'I Have a Hidden Disability...' Should You Disclose, Setting Boundaries & How to Self-Advocate

Many of us don't realize the invisible disabilities that hold our colleagues or friends back. We see them every day at work, in meetings, or grabbing coffee, but beneath the surface, some are fighting battles we can't even imagine.

My guest, Suvinder has been silently battling lupus for 25 years while climbing the corporate ladder. Her story of blood clots, brain surgery, and boardroom pressures will make you rethink what strength really looks like. I’m later joined by Benjamin Tan, the CEO of World Vision SG, whose journey as a father to twins with special needs has reshaped his entire approach to work and life.

This conversation is a wake-up call for workplaces everywhere. We uncover numerous crucial lessons that could transform how we think about disability, caregiving, and what it means to create truly inclusive environments.

We tackle important questions:

• Should you disclose your invisible disability at work?

• How can you advocate for yourself without jeopardizing your career?

• What can employers do to create truly inclusive environments?

• How do you balance career ambitions with complex personal needs?

Here is What We Talk About: 

• The Power of Transparency: Suvinder kept her condition under wraps at first, thinking she could handle it solo. But as time went on, she realized being open about her condition actually helped. It wasn't always easy, but it allowed her to get the support she needed. Having these hard conversations can spark awareness and can even help others who are too afraid to disclose their medical complications, fearing it will make them targets of ableist discrimination. Sometimes, sharing our challenges can create unexpected connections and support.

• How to Advocate for Yourself: Suvinder became a pro at adapting her work style. She got herself an ergonomic chair, set strict work hours, and became the office 'historian' with her meticulous documentation. Ben figured out how to balance a demanding job with his family's needs, even finding ways to travel with his daughter despite her complex care requirements. It's all about finding what works for you and not being afraid to do things differently.

• Cultivating Inclusive Workplaces: Organizations must prioritize the development of comprehensive, inclusive policies and nurture a culture of empathy and understanding. This approach should encompass flexible working arrangements and appropriate accommodations, creating an environment where all employees can thrive regardless of their personal circumstances.

• Your Limits Aren’t Your Limits: Remember how Ben thought his family could never travel? Well, they started small with Penang, then tackled Taiwan, and now they're eyeing Shanghai. Suvinder kept pushing forward in her career despite multiple surgeries and health scares. These stories remind us that often, our biggest limitations can still be challenged. You may be more capable than you realize. 

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