A question that inevitably comes up when I’m working with a client who is in a career shift (and needless to say, lives with chronic illness) : “Should I/ could I/ would I start my own business?”

Who hasn’t thought/dreamed about this? Especially us - the working and chronically ill (otherwise known as the not often healthy).

In case you’re thinking about this, here are 5 very cool ideas for out of the box businesses - from one of my favorite blogger, Pam Slim at Escape from Cubicle Nation. What I like about this is that she’s taken a look at what she sees as needs in the marketplace and translated it into solid solo entrepreneurial idea. Very creative and solid approach.

But here’s the thing: The world of solo entrepreneur/business builder - it isn’t for everybody! Just the other day, a member of my Mastermind Team (don’t know what that is? click on the link) was expressing intense frustration that it’s taken her a year to develop a new business idea. She’s got connections, a great resume and skills — but it’s not clear to me she’s got the single most important factor: motivation.

It’s a funny thing, motivation. Need can clearly make it grow. And when you have chronic illness, working for others can be difficult.   So the logical response is - I’ll go out on my own.   Not easy though, is it?

Would love to hear from others who have done it - with success (or not!)  Let’s hear those stories …