Around 2.3 million people worldwide have a work-related accident or injury annually, some of which can become fatal. When an accident at work or in your personal life changes your ability to do your regular job, it can be devastating. Providing safety training and personal protective equipment is essential for all businesses to avoid accident and injury. But when an accident occurs, and you are changed for life, how can you move on?

Get Ready

Your life is not over, and neither is your working life. Loss of eyesight or use of a limb are not easy things to come to terms with, for example. However, there will come a time when you realize that you have to return to work. Research shows that one day of working per week is all that is needed to boost mental health and self-esteem. You may be able to stay in your industry, and your knowledge and experience could be valuable in a different area of the sector. For example, you could meet with a similar company to discuss the possibility of moving from being a forklift truck driver to working in the office instead. Research different roles in your sector as a starting point.

Retrain And Relearn

Once researched, you may find that there are no suitable roles in your previous sector. It is estimated that people change jobs 11.7 times in a lifetime; therefore, you will not be alone in pursuing a different line of work. Many people train again and try out new careers, so have a think about what you may want to do instead of your old job. Look at social media and local authority websites to find financial help to retrain. You may also be able to gain financial help in the short-term by claiming compensation for your accident. Some accidents involve serious criminal conduct, according to an experienced Austin law firm; therefore, you can hold the person responsible to account and claim compensation to help fund your need to retrain.

Consider Self-Employment

Do you have another skill or hobby that you could make into a career? Many people sell crafts and art online, or write from home part-time. Perhaps this is something you could try turning into a full-time business. Perhaps you were an accountant but can no longer get out of the house, or maybe you are particularly good with social media. These can be turned into careers without much overhead and by using a computer alone. Fear of failure is a top reason for people to avoid starting their own business, but you can use your change in circumstances to help motivate you. Seek help from local business owners, search online, or use family to get you started.

When your injury costs you a job, you can use it to gain something else. Try out something new, or follow dreams that your old job held you back from.