Spoon Theory

The term “Spoon Theory” was originally coined in 2003 by writer Christine Miserandino in her essay, “The Spoon Theory”. In this essay, she uses spoons as a visual representation of a unit of measurement to chronicle her experience with Lupus, and to quantify the amount of mental and physical energy a person has available for use during their daily tasks. According to Miserandino, each activity requires a certain number of spoons which forces an individual to conserve their energy (or “spoons”) in order to complete these tasks in a given amount of time.

Small tasks such as showering or getting dressed may only require 1-2 spoons. Meanwhile, larger tasks such as cooking or paying bills may take up to 3-4 spoons. On days with increased pain or fatigue, the smallest and easiest of tasks may require additional spoons. In order to conserve their own energy, individuals must figure out how to spread out the use of their spoons throughout daily activities. Spoons are only replaced when energy is recharged through rest. For many people with chronic illnesses, sleep and rest do not always restore their energy, leaving them with a continued low supply of spoons.

Those who connect with this idea affectionately identify themselves and each other as fellow “Spoonies,” understanding that they all experience this invisible disability together.

To read Christine Miserandino’s essay on Spoon Theory, please click here.