Things you can do to become more self-sufficient

Self-reliance is the ability to rely on oneself and one’s own resources to meet one’s needs. In today’s world, where many of us are dependent on external resources for our basic needs, becoming more self-reliant can be a powerful way to take control of our lives and reduce our dependence on outside sources. Here are some tips to help you become more self-reliant:

1. Grow Your Own Food: Growing your own food is a great way to become more self-sufficient. Even if you don’t have a large garden, you can start small with container plants or a small raised bed. Not only will you save money, but you’ll also have fresh and nutritious produce at your fingertips.
2. Cook From Scratch: Cooking from scratch is not only healthier, but it can also save you money and make you more self-sufficient. Instead of relying on processed foods, learn how to make your own meals from basic ingredients. This can be as simple as making your own bread or as complex as learning to can your own vegetables.
3. Learn Basic Home Repairs: Knowing how to fix basic home repairs can save you money and make you more self-sufficient. Start with simple repairs like fixing a leaky faucet or unclogging a drain, and work your way up to more complex projects.
4. Reduce Your Energy Consumption: One of the best ways to be self-sufficient is to reduce your energy consumption. You can do this by using energy-efficient appliances, turning off lights and electronics when not in use, and using natural light and ventilation whenever possible.
5. Practice Water Conservation: Water is a precious resource, and conserving it is an important part of being self-sufficient. You can conserve water by taking shorter showers, fixing leaks, and collecting rainwater for use in your garden.
6. Learn to Preserve Food: Preserving food is a great way to save money and be more self-sufficient. You can learn to can, freeze food or dehydrate food and store it in Mylar Bags to make it last longer.
7. Get Involved in Your Community: Getting involved in your community can help you be more self-sufficient. You can join a community garden, barter with neighbors for goods and services, and learn from others who are also striving for self-sufficiency.
8. Keep Bees: Beekeeping is a fascinating and rewarding hobby that can help you be more self-sufficient. Not only do bees provide delicious honey, but they also play a critical role in pollinating plants and crops. By keeping bees, you can help maintain a healthy and sustainable ecosystem for your garden and community. Here is a great blog for hobby beekeeper in New Zealand.  NZBeekeeper.
9. Start Hunting and Fishing: Hunting and fishing are great for becoming more self-sufficient because they provide a sustainable source of fresh, natural food while fostering essential survival skills and a deeper connection to nature. The best way to start is to join a local club like an NZDA Branch.

Becoming more self-sufficient and self-reliant is a journey, not a destination. By taking small steps and making changes over time, you can become more self-reliant and reduce your reliance on outside resources. Whether you’re growing your own food, fixing a leaky faucet, or keeping bees, every little bit counts towards a more sustainable and self-sufficient lifestyle.