When we talk about "OT Yourself to Freedom," what does that actually mean when we break it down? Freedom is a word that evokes countless images: the open road, no alarm clocks, and perhaps even the absence of a traditional nine-to-five job. We often associate freedom with the idea of adventure—leaving behind routines, embracing the unknown, and feeling the wind in our hair. However, freedom is an intensely personal experience. What feels liberating to one person might feel confining to another.

 The Many Faces of Freedom

The dictionary defines freedom as "the state of being free or at liberty rather than in confinement or under physical restraint; exemption from external control, interference, regulation, etc." But this broad definition leaves plenty of room for interpretation. For some, like myself, freedom meant breaking away from the constraints of having an employer. I craved the ability to choose my work schedule, my location, and my working conditions. A mere 37 days of annual leave wasn’t going to cut it for me. Freedom, in my eyes, was about escaping the traditional employment structure, removing financial limitations, and having the flexibility to be where I wanted, when I wanted.

But what if you enjoy having an employer? Does that make you any less free? Absolutely not. Freedom can also mean having the security of a steady job that brings you joy, fulfilment, and peace of mind. If your work is something you choose and you’re happy with it, then you are free because you're not there against your will or under duress.

 Choice: The Core of Freedom

Choice is a significant component of freedom. How much choice do you desire? In my early years as an Occupational Therapist (OT), I wanted the simplicity of employment. I preferred the comfort of a stable job, seeing clients, and leaving work at work. The idea of being self-employed, with all its uncertainties, didn't appeal to me at the time. But life changes, and suddenly, my job felt less like a choice and more like a necessity. I felt trapped by the need to earn money, and that’s when my concept of freedom started to evolve.

Interestingly, my daughter often tells me she hates having too many choices. Choices can bring the fear of making the wrong decision, leading to guilt or regret. For some, this can be paralysing. So, while the ability to choose is a hallmark of freedom, it’s not always the blessing we assume it to be.

 The Illusion of Freedom

We often think of freedom as physical or geographical. The dream of travelling or moving to new places sounds appealing. But not everyone shares this dream. Some people find deep satisfaction and freedom in being rooted in a local community, building relationships, and creating stability.

There was a time when my family sold our home and moved into a campervan. We believed we were embracing freedom. We had a one-way ticket to Europe and no plans. However, reality set in, and with two sugar-fuelled kids in a confined space, our supposed freedom felt more like being trapped. Then the pandemic hit, borders closed, and suddenly our adventure turned into a lockdown nightmare. The campervan that symbolises freedom became a prison on wheels.

These experiences taught me that freedom isn't necessarily about what we do or where we go. Instead, it's about how we feel inside. It's about being free from fears, limiting beliefs, and external pressures. It’s about having confidence and self-belief, knowing that we have the power to shape our lives according to our true desires.

 Defining Your Own Freedom

I invite you to interpret "OT Yourself to Freedom" in a way that resonates with you. Whether it's inner freedom, financial freedom, time freedom, or all of the above, your version of freedom is yours to define. For many, like me, it involves stepping away from traditional employment and exploring entrepreneurship.

But even entrepreneurship isn't a one-size-fits-all solution. Some business models start out feeling liberating but end up draining. That's why it's essential to consider using the online space to remove time and location barriers. Online business models can allow you to make money while you sleep or enjoy time with family. They provide the flexibility to travel or stay put, and they offer access to a global market.

 Financial Freedom Through Online Business

True financial freedom comes when your income exceeds your outgoings, even if you’re not actively working. This level of passive income can be achieved by leveraging online systems, automations, and delegating tasks. These tools allow you to create a business that works for you, giving you more time to enjoy life.

Integrating your passion into your work can also create a sense of freedom. When your job aligns with your hobbies and interests, work doesn’t feel like work. You lose track of time because you’re genuinely engaged and enjoying what you do. This harmony between passion and profession is where true freedom lies.

 Finding Your Path to Freedom

I "OT'd" myself to freedom by assessing my life, digging deep to understand my values and purpose, and then designing a business that aligns with those values. My work now energises me. I help others understand themselves, find their purpose, and create businesses that bring them freedom and joy. When my clients reach a point where their income surpasses their previous OT salary, they are free to choose their path forward, just as I did.

 Conclusion: Embrace Your Version of Freedom

Freedom is not a one-size-fits-all concept. It’s not just about quitting your job, travelling the world, or living in a van. It’s about finding what makes you feel alive and fulfilled. It’s about having the choice to design a life that suits your needs and desires. Whether that means more time, more money, more adventure, or more stability, the key is to discover what freedom means to you.

Curious to hear more about what freedom could mean for you? Tune into the episode below, where we explore these ideas further and share real-life experiences that might resonate with your own journey.