Do you find yourself in the month of December doing a bit of reflection? I often do. As the year winds down, I'm reflecting on what has motivated me and all the adventures we have shared together. Make it Monday sessions and many others.
This year has been full of creative, joyful, and sometimes challenging moments. It's been a privilege to work with such energetic and imaginative individuals who keep me inspired. Together, we've created, learned, shared, laughed and tackled frustrations. Through it all, we've found common ground in what matters to our small community. These experiences are my greatest motivation.
As an Occupational Therapist, I'm deeply aware of the importance of each individual's voice. Everyone deserves the opportnity to make choices, express themselves, and set expectations - both for themselves and for me. My role is to provide the framework, tools, and safe environment for exploration. Whether through creativity or problem-solving, I aim to foster independence and self-expressions. And this holds true for everyone, not just those I work with directly.
Additionally, I am challenged as an Occupational Therapist to look at each individual as just that: an individual with challenges, needs, hopes and dreams like so many others. That can include all of us. My job is to continuually assess their unique abilities and wishes. For example, one individual has expressed how much they value receiving feedback from me while working on a task, stating "because you are the expert". What an incredible compliment! Another individual requires more one-on-one support and benefits from the tasks often being prepared in advance. This person enjoys making choices and when given the opportunity, demonstrates a strong desire for particular details during the task, work skills, or activities. I acknowledge and support their answers, whether yes or no. Sometimes with further reflection, their reasons, answers and ideas evolve. This is teaching us both the value of taking time to think before answering or guiding.
A newer friend of mine is just beginning the journey with me. My focus is on observing, having conversations, and acknowledging their input. Whether responses are verbal or non-verbal, it's essential to honor them. Through these moments of observation and engagement, I can continue to explore, plan, and help everyone succeed.
We all benefit from modifications and adaptations. In my work, I often teach and guide through modeling, practice, and sometimes a great deal of repetition. Progress comes in many forms: a milestone reached quickly, a breakthrough after extended effort, or an unexpected moment of growth. Witnessing these moments in real-time is an incredible reward.
Each of us marches to the beat of our own drum, and that individuality is key to the creative process. Independence in creativity is a powerful motivator, both for those I work with and for me. Seeing the smiles and accomplishement - those "I did it!" moments - drives me forward. Those smiles reflect joy, achievement, and sometimes even surprise at their own success.
Meeting new friends and learning about their unique abilities and needs fuels my creativity and problem solving. It's a two-way street: while I guide and support them, they inspires and challenge me to grow. Together, we can build connections and celebreate progress, not matter how big or small.
As we look to 2025, I'm filled with hope and excitement. We have so many dreams, plans, and ideas for the year ahead. Our goal is to reach more individuals, foster meaningful connections, and grow our Etsy shop, Ability Unleashed. This growth not only provides a platform for creativity and accomplishment but also builds a supportive community where everyone can thrive.
I believe that motivation is reciprocal. While I strive to inspire and guide those around me, they, in turn, motivate me to keep going. I'm grateful for each person who has been part of the journey, and I'm excited to see what is next.
Thank you for being part of this adventure. Let's continue this journey together in 2025 and beyond. Check out our Etsy shop AbilityUnleashed.
Wishing you a joyful holiday season ~Pam