Step 2 – Assessing Your Resources and Needs

Now that you have defined your self-sufficient goals, it’s time to take a closer look at the resources and support you have available to you.

  • To start, make a list of your current resources, such as your land, home, tools, equipment, and supplies. 
  • Consider things like your climate, soil quality, water availability, and access to sunlight. 

These resources will play a major role in determining what self-sufficient activities you can pursue.

Next, consider your needs.

  •  What do you and your family need to live a comfortable and fulfilling life?
  • Think about things like
    1. food,
    2. water,
    3. shelter,
    4. energy,
    5. transportation,
    6. healthcare, and
    7. entertainment, 
    8. level of luxury & comfort

Be sure to include treats and pleasurable things, no-one is attracted to hardship.

Once you have a clear understanding of your resources and needs, you can start identifying areas where you can become more self-sufficient.

For example,

  1. If you have a large backyard with plenty of sunlight, you may want to start growing your own food.
  2. If you have access to a water source, you may want to consider harvesting and storing your own water.
  3. If you live in a climate with long, cold winters, you may want to focus on generating your own energy to heat your home.
  4. If you happen to have a lake (I’m moving in with you) or river nearby, you might want to get a small boat for fun and fishing. While you’re at it, throw in some water sports equipment. A merry heart is medicine for the soul. Oh! and you can add some fish to that lake too.

By assessing your resources, needs, and wants or wishes, you can prioritize the self-sufficient activities that will have the greatest impact on your lifestyle and meet your goals.

Remember to be realistic and start small.

Becoming self-sufficient takes time and effort, so don’t try to do everything at once.

Focus on the things that are most important to you and work your way up to more advanced skills and techniques as you gain more experience.

Steps List