In the 21st century, self-sufficiency is becoming increasingly important. But with economic fluctuations, we’ve seen since 2008, and an increasing cost of living, it is becoming increasingly difficult to make ends meet for millions of people in Western democracies.
So what are the obvious benefits to being generally self-sufficient?
First, it can save you money. When you grow your own food, you don’t have to pay for groceries. The same goes for when you repair your own car, you don’t have to pay for a mechanic, or make your own clothes.
Second, being self-sufficient will give you a sense of control over your life. When you know how to do things for yourself, you don’t have to rely on others. This is incredibly empowering, especially in times of crisis.
Third, being self-sufficient can help you to live a more sustainable lifestyle. It seems like a buzzword bandwagon nowadays, however, virtue signaling aside I do think we should all be living as sustainably as possible. The world has finite resources (they’re going to run out for someone, someday) and while it may not be you that suffers the loss of these resources, it will affect later generations. Don’t be a dick.
Of course, there are also challenges to being self-sufficient. It takes time, effort, and knowledge to learn how to do things for yourself, so find a group, fall into the YouTube vortex and get busy learning. The rewards are more than worth it.
If you are interested in becoming more self-sufficient, there are tons of resources available to help you get started. There are books, websites, and classes but I have to say my default is usually YouTube in the first instance.
The best way to learn is by doing. Don’t be afraid to start, it doesn’t have to be a life-changing change, I’d recommend you don’t go too big too soon. Start by growing a few vegetables in your backyard, or learn how to change a flat tire. And as you gain more confidence, you can start taking on more challenging projects.
Becoming more self-sufficient is a journey, not a destination. But it is a journey that is well worth taking.
Here are a few tips for becoming more self-sufficient:
- Start small. Don’t try to do too much at once. Start by learning one new skill at a time.
- Find a mentor. Find someone who is already self-sufficient and can teach you the ropes.
- Join a community. There are many communities of self-sufficient people who can offer support and advice.
- Be patient. It takes time and effort to become self-sufficient. Don’t get discouraged if you don’t see results immediately.
You’re welcome.
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