easymedia

Working on Fiverr with Chronic Illness

I have PMDD and now I've just been hit with Hyperthyroidism. Even though I feel like I have the easiest job in the world - all I do is read scripts - and yet, two weeks out of the month, my job can seem like it's impossible to accomplish. I'm a voice actor. Should be fun and easy to do right? But, of course all the other little things that you have to do as a freelancer here on Fiverr pile up. Like answering messages, sending customer offers, repeating yourself over and over again even though you have an FAQ section and your gig description is as close to perfect as can be, etc...

Dealing with chronic illness can be challenging, especially when it comes to managing workloads and commitments, no matter how easy you or others seem to think it should be. You have to take care of yourself along with your business, and maybe take care of others if your a parent–like myself.

Here are some tips for handling your Fiverr queue while dealing with chronic illness:

• Set realistic expectations: Be honest with yourself and your clients about your availability and limitations. Communicate clearly about your estimated turnaround times and let clients know if you need extra time or accommodations due to your illness. Don't be afraid to lose buyers by requesting extensions through the Resolutions.
• Prioritize your workload: When dealing with chronic illness, it's important to prioritize tasks based on their urgency and importance. Focus on completing high-priority orders first and communicate any delays with your clients. Communication is key! Your buyers will appreciate the honesty, trust me.
• Take breaks when needed: It's important to take breaks when you're feeling overwhelmed or fatigued. Schedule time for rest and self-care activities to help manage your symptoms and maintain your energy levels. Set alarms if you must!
• Consider hiring an assistant: If you're struggling to keep up with your workload, consider hiring a virtual assistant to help manage your Fiverr queue. This can help ease your workload and give you more time to focus on your health and wellbeing.
  • I actually chose to bring on a business partner to help me with editing all my voice overs, and answering messages.
  • Since he does half the work, he gets half my income.
  • Some money is better than none!
• Use automation tools: Fiverr has automation tools such as auto-responses and order reminders that can help you manage your queue more efficiently. These tools can help you stay organized and communicate with clients even when you're not feeling well.
  • These will help any assistants you bring on as well!
• Be open with your clients: It can be helpful to be open and honest with your clients about your illness. This can help build trust and understanding, and may even lead to more compassionate and flexible working relationships.
  • Just try not to overshare because then it might seem like your making up excuses.
  • You don't have to share anything! But, I have found that sending them a simple message saying that my symptoms are keeping me from delivering an exceptional product does wonders.
  • Ask them if their deadlines are flexible and go from there.

Remember that your health and wellbeing should always come first. Don't hesitate to take a break or ask for help when you need it. By managing your workload and communicating effectively with your buyers, you can continue to provide quality work on Fiverr while also prioritizing your health.