CleaverFox
In the Brooder
When I started on self sufficiency I basically looked at my life (before starting) and everything I did, used, consumed, paid for, etc etc. I was lucky to have very self sufficient handy parents that made and did a lot. So I had a good start. But it helps to start with what you actively do and use, as well as what interests you. Then you don’t get burnt out and/or overwhelmed so quick.
Fo instance, family goes through a lot of bread? Learn to make a favorite everyday sandwich loaf. Love yogurt? Learn to make it! Holes in clothes constantly? Figure out how to fix them. Kids pants growing too short, before they’re too tight? Learn how to hem, make shorts or skirts from them.
You may already know how to do lots of the things mentioned above, but it’s just examples to get the idea across.
I love candles and smelly stuff, so I learned how to make them. I wanted a soap that bubbled like this one, moisturized like that one but smelled like this one over here! (Had one of those moments? Lol) So, I dove into soap chemistry and ingredient properties and made it. Figured out a recipe. Not without trial and error....and learning failures. But still!
For me it’s just saying for...whatever...I could do that, or figure it out, and I do. It’s not without pitfalls, but I haven’t burned anything down as of yet, so we’re still on the up and up.
Also, as far as repairs. Engines, electronics, appliances, whatever...my Dad had a saying...Well, it’s already broke...what’s the worst that could happen? Lol.
It’s an adventure, and shouldn’t feel so much like an undertaking. Let it be fun and organic.
Fo instance, family goes through a lot of bread? Learn to make a favorite everyday sandwich loaf. Love yogurt? Learn to make it! Holes in clothes constantly? Figure out how to fix them. Kids pants growing too short, before they’re too tight? Learn how to hem, make shorts or skirts from them.
You may already know how to do lots of the things mentioned above, but it’s just examples to get the idea across.
I love candles and smelly stuff, so I learned how to make them. I wanted a soap that bubbled like this one, moisturized like that one but smelled like this one over here! (Had one of those moments? Lol) So, I dove into soap chemistry and ingredient properties and made it. Figured out a recipe. Not without trial and error....and learning failures. But still!
For me it’s just saying for...whatever...I could do that, or figure it out, and I do. It’s not without pitfalls, but I haven’t burned anything down as of yet, so we’re still on the up and up.
Also, as far as repairs. Engines, electronics, appliances, whatever...my Dad had a saying...Well, it’s already broke...what’s the worst that could happen? Lol.
It’s an adventure, and shouldn’t feel so much like an undertaking. Let it be fun and organic.
