Blog 9: Occupational Balance
This week I started a painting that I will finish up next week. So far I have three pine trees. Any suggestions on what I should paint with them?
A time in my life when I had occupational balance was around this time last year. During this time, I was working as a waitress and caregiver. I was preparing my application for this OT program. I was also consistently hitting the gym and going for runs. I view this period of time as being balanced because I feel like I had a nice mix of occupations throughout the week. My finances were in order, I was working on an educational goal, and I was prioritizing my physical health. In addition, my waitress job allowed me to spend time socializing with friends and gave me the chance to meet new people. I do not remember feeling overly stressed out or like I was under too much pressure. However, I do not remember feeling like life was too easy either. I feel that I was right in between the two.
This concept of balance has shifted since starting graduate school. I have definitely had to prioritize school over many of my other occupations for the time being. I am not able to get to the gym as often as I used to (unless I were to get up earlier in the morning… no thanks.) I also had to cut back on work hours since starting school. I really struggled with this change in the beginning of the semester, but I’ve been able to implement more balance back into my daily routine as I’ve found my rhythm.
I’ve noticed that staying organized and writing down a daily to-do list helps me stay balanced. I have a goal each day to do one active thing even if it’s just going for a walk outside for 30 minutes. I also have a boundary with myself that I need at least 7-8 hours of sleep a night so my mood is in balance the following day. Participating in painting has given me a whole new creative outlet in my occupational schedule. In the past, I have never routinely participated in anything artsy. I believe that painting has added another dimension to my occupational balance through recharging my emotional state.
Hey Kirsta, I definitely relate to putting the gym on the back burner and the struggle that it comes with. Your painting looks so good, you can see the improvements you've made each week. I think you should add maybe some snow and deer into your painting, it would be super cute, but no matter what you add it'll turn out amazing. Beeing organized and taking time to just get some physical exercise and making sure you are getting adequate sleep can make such a big difference. Since you mentioned that painting has been a positive experience within your occupational balance, is it something you think you'll keep pursuing weekly after the semester is completed?
ReplyDeleteHi Jordon! I think adding snow and a deer is a great idea. I have had a very positive experience with my new occupation, however I do not plan on continuing to paint every week from here on out. I do see myself painting in the future, but more like once a month realistically speaking. I have been looking at those group paint classes online so I might give that a try over christmas break when I have more free time! :)
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