ABSTRACT
This chapter discusses how everyday occupations can be outward expressions of human individuality yet inwardly understood as part of an ongoing story by the person doing them. It explains how stories about the self, or narratives, are the basis for identity, and for making sense of everyday events.
Personality traits, character strengths, and interests are presented as one approach for studying and understanding the individual differences that influence occupational preferences and choices. The chapter examines how these choices, and their resulting experiences, are woven together over time to try to create a coherent life story. It proceeds to illustrate how stressful life events can create difficult narratives, often leading to maladaptation.
In the final section, the chapter explores different definitions for the concept of meaning in the literature of occupational therapy and psychology. Throughout the chapter, a hypothetical client is used to illustrate the application of the concepts.
