How do I become more self-reliant?
When people think about self-reliance they may picture pioneers or farmers
who are hard at work. From sunup to sundown, sweat dripping as they labor under the
hot sun. It’s not a very appealing picture to the modern-day American. However, the
goal of self-sufficiency can be much more worthwhile and attainable thanks to modern
day innovations.
Being self-reliant isn’t an all or nothing endeavor. Most families, even many
farmers, may never become completely independent. Yet, taking these first few steps
to becoming self-sufficient can lead to a healthier, simpler, and more fulfilling life.
Here are 4 ways to make your life easier by being self-reliant.
1. Grow the Best Produce
Gardening may seem impossible depending on your lifestyle and where you live.
However, the benefits of homegrown produce is something each household would
greatly profit from. There are simple, yet rewarding ways for everyone to grow the best
produce. For those living a more urban city life, they may find a few pots or window
boxes to be helpful. A little watering here or there and they could soon have their own
herbs or vegetables to grab from. Rentable garden boxes and in home plant stands
have also become a popular option.
The suburban life brings a bit more space, but perhaps not enough. Families
living in these areas may enjoy raising a few chickens and growing a garden with a
higher variety. The health benefits and nutrition of home grown produce and fresh
eggs is beyond anything found at stores. Free from probiotics, antibiotics, hormones,
pesticides, and many other harmful additives, nothing can match this tastier and more
affordable alternative.
Interested in Building a greenhouse? See which style would be best for you
2. Cook from Scratch
Self-sufficiency means more than growing the best at home. It can also take the
form of breaking free from packaged foods that are riddled with preservatives and
other harmful ingredients. To those accustomed to frozen dinners, canned vegetables,
and powder mixes, this can be quite a change. The reward reaped from this lifestyle
shift is far greater than the effort needed. With practice, cook books, videos, and many
other resources, cooking from scratch can become as quick and simple as cooking with
pre-packaged ingredients. Putting time aside for intentionally cooking a meal can be a
time to reconnect with loved ones, refocus on your health, as well as slowing down the
rapid world we live in. Becoming more mindful and in the moment. Creating meals
with natural and homegrown ingredients can shift your path to a happier and
healthier one.
3. Clean with Natural Cleaners
As you move further down the path of self-reliance, you may find a cleaner
destination waiting for you. There are hundreds of ways to save money and to live
green by switching out cleaning supplies. Rather than covering the surfaces in your
with highly chemical and toxic cleaners, look towards the healthier alternative. Some
of the most basic elements of cleaning products can be found right there in your
pantry. Vinegar, baking powder, salt, and lemon juice are a cheaper and cleaner option
to clean your entire home. Find peace of mind in knowing that the surfaces you eat off
of and touch daily are safely cleaned, rather than consuming a chemical that can have
poor affects on the human body. Make the shift for a cleaner and healthier earth and
home!
4. Know the Solution
Self-reliance is not only a lifestyle, but also a mindset. It is becoming
increasingly popular to learn how to fulfill simple basic needs in day-to-day life.
Things like car and home repairs are easy to accomplish with resources such as
YouTube, Pinterest, and even Instagram. Knowledge is easily spread and shared from
skilled professionals. Many others have found “at home” life to be enjoyable and
convenient. Leading to things like homeschool, at home offices, and further
self-reliance. Simple skills to learn and add to your tool belt may be things like sewing,
canning, baking, gardening, and basic handyman repairs. When you begin to rely on
yourself more, you may find an increased power and freedom in not having to hire
outside sources that will quickly shrink your wallet!
In Closing
No need to fear a life of labor to be self-sufficient, rather you can find hope in
the benefits of healthy and helpful habits. Moving into these habits will give you
homegrown food, nutritious meals, green cleaning, and a new skill set. Wherever you
find your balance of following these 4 steps, you can cultivate an environment of
growth, learning, and expansion. Then reap the benefits as you step into a life of
self-reliance.
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