Hi I’m Clare, I’m a mum to Maddy (19) and wife of 13 years to my bestie Mark. Fibro warrior for 7 years

For those of you who don't know, fibromyalgia is a chronic pain condition that affects the muscles, tendons, and ligaments. It can cause a wide range of symptoms, including extreme fatigue, pain, and stiffness. As someone who suffers from fibromyalgia myself, I know firsthand how difficult it can be to manage this condition while also trying to work a traditional job.

That's why working for myself has been a game-changer for me. Here are just a few of the benefits I've experienced:

1. I can set my own schedule.

One of the biggest challenges of dealing with fibromyalgia is the unpredictability of the symptoms. Some days, I wake up feeling relatively okay, while other days, I can barely get out of bed. When you work for someone else, you're often at the mercy of their schedule. But when you work for yourself, you can set your own hours an d take breaks when you need to. This has been a lifesaver for me, as I can work when I'm feeling up to it and rest when I need to.

2. I can work from home.

For those of you who don't know, fibromyalgia is a chronic pain condition that affects the muscles, tendons, and ligaments. It can cause a wide range of symptoms, including extreme fatigue, pain, and stiffness. As someone who suffers from fibromyalgia myself, I know firsthand how difficult it can be to manage this condition while also trying to work a traditional job.

3. I can prioritize my health.

When you work a traditional job, it can be difficult to prioritize your health. You might feel pressured to work through your symptoms or push yourself too hard. But when you work for yourself, you can make your health a top priority. If I'm having a particularly bad day, I can take the day off without worrying about getting in trouble or falling behind.

Of course, there are also some downsides to working for yourself. It can be isolating, and you might miss the social interaction of a traditional office. But for me, the benefits far outweigh the negatives.

So if you're dealing with fibromyalgia and struggling to find a job that works for you, consider starting your own business or working as a freelancer. It's not always easy, but it can be incredibly rewarding. And hey, at least you don't have to deal with a boss who doesn't believe in fibromyalgia!