When thinking about self reliance, I often consider the distinction of the "ideal" versus the "real". Many people are over enthusiastic to achieve an ideal solution that doesn't necessarily answer the real problem. It got me thinking-- how often do we get wrapped up in the "ideal" that we miss the pressing issue of answering to reality in a solution?

To take this a step further, let's consider self reliance. Unless, we find ourselves plopped down in the "frontier", we don't need to be instantly self reliant. Yes, self reliance does have an ideal, but most of us can ease into it-- in a realistic fashion. Self reliance isn't all or nothing, but rather something that needs to make sense and address reality. Self reliance is achieved over time and is a state of mind and condition that is never quite complete.

So how do you make sure your focus is on the real and not on the ideal? Here are some ideas to consider:

• What actual skills, abilities, and know how do you now possess? (You should know where you stand)
• What resources do you have? (Physical, financial, and mental)
• How can you use use what you already have, be it skills or resources-- right now? (Small successes build confidence and fuel bigger successes)
• What are the real problems, challenges, and issues will you truly face? (What will you really need to deal with the situation-- don't "overpack")
• What are the easiest and most practical (realistic) issues that you can resolve fast? (Be realistic!)
• How will your situation improve by addressing the quick and easy issues? (Think impact!)
• Have you considered scale? (For example, a small container garden is usually realistic for apartment dwellers seeking some food self reliance)
• Have you performed a cost benefit analysis? (Not just money, but also time and impact)
• Will meeting most criteria in a solution be good enough? (Think relationships-- compromise in choice of a mate, friends, and acquaintances usually means being realistic, not idealistic. Just be sure they share a desire for self reliance . . . )

 
Another thought to add here is that over time, you should come to know what you really need and what you just want-- think back to my "overpacking" reference. Too many people get the proverbial "bee in their bonnet" and waste time, money, and effort on the wrong things. Try not to be one of those people . . .

So when considering self reliance, or anything in your life for that matter, always focus on the realistic first, and then look to the idealistic second.

Thank you for visiting the Self Reliance Workshop and come back soon for more . . . follow me on Twitter at SelfRelianceWS, DvrcdDadFrglDad, and Surfcasting2Day.

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DDFD believes that self reliance and self sufficiency are the roads to individual freedom.  He is dedicated to living a quality life through frugality, personal growth and productivity, and defensive entrepreneurship.  He also enjoys cooking from scratch and fishing.