đż Back to Basics: Living a More Self-Sufficient Lifestyle
Because real freedom starts at home.
Have you ever had that feelingâthat tug deep downâthat says, âI just want to live simpler, smarter, and more self-reliantâ?
If so, youâre in good company. These days, more and more people are trading convenience for confidence. And truthfully? There’s something comforting about knowing you can take care of yourself and your family, even if the store shelves are bare or the power goes out for days.
Letâs sit down and talk about what it really means to live a self-sufficient lifestyle. No pressure, no hypeâjust real talk.
Why is a Self-Sufficient Lifestyle is on Everyoneâs Mind
Weâve all seen what can happen when supply chains break down or prices skyrocket overnight. But beyond the fear of âwhat if,â there’s a quiet craving for something deeper:
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Peace of mind
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The satisfaction of working with your hands
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Healthier food straight from your backyard
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Raising kids who understand responsibility
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And yes, even saving money on gas, groceries, and more
A self-sufficient lifestyle doesnât mean going off-grid (unless you want to). It just means learning how to rely more on yourselfâand less on fragile systems.
What Does Self-Sufficiency Look Like?
Everyoneâs path is different, but here are a few common things you need to do:
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Hobby farms with chickens, rabbits, or goats – You might have to learn to butcher them yourself. Not enjoyable – but necessary.
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Vegetable gardens and fruit trees
- First aid skills and learning how to make your own natural remedies. Enjoy salves, poultices and tinctures from plants you’ve grown yourself. Â
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Canning, dehydrating, or vacuum sealing food
- Collecting rainwater (if your state allows it). This can be invaluable. Water is everything!!
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Living in smaller homesâor just using space more wisely
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Learning old-school skills like sewing, or woodworking
- Having an alternate source of heat – A wood stove is a must if you live in a cold climate. Â
- Having an alternate source of power. A generator can be life-saving when the power is out. Â
For many folks, it also includes gardening, downsizing, working from home, and simplifying their lives in ways that feel less franticâand a whole lot more meaningful.
“Preparedness isn’t Panic — It’s Peace of Mind!”
How to Get Started (Without Getting Overwhelmed)
You donât have to jump into full-blown homesteading overnight. But if this lifestyle is calling you, here are some smart first steps:
đĄ Talk It Over with Your Family
This is a big change, and having everyone on board makes all the difference.
đşď¸ Decide Where You Want to Live and choose the right property.
Look for a location that fits your climate needs. Southern states like Tennessee offer long growing seasons, natural water sources, and rural properties that still feel close to civilization.
Pro tip: Find a Realtor who understands self-sufficient living. Theyâll be your eyes and ears when it comes to things like âlive water,â soil quality, and agricultural zoning. I’ve found many properties for people looking for a self-sufficient lifestyle. These were always some of my favorite clients. I guess we talked the same language.
Water is an absolute MUST! It can be a well, creek, spring or cistern. Or your own water collection system – but that will eventually run out during dry periods.
I would stay off state highways – find something in the country that takes a few minutes to get to. Decide how far you want to be away from shopping, hospitals, etc. and stay within that distance.
Existing outbuildings will save you a lot of money because they can get very expensive to build.
A place to grow a garden with good southern exposure for lots of sun.

đ° Establish a Budget
Land, tools, fencing, small livestockâit all adds up. Plan ahead, look for lenders that work with acreage, and get pre-approved so youâre ready to act fast.
Plan Your Garden Well. And don’t forget the hardware for plants to climb on.
đż Try Raised Beds or Square Foot Gardening
Raised beds are easier on the knees, perfect for tight spaces, and can be built as high as needed for accessibility.
đ Keep Critters Out
Fencing is a must. Trust meâdeer, rabbits, and squirrels know the exact day your tomatoes ripen!
đ§ Water Wisely
Overwatering is just as harmful as underwatering. Get a basic soaker hose system or learn how to deep-water your roots.
đ¸ Companion Planting Works
Add marigolds, basil, and mosquito plants to keep bugs at bay and improve growth.
Want information on Starting a Garden for Beginners?
What Youâll Learn (and Why It Matters)
This lifestyle isnât always easyâbut itâs deeply rewarding. Youâll learn:
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How to troubleshoot a garden
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How to preserve food without electricity
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Which animals need what kind of care
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And most importantly, how capable you really are
Thereâs something incredible about putting food on the table that you grew yourself. Or watching your kids gather eggs and feed the chickens. Itâs not just survival. Itâs soul-filling.
Donât ForgetâItâs Okay to Ask for Help
Youâre not in this alone. Whether youâre just daydreaming or already planning your move, Iâm here to cheer you on and answer questions. Iâve lived it. Iâve sold the land. Iâve walked these pastures. And Iâd be honored to walk this journey with you.
Final Thoughts
Living a self-sufficient lifestyle isnât about prepping for the end of the world. Itâs about creating a better world for you and your familyâone where you can breathe, grow, build, and thrive. So if this way of life is tugging at your heart, donât ignore it.
Start where you are. Use what you have. Do what you can. Please contact me with any questions or comments. I look forward to hearing from you.