Should You Keep Running Your Business While Recovering from an Illness?

Most entrepreneurs are so busy—and so focused on getting things done—that even the thought of a minor cold can send them into panic. Contracting a more serious illness is all but unthinkable—yet it does happen. And should it happen to you, you may need to make some tough decisions about the future of your business.

Of course, pulling out of the business altogether is a choice no entrepreneur would make unless absolutely necessary. Shifting responsibilities to a capable partner or colleague may be an option, though this just depends on who you’ve got on your bench.

Most small business owners will need to stay involved in the day-to-day operation of their company, even during an extended recovery from sickness or surgery. This can be taxing, physically as well as emotionally, but it is far from impossible.

How to Run Your Business During Your Recovery

As you try to keep up with business ownership during a recovery period, keep the following tips in mind:

Communication is paramount, and candor is usually the best policy. This is true with your employees but also with long-time, established clients. Being upfront with them about your illness is almost always preferable to hiding it from them; be proactive and reassuring as you explain what’s going on, and any changes in their service as you recover from illness.

You may have to lean on technology. More than ever before, it’s possible to conduct meetings and speak with clients even from a hospital bed or from your bedroom at home. Make sure you have a smartphone with meeting, collaboration, and communication software—Skype, etc.

Delegation is essential. By trying to do everything yourself, you’re going to burn out or set back your recovery. You need to get to a place where you feel comfortable asking your team members to step up and shoulder some of the burden.

A disaster preparedness plan helps. In fact, it’s smart for business owners to develop contingency plans before illness ever strikes, charting who will be tasked with what during your time of recovery.

More than anything: Take care of yourself. When you’re sick, it becomes more critical than ever to get plenty of rest and take some mental health breaks—ensuring that when you do return to work, you have as much vigor and creativity as possible.