American Stroke Foundation

The video discusses what occupational balance is, how to reflect on your own occupational balance, and helps to create goals to find balance in your life.

Occupation has many definitions. When we refer to occupations, we are talking about what you do to occupy your time. This includes activities that are necessary and meaningful to you. Examples include dressing, cooking, connecting with others, etc.

Balance refers to equalizing different activities in your life. According to Petra Wagman and colleagues, “Occupational balance is having the right mix.” It is important to have a balance between work and play. Remember, it is not the same for everyone and does not have to be totally equal. Balance is also determined by those around us. If we feel supported, we will feel more balanced.

This is a visualization tool to use for self-awareness. This chart will not look the same for everyone. Examples of occupations to include on the chart include work, exercise, social support, eating, sleep, daily hygiene, medication management, and caregiving.

Once you have created your chart or reflected upon your own occupational balance, create some goals to help keep everything in the “just right” zone. An example of a goal is increasing your exercise by taking your pet on walks or just going for a walk yourself. Some other goals could be making sure you are setting your alarms and keeping a routine or calling a friend to check in once a week.