Being a Disabled Boss: My $1k/Month Goal & Finding Freedom
Hiiii friends! (✿◠‿◠)
I’ve been thinking a lot about my business goals lately. As a disabled girlie, the "hustle culture" you see on TikTok, where people are waking up at 5 AM to go to the gym and then working 12 hours straight…literally makes my joints ache just watching it. lol. I am not able to do that and not be in pain. My definition is vastly different than others definition.
I’ve realized that my version of success looks like failure to most people. If we are only thinking about the financial, since my financial goal is low (enough to survive and maybe some treats here and there). I don’t want to be a millionaire or have a massive office. I just want a life that’s quiet, sustainable, and sweet.
The $1k Dream
I mentioned in my goals post that I’m aiming for about $800 to $1,400 a month. To some people, that might seem like "poverty level," and yeah, the US economy is... a lot right now. (Ugh, don't even get me started on the price of groceries. Why is it so much?! I can rant on and on about it but I will be hush!).
But for me? That amount is freedom. It means:
1. Being able to work from my bed on high-pain days.
2. Buying my cute stationery and art supplies without guilt.
3. Having the time to actually cook for myself and take care of my body.
4. Living a "slow" life where I’m not constantly stressed out. And also taking good care of my cats and always being able to afford their food.
Why Small is Beautiful (for me at least)
Running a business while being disabled means I have to be really protective of my energy. Some days I’m a total boss and get everything done, and other days I’m just... a potato. And that’s okay!
I’m learning to build a business that loves me back. One that doesn’t demand I sacrifice my health just to make a profit. I’d rather have a "tiny" business that brings me peace than a "big" one that brings me a hospital bill from stress.
I recognize that my definition of success is viewed as failure to most. Most people don’t what to start a business and only want minimum wage as their pay, but I personally don’t mind it. I am barely surviving now and rely on others to help me. Ssdi and ssi is hard to get. I am happy with my basic needs covered and some money to afford treats sometimes. I don’t drive so I don’t need a car. I don’t need much to survive. It’s just me and two cats. My sister does a lot for me (she takes care of me) so I will be so happy being able to make my own money and contribute to our bills.
What’s Next?
I’m working on some new things for the shop (I’m so excited to show you guys!!), and I’m focusing on things that make me happy to create. Because if I’m not enjoying it, what’s the point? I’m trying to take it easy and not spread myself too thin. I have so many likes and passions. So I want to really lock in on one or two for now.
If you’d like to support my work, you’re welcome to visit my shop or leave a small tip. Absolutely no pressure at all!
I’m curious! if you could have any "dream life," would it be a fast-paced one or a slow, soft one like mine? Let’s chat in the comments!
₍^ >ヮ<^₎
