The purpose of this paper was to look at the perception of self-determination for adults with intellectual disabilities from their perspective. We wanted to examine the experience of the space available for self-determination in some key areas of life, and how their own thoughts and ideas have been addressed by others. Through interviews with six people with intellectual disabilities, we have found that a single definition of self-determination is elusive. The key seems to be that you get the opportunity to do what you want, to have your voice heard and to receive and take responsibility. The space for self-determination is perceived by respondents as both large and small. It is seen as large in relation to where you want to work, though within secure areas, and choices related to food situations. Smaller in relation to the home, leisure and love. Least in relation to where to live. The fact that there were not always alternatives in the choice of where to live was not perceived as a restriction to self-determination in itself, but it can lead to uncertainty about subsequent choices. The response to their own thoughts and ideas were interpreted as almost the same as the scope for autonomy. Thus, both good and bad. The key seems to at least get to be a co-player in the choice related to oneself, and to be able to compromise from both sides. Both from those who want something and from those who have the power to execute that will.