I am just 2 weeks from my third annual review in Self-Determination. Where has all the time gone? I had so many breaks going in for me with Self-Determination. I have simple, uncomplicated needs and a tiny budget. What has been a game changer for me is I have a modest income that supplements my SDP budget and spending plan. I don’t worry about how I will get my budget to pay for it. My budget is so tiny I would be powerless to do much of anything. But with my income I can target purchases and supports. I purchased tech support to help me get this blog up and running. I also purchase tech support whenever I run into computer difficulties. I paid out of pocket for these services because I needed them and as I said my budget is tiny.
You may have more complex and involved needs requiring negotiation to set a budget. That can take time and effort, and be very frustrating. While negotiating remember to be respectful and try to listen to what others are saying. That doesn’t mean selling out your needs, hopes, and dreams, but rather work with the other party to come up with a winning solution. Sometimes it will take the addition of a third party to resolve impasses.
Self-Advocacy teaches us the difference between events and process and negotiation is a process. We can remain confident, assured, and positive during the process, although we may encounter big differences in negotiations. Reaching solutions, agreements, and settlements requires a good deal of maturity. Once we have reached agreement on things like our plans and budget, we can get down to the exciting work of putting the plan into action.