Alright, let’s get into it—self-sufficiency. With all the modern conveniences we’ve got—grocery stores on every corner, fast food just a drive-thru away—some folks think self-sufficiency is outdated. But if the last few years have shown us anything, it’s that relying on those conveniences can be a shaky bet. Remember COVID? We all saw firsthand how quickly store shelves can go empty, how fragile our supply chains are, and how fast things can spiral when everyone’s dependent on “the system” working perfectly. Spoiler alert: it doesn’t.
Those of us who knew how to do things for ourselves, who could grow some food, preserve what we had, raise a few chickens—we got through that madness a whole lot better than people who relied on fast food and grocery stores for every meal. It wasn’t easy for anyone, but having that bit of independence meant we didn’t have to panic every time essentials were out of stock or prices shot up. And honestly, COVID was just a taste. Now, with the economy and global stability on shaky ground again, self-sufficiency is looking even more valuable.
Self-sufficiency isn’t about going full survivalist or abandoning modern life altogether. It’s about having the skills and resources to weather whatever comes our way without needing to rely on a system that’s proven it can break down on a whim. It’s about knowing that if the stores are empty, or if prices spike overnight, you can still take care of yourself and your family. That’s not old-fashioned—it’s smart.
People today have gotten so used to convenience that they’ve forgotten what it means to be prepared. I’m not saying everyone needs to go out and start raising their own livestock or planting a mini-farm. But knowing a few basics—how to grow some vegetables, preserve what you harvest, or even just fix a simple household problem—can be a game-changer. It’s a backup plan, but one that puts you in control instead of leaving you scrambling.
And don’t buy into the myth that self-sufficiency is too hard, too time-consuming, or unnecessary. It’s actually freeing. Imagine walking out to your backyard, picking fresh produce, gathering a few eggs, or knowing you can handle a basic repair without calling someone. That’s independence, that’s control over your own life. When you’re self-sufficient, you’re not as vulnerable to big corporations, government policies, or global supply issues. You’ve got your own little safety net.
So, does self-sufficiency still matter? You bet it does. COVID taught us just how fast everything can go south. And now, with even more uncertainty, there’s never been a better time to start learning a few of these skills. Trust me—take a few steps toward self-sufficiency today, and you’ll sleep a little better tomorrow.
Until next time,
Traci
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