Entrepreneurship with Endometriosis: Building a Business That Works for You

I’ve worked in marketing since I was 16, but my battle with endometriosis started way earlier - at 11 years old. Painful periods, fainting, vomiting - none of it was normal, yet it took 11 years of constant GP visits before I was finally sent for diagnostic surgery at 22. By then, I was collapsing at work and on my morning commute so often that pretending everything was fine just wasn’t an option anymore.

Through it all, my career was my anchor - it gave me purpose and joy. But the relentless cycle of pain, doctor visits, and a high-pressure 9–5:30 job took its toll. Even as I campaigned for endometriosis awareness, partnered with Endometriosis UK to set up the first East Sussex Support Group, and even represented Endometriosis UK at campaigning and research events, I wasn’t prioritising my own health. I kept pushing through - until my body quite literally shut down. A hospital stay forced me to rethink everything. My body and mind were breaking down, and I knew something had to change.

So, I took control. I finally started the business I’d been putting off for years, ditched the traditional workday, and built a routine that works for me— - not against me. Now, as I await my third surgery (yep, endo is the gift that keeps on giving), I can honestly say running my own business has made me happier, healthier, and way more in control of my life.

In honour of Endometriosis Action Month, here are my top tips for running a business while managing a chronic illness - because you deserve to work in a way that actually works for you.

1. Work with Your Body, Not Against It

Your body has its own schedule, and spoiler alert: it doesn’t care about the corporate 9–5. Instead of forcing myself into an outdated routine, I structure my workday around my best energy levels. I’m sharpest in the morning, so I start early and log off before the dreaded afternoon crash. I also build in time to rest when I need it - because pushing through isn’t heroic, it’s just a shortcut to burnout.

2. Be Upfront and Set Boundaries

No one benefits from you running yourself into the ground - not your clients, not your business, and definitely not you. I make it clear from the start that I’ve built my business around my health, and I set boundaries to protect that. This means realistic deadlines, limiting calls to when I know I can handle them, and working with people who respect that I may not always be available on demand. Spoiler: the right clients don’t just accept this - they admire it.

3. Prioritise Your Health (It’s Non-Negotiable!)

There’s no prize for working through pain and exhaustion. If I need a break, I take it. If I have a doctor’s appointment, I go - no guilt, no over-explaining. My business runs better when I’m well, and I refuse to apologise for taking care of myself.

4. Automate and Simplify Everything You Can

Chronic illness means you have to be smart with your energy. I rely on scheduling tools, automated invoicing, and project management software to handle the stuff that doesn’t need my constant attention. The less time I spend on admin, the more time I have for the work that actually matters.

5. Build a Support System (No, You’re Not Superhuman)

Running a business can be isolating, especially when dealing with a chronic illness. Surround yourself with people who get it - whether that’s fellow entrepreneurs, friends who remind you to actually rest, or the wonderful Co-Women community. You do not have to do it all alone.

6. Embrace Flexibility and Give Yourself Grace

Some days, you’ll conquer your to-do list like an absolute boss. Other days, just making it out of bed is an achievement. And guess what? That’s okay. Success isn’t about grinding yourself into the ground - it’s about building a business that supports your life, not the other way around. Give yourself permission to rest, adapt, and redefine productivity on your terms.

Endometriosis - and any chronic illness - throws plenty of challenges your way, but it also teaches resilience, adaptability, and the art of setting boundaries like a pro. By designing your business around your needs, being transparent, and prioritising your well-being, you can create a work-life balance that actually works for you.

This Endometriosis Action Month, I hope these tips empower other entrepreneurs navigating similar challenges. Your health matters, your work is valuable, and you deserve a business that supports both. If any other endo or women’s health warriors would like to reach out for support, message me anytime at lydia@remarkabull.co.uk.

http://remarkabull.co.uk