We’re constantly looking for ways to foster true happiness. And although each person has their own definition of what true happiness is, many of us start our journeys to happiness by trying some of the same things. For example, the link between self-sufficiency and increased happiness convinced many of us to lead a more self-sufficient life. 

Experts say that regularly doing things that feed your body, mind, spirit, and environment profoundly impacts your quality of life. In turn, it helps establish inner peace and increase happiness.

So, if you’re looking to boost your happiness, becoming more independent and reliant on yourself instead of external factors may do the trick. Here are six ways to be more self-sufficient and increase your happiness at the same time.

Divorce Systems That Don’t Align With Your Values

Deciding to do something different is probably the easiest part of change. It’s the following through with it that many of us struggle with. And learning to be more self-sufficient is no different. To make new behaviors like self-sufficiency a permanent thing in your life, you must eliminate anything that keeps you tied to your old ways of doing. In this case, systems in your life that don’t align with self-sufficiency. 

A good example is reducing your reliance on the power grid. Self-sufficient individuals are energy independent. In other words, they produce enough energy on their own for what they need and are committed to the responsible use of it. By doing so, you contribute to the sustainability movement, reducing third-party energy use and consumption. So, if you’re ready to divorce this system, start by changing your energy use habits, exploring renewable resources, and moving forward with putting helpful tools in your home like solar panels. 

Once you’ve disconnected from systems that don’t align with your values, you can begin doing your own research and establishing how you plan to live a more self-sufficient life.

Identify Trusted Resources and Do Your Research

When you’re equipped with ample knowledge about what it takes to be self-sufficient, you can make a plan that can be maintained. But you must identify trusted sources to ensure you’re learning the most accurate and up-to-date information.

The internet shouldn’t be your only resource. Read books from credible authors, enlist the help of experts, and listen to first-hand experiences from others. 

Additionally, researching and coming up with solutions that suit your needs and lifestyle contribute to increased happiness. We all know the saying that “knowledge is power.” With extensive knowledge, you can be confident in yourself and trust the direction of your life. 

One of the first places your research will take you is in the direction of healing and medicine. And that brings us to our next section.

Practice Holistic Healing

Medicine and healthcare is a business. And unfortunately, making money takes precedence over caring for people. But healing methods that are natural and effective can decrease your dependence on modern medicine.

For example, holistic healing methods like meditation and other mindfulness exercises can be used for treating mental health challenges. Additionally, crystal healing strategies can restore emotional and spiritual fullness. While acupuncture and aromatherapy can open up self-healing abilities. 

Holistic healing practices can increase your happiness as well. You’re less likely to experience the harsh side effects of manufactured medication that alter your mood and physical being, mistreatment in medical facilities, and an inability to access the care you need. Instead, you’ll be in control of exactly how you nourish your mental, physical, and emotional well-being. 

As you become more self-sufficient in the way you care for yourself, you’ll also want to consider adjusting external factors in your life.

When You Can DIY, Do it

One of the easiest ways to become more self-sufficient is to look for DIY opportunities in your life. In other words, when you can do it yourself, do it.

For instance, you could start a garden to begin growing your own food and become less reliant on grocery stores. You could learn to sew and make your own clothing from ethically sourced materials. Use recyclable materials to build what you need in your home. You could even do DIY car repairs on your vehicle, like changing the oil, replacing engine coolant, or fixing a slow leak in a tire. It’s more cost-efficient as well as eco-friendly to keep a car on the road than to replace it with a new one.

Also, DIY projects like the above can help you relieve stress, boost your mood,  and work through bouts of anxiety and depression. DIY opportunities also teach you valuable life skills that empower you to make the best decisions for your personal and professional growth. All of these things contribute to more happiness and fulfillment. 

Doing things yourself also means becoming less reliant on technology.

Become Less Reliant on Technology

Most people use technology daily, for example, a cell phone, car, refrigerator, video game, or computer. We also use the internet for much of what we do, including socializing and maintaining relationships. Unfortunately, this means we’re incredibly reliant on technology. 

But to be more self-sufficient, it’s best to get back to the days of meeting someone in person, doing research without the internet, writing with a pen and piece of paper, or finding joy in doing the simplest things. There may be a day when technology isn’t available, and you want to ensure you’re able to function just fine. Also, this minimalist approach to life will shape your perspective on what it means to be truly happy.  

But honestly, it will be challenging to implement the above. So, surround yourself with people who live efficiently on their own and foster the level of happiness you hope to attain.

Surround Yourself with Other Self-Sufficient Individuals

One of the best ways to learn how to be more self-sufficient and stick with it is to be around people who are already doing it successfully.

You’ll be able to learn from the mistakes others have made, gather practical tips to implement into your day-to-day, and immerse yourself in a like-minded community. Also, you’ll have the opportunity to socialize and form relationships with beautiful people, which contributes significantly to increased happiness. 

Ultimately, when you surround yourself with other self-sufficient individuals, it can make your transition that much easier. And the strength of the relationships you form with those individuals positively influences your journey to true happiness. 

Conclusion

The connection between self-sufficiency and increased happiness continues to grow. Incorporate some of the above tips in your life if you want to transition into a life that is self-sufficient and genuinely filled with joy.

About the author:

Frankie Wallace is a freelance writer from the Pacific Northwest. She writes about a variety of topics, and spends most of her free time in her garden. 

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Submitted Exclusively to CrystalWind.ca by Frankie Wallace © 2021 crystalwind.ca