The Top 5 Careers for Someone with Bipolar Disorder

There are so many careers to choose from in the world.

The most important aspect of picking a career is to find one you can handle. Personally, I have found the top way to have and handle a career is to find one where I am in control. 

I need to be in control of my environment and schedule. That is the only way I can make a career work. Due to the fluctuations in my mood, energy level, activity level, and motivation, I need to dictate when, where, and for how long I work.

I have put together a list of jobs for an individual living with bipolar disorder.

My recommendations are based mainly on lifestyle and the ability to follow through. Depending on your field of choice, you have the potential to make a comfortable living.

The Top 5 Careers for Someone with Bipolar Disorder

1) Blogging

I am kind of biased because I have my own blog. I love the fact that I am in complete control! I have no other person dictating anything unless I choose. I determine how many posts per week I publish. If one day I am not doing well, I just do not post or work on that particular day.

The only thing I had an issue with when launching my blog was the technical part. However, the issue was easily remedied, as I watched some YouTube clips and chatted with others who had the information I was seeking.

2) Freelancer

As a freelancer, you have similar conditions compared to a blog, but you get to decide who you work with or if you work for yourself. You decide the types and length of projects to take on or pursue. However, you do not always have a choice if you are trying to make money.

If you work for another agency geared toward freelancers, you rarely have as much flexibility with your clients. You may want to create your own website if that is something that bothers you.

3) Coach

As a coach, you are still just as much in control, if not more, than the other career suggestions mentioned. You decide who you want to work with. Generally, coaches have a questionnaire, and that is how they get to know you. If it is not a good fit, the coach can refer you to another professional.

4) Virtual Assistant

A virtual assistant is like a freelancer, but you can market multiple abilities. There are websites you can post your skills on. Plus, it is sa good idea to get your own website, which gives you a certain amount of control.

5) Entrepreneur

When I think of an entrepreneur, I think more of a brick-and-mortar company. You will have less control over this situation. You have specific hours when you must be there, and you may have to stay longer. This will give you the opportunity for more managerial duties if that is your fancy. If things get too overwhelming, you can bring in outside help and utilize those managerial duties I was talking about!

These examples have some degree of control that you will not find while working for someone else. If you have bipolar disorder and excel in a situation working for someone else, all the power to you. My ideas are based on my personal experience and a large population of individuals I have met over the years who live with bipolar disorder.

My Journey

I have pretty much had every job or career you can think of. From an engineering intern to retail to personal trainer to pizza delivery man.

My mind and body just don’t fit into the pigeonholed 8-5 workday, Monday through Friday. I had to break free from the expectations of society and find my own way.

Bipolar disorder is not just a disease about moods. It is so much more complicated than that.

Fluctuation in energy is a big issue for me. I take advantage of the time when my energy is higher or higher than normal to get anything done. That is why I compiled this list of top careers for someone with bipolar disorder. Most of these examples you can do from the comfort of your home. 

If you wake up and can’t get out of bed, wait until later to focus on your work. Once you have the energy, you can tackle it with all of your might.

However, if you are depressed and can’t get out of bed for a week, you just do it when you can. You don’t have someone huffing and puffing over your shoulder and watching your every move.

Bottom Line: You can plan your work around your illness and not your illness around your work.

A Contributing Member of Society

It is difficult when society imposes its expectations on you, and you just don’t fit the mold. At least, that is what I have found my entire life. Coming to terms with this sentiment is difficult for anybody.

Just remember – You don’t have to work to be a contributing member of society.

For example, you can volunteer, take care of your parents, or be a stay-at-home parent. The point is you do not have to work an 8-5 job to feel like you are contributing. This is extremely important to come to terms with if you have bipolar disorder.

If you do not fit into the expectations, roles, and norms of society, you are immediately considered an outcast.

Some individuals with bipolar disorder have found a way to fit into this corporate mold. If that is you, then I give you all the kudos in the world.

I just want everyone to feel like they are a part of life, that they are contributors, and feel loved.

Last Thoughts

I remember I used to speak to my dad about this very thing—you know, getting a job and making it into a career.

He would say, “John, focus on your health, and put it first. That is the most important.”

I love my dad for telling me that (and supporting me along my journey). After all, what good am I to my family if I’m not healthy? If you don’t have your health, you cannot do much.

Always take heed of the advice I learned from my father:

Focus on your health and put it first.