directions. I am intrigued by the possibilities!!! I hope I have provided some motivational ideas and some support for people going through similar hurdles! 
FunshineSunshine 