Function

Is one of the six F words we use when we think about the whole person with a disability.

Function means living your own life fully. It is doing the things you want to do. It also means doing your best work.

No person is just a disability or health condition. Each of us is a whole person. We might not each do things the same way as everyone else. We might not do everything perfectly.

Function is not about “HOW” you do a job, but that you “GET IT DONE”. And we all have strengths we use to get it done.

What are your strengths? Can you describe yourself with a few strengths from this list?

If you need help, ask someone you trust to help.

Think about how your strengths help you get things done.

BRAVE	HONEST	HARD WORKER	NEVER GIVE UP	FULL OF ENERGY
KIND	LOVING	WATCHFUL	GOOD WITH PEOPLE	FULL OF JOY
FAIR	A LEADER	A TEAM PLAYER	A GOOD LISTENER	OPEN TO IDEAS
FORGIVING	HUMBLE	FOLLOW RULES	THINK IT THROUGH	GIVE SPACE TO OTHERS
GRATEFUL	HOPEFUL	FUNNY	SPIRITUAL	LOVER OF BEAUTY

_{Adapted from Peterson and Seligman- VIA Classification of Character Strengths}

Self-advocates

Are people who speak for themselves.

They know what they are good at doing (strengths) and what they are not good at doing (needs). They also know who to ask for help (supports) and ask them for help when they need it.

Use this Self-Advocate Handout to practice explaining your own strengths and needs and supports.

Self-Advocate Handout