So.. want to know what does being self reliant mean? In this article, we take a deep dive about what being self-reliant practically looks like, differences from other terms like self-sufficiency, if you should pursue self-reliance and resources to help you start the journey. By the end, you will not only know what being self-reliant means but if its the right life journey for you and your unique situation. Spoiler: it is one of the best decision I ever made for me and my family and it is why we are not only financially free but truly independent today.

Before we dive in, if you’re already exploring this journey of self-sufficiency, don’t miss out on my free Self-Sufficiency Essentials Checklist! It’s packed with practical tips and tools to help you kickstart your self-reliant lifestyle.

Related Self-Sufficiency Resources

• What is self-sufficiency?
• 13 self-sufficiency skills you need to have
• How to stop buying groceries and be self-sufficient
• How to build a self-sufficient pantry

My Journey to Self-Reliance

I’ll be honest—getting here wasn’t easy. Before the pandemic, my family’s life looked pretty typical. It wasn’t much different than any other average American family. But when the pandemic hit, everything changed. I was nearly nine months pregnant, the world was shutting down, and my boss refused to let me work from home—even as my feet were swollen and a mysterious illness was sweeping the globe. I was stuck, relying on a system that didn’t care about my well-being. It was a wake-up call. I realized that I couldn’t say no because I wasn’t self-reliant—I was trapped in a system that dictated my choices. Something had to change.

Over time, I started building the skills I needed. From smarter budgeting to learning how to fix a broken appliance, every small step made me trust myself a little more. I discovered that the more I could handle on my own, the more empowered I felt. And now? My family is in a much stronger position. We can say no to situations that don’t align with our values or desires because we’ve built a life rooted in self-reliance. It’s freeing, it’s empowering, and it’s something I want for you too.

You’re here for a reason. You’re curious, and that curiosity is the first step. I hope this is the start of your own journey as well.

What Does It Mean To Be Self Reliant?

Self-reliance is all about trusting yourself to handle whatever life throws your way—emotionally, financially, and physically. And let me tell you, it’s such an empowering feeling! It’s not about pushing others away or refusing help. It’s about building the confidence and skills to tackle challenges on your own terms.

Take financial self-reliance, for example—it’s about saving smartly, living within your means (yes, even when that new gadget is calling your name!), and planning for a secure, stress-free future. And emotional self-reliance? That’s learning to trust your own feelings and finding validation from within.

Why Is Self-Reliance Critical Today?

Modern life often conveniences us to a fault. We’re so used to relying on automated systems, delivery apps, and outsourcing everything that our self-sufficiency muscles can atrophy. But as the world becomes more unpredictable, being self-reliant isn’t just prudent—it’s essential.

You Gain Greater Confidence

When you realize you can solve problems on your own, it fosters a sense of inner security and self-worth. For me, one of my early lessons in self-reliance was learning basic car maintenance. Fixing a flat tire by myself seemed trivial at first, but it planted a seed of confidence that grew over time.

It Reduces Anxiety About the Future

Preparedness and self-sufficiency go hand-in-hand. Think about it—if you know how to grow your own food, cut unnecessary spending, or tackle basic repairs, you feel less anxious about life’s “what ifs.” A simple place to start is to check out my article on how to stop buying groceries and source food in new ways.

It Opens the Door to Authentic Freedom

The more you can meet your needs independently, the freer you become. Self-reliance allows you to make choices based on values rather than external pressures, paving the way for a life of purpose and authenticity. For me, this realization came when we paid off our home. It changes how I was looking at the job I went to that was adding stress. I realized I had options when we weren’t carrying extra burden.

How to Build Self-Reliance

Developing self-reliance doesn’t happen overnight, but consistent effort can transform your life. Here are a few practical steps to get started:

1. Cultivate Practical Skills

Learn skills like cooking, gardening, basic carpentry, and home repairs. Start small but stay curious. If you’re interested in this, check out 13 essential skills you should cultivate on your self-sufficiency journey.

2. Create a Financial Safety Net

Building savings is one of the cornerstones of self-reliance. Start with a basic emergency fund and graduate to long-term investments. Financial independence is empowering and vital for a life of self-sufficiency.

3. Build Emotional Resilience

Practice mindfulness, journal your thoughts, and tackle challenges head-on. In our home, we serve Jesus Christ and we prioritize placing our anxiety and hope there rather than in our own effort. While you may or may not be religious (all are welcome here), you have to have a place to put the feelings of life so they don’t become your master.

4. Surround Yourself with Like-Minded Individuals

Even as you champion independence, having a supportive community can motivate and inspire your self-reliance. Align with people who value growth and self-sufficiency—it’s a game changer.

And don’t forget, download my free Self-Sufficiency Essentials Checklist for actionable tips to help you along your self-reliance journey.

Final Thoughts

Building self-reliance is an incredible way to take charge of your life and uncover a deeper sense of independence and purpose! Imagine waking up each day feeling confident in your ability to handle whatever comes your way. It starts with small, intentional steps—practicing mindfulness, surrounding yourself with supportive people who uplift you, and equipping yourself with the tools you need to grow. Think of it like planting seeds for resilience and watching them bloom over time. The journey to self-sufficiency is deeply personal, and it’s not about rushing. Embrace every step, every stumble, and every victory along the way—your future self will thank you.

Frequently Asked Questions on Self-Reliance

1. Is self-reliance the same as self-sufficiency?

Not exactly. While both involve independence, self-reliance emphasizes trusting and depending on yourself mentally and emotionally. Self-sufficiency often refers to practical and material independence, such as growing your own food or living off the grid. Both concepts complement each other beautifully. You may enjoy Practical Self-Reliance blog as well.

2. Can you be overly self-reliant?

Yes, it’s possible to push self-reliance to the extreme and isolate yourself from receiving help or building connections with others. Healthy self-reliance involves balancing independence with fostering healthy, interdependent relationships.

3. What is a good first step toward self-reliance?

Start with identifying a single area—such as finances, emotional health, or practical skills—and commit to improving it. Small, consistent efforts add up over time.

4. How does self-reliance improve relationships?

When you become emotionally self-reliant, you stop seeking constant validation and approval in your relationships. This shift strengthens your partnerships, fostering mutual respect and balance.

5. Where can I find more resources to learn about self-reliance?

Looking for more? Don’t forget, my Self-Sufficiency Essentials Checklist is a great starting point for anyone eager to take the first step. You can also check out this beginner’s guide to self-sufficient living for inspiration.

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Self-reliance is a lifelong skill and mindset that empowers you to live a life defined by strength, independence, and purpose. Whether you’re just starting or are on an advanced self-sufficient path, know that trusting yourself might just be the greatest investment you can make.