The Good News We Don’t Hear Enough: People with Disabilities Are Working!
After reading the latest LinkedIn research on disability and work, I felt encouraged—and honestly, affirmed.
So often, the narrative around disability and employment is framed around what isn’t happening: barriers, gaps, and limitations. While those challenges are real and still need attention, this report highlights something equally important:
- People with disabilities are working.
- They are staying employed.
- And they are building careers.
That matters.
What the Data Tells Us (in Human Terms)
The research shows that most people with disabilities who enter the workforce remain in it. They are not leaving work at higher rates. They are showing up, contributing, and adapting—just like everyone else navigating an unpredictable world of work.
One insight stood out to me:
People with disabilities often advance by changing jobs, rather than being promoted within the same company.
That’s not a weakness.
That’s strategy.
It tells me people with disabilities are resilient, resourceful, and willing to make bold moves when opportunity doesn’t come easily. They’re not waiting to be “allowed” to grow—they’re finding ways to grow anyway.
A Generational Shift Worth Celebrating
Another hopeful sign is what’s happening with younger workers.
Young adults with disabilities are entering the workforce and staying employed at rates closer than ever to their non-disabled peers. That tells me something important is changing—not fast enough, but enough to notice.
More awareness.
More accessibility.
More conversations that weren’t happening years ago.
Progress doesn’t mean the work is finished—but it does mean the work is working.
This Isn’t Just a Disability Story—It’s a Human One
Disability is not separate from life.
It’s part of the human experience.
Some of us live with disability every day.
Some of us will later in life.
And all of us rely on systems, support, and opportunity to thrive.
When people with disabilities succeed at work, it doesn’t lower the bar—it raises the standard for inclusion, creativity, and perseverance in the workplace.
Why This Good News Matters
Good news matters because it changes expectations.
It reminds employers that people with disabilities are not a risk—they’re an asset.
It reminds communities that inclusion isn’t charity—it’s common sense.
And it reminds people with disabilities themselves that their presence in the workforce is not an exception—it’s normal.
Moving Forward
Yes, there is still work to do—especially around internal promotions, accessibility, and long-term career growth. But today, I choose to pause and acknowledge the progress.
Because recognizing what’s going right gives us the strength to keep pushing for what still needs to change.
People with disabilities are working.
They are contributing.
And they are part of the future of work.
And that is very good news.
If you are looking for ways to develop yourself personally or professionally as you adapt to life after a physical disability and would like to elevate and expedite your journey, schedule a free consultation and find out how I can help get you there!
