This is such a nuanced question and since everyone deals with it differently, it might be helpful to hear from a few OT’s that are doing it. OTPreneurs Justin Oakley, Emilia Bourland and Brandy Archie chat in this video clip about how they answer this very question. For the full convo check it out here!
Starting a private practice can be incredibly rewarding, but let’s be honest—it also changes the way work fits into your life. The dream of setting your own hours and having more flexibility is real, but so are the challenges of managing a business. So, how does entrepreneurship impact work-life balance for OTs? Let’s break it down.
The Pros: More Freedom, More Control
✅ You Set Your Own Schedule – No more rigid 9-to-5! You can choose when and how you work, making it easier to accommodate personal time, family, and self-care.
✅ You Choose Your Caseload – Unlike traditional jobs with overwhelming productivity demands, in private practice, you decide how many clients you take on and what pace works best for you.
✅ Work That Aligns With Your Values – You get to shape your practice around the populations, treatment styles, and goals that matter most to you. More meaningful work = greater job satisfaction.
The Challenges: Business Never Sleeps
⚠️ More Responsibilities – Beyond client care, you’re also handling billing, marketing, networking, and admin tasks. It’s easy for work to spill into personal time if you’re not careful.
⚠️ Inconsistent Workload – Some weeks might feel light, while others are packed with sessions, paperwork, and unexpected business needs. Without boundaries, it can become overwhelming.
⚠️ Financial Pressure – Unlike a steady paycheck, income in private practice can fluctuate. The need to plan ahead and stay organized can add extra stress.
Strategies to Maintain Balance
- Set Clear Work Hours – Even if you’re the boss, establish start and stop times to protect personal time.
- Outsource or Automate – Consider hiring admin help or using digital tools to manage scheduling, billing, and documentation.
- Schedule Breaks & Downtime – Just like you’d advise your clients, prioritize self-care and mental recharge to prevent burnout.
- Define Success on Your Terms – Your business should support your life, not take it over. Set realistic goals that align with your personal priorities.
The Bottom Line
Being in business doesn’t have to mean sacrificing work-life balance—but it does require intentional planning. With the right strategies, you can build a practice that gives you both professional fulfillment and personal freedom. 💙
Thinking about private practice but worried about balance? Consider finding an OT open to mentorship in the OTConnected Community!