Exploring independence, what does it really mean to you as an Occupational Therapist?

Date: 12/04/2016 Host: @OT_Rach

This week during #OTalk I would like us to explore this word ‘independence’, I have recently revaluated my understanding of this word following breaking my leg, and would be interested to hear what others thought. Read latest blog here

A dictionary definition of the word independent shows it has many meanings, including ‘not influenced or controlled by others in matters of opinion, conduct, etc.; thinking or acting for oneself.’ ‘Not dependent; not depending or contingent upon something else for existence, operation, etc.’ Not relying on another or others for aid or support, and in Politics. a person who votes for candidates, measures, etc., in accordance with his or her own judgment and without regard to the endorsement of, or the positions taken by, any party.’ http://www.dictionary.com/browse/independent

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Looking at these lyrics from a Destiny’s Child song, an independent woman is a financially independent one, who can buy her own things,

The shoes on my feet

I’ve bought it

The clothes I’m wearing

I’ve bought it

The rock I’m rockin’

‘Cause I depend on me

If I wanted the watch you’re wearin’

I’ll buy it

The house I live in

I’ve bought it

The car I’m driving

I’ve bought it

I depend on me

(I depend on me)

All the women who are independent

Throw your hands up at me

All the honeys who makin’ money

Throw your hands up at me

All the mommas who profit dollas

Throw your hands up at me

All the ladies who truly feel me

Throw your hands up at me

http://www.azlyrics.com/lyrics/destinyschild/independentwomen.html

When I discus the change in my independence with friends and family, it tends to focus on the physical, but independence is more than just physically being able to do things, Is it not? I find myself asking lots of question about what independence is and how valuable it is, so please join me on Tuesday to explore this further.

Rachel @OT_rach