Small Space, Big Dreams: Self-Reliance in Apartments and Small Homes

Learn the countless ways to still travel on the journey towards being self-reliant with these tips for practicing self-sufficiency in small spaces!

Transcript

 It might seem challenging, but trust me, there are countless ways to embrace self-reliance. With the right mindset and some creative solutions, you can turn your small space into a haven of self-sufficiency.

Hello, and welcome to another episode of Prepping Positively. I'm your host, Annie, and today we're diving into a topic that many of us can relate to - self-reliance in apartments and small homes.

Let's start with the basics. Gardening is first on many people’s lists of priorities when it comes to being more self-reliant. However, most people think you need a large space to have a productive garden. While having the space outside is great, not everyone has that option.

One of the first steps toward self-reliance in a small space is embracing the power of vertical gardening. Limited square footage shouldn't deter you from cultivating your green dreams.

Consider wall-mounted planters, hanging baskets, or even a vertical hydroponic system. Not only does this add a touch of nature to your space, but it also provides you with fresh herbs and vegetables right at your fingertips.

We'll explore more about choosing the right plants and space-saving gardening techniques in upcoming episodes. For now, be sure to check out my post on growing vegetables indoors. The link is in the show notes.

Now, let's talk about meal planning. Living in a small space doesn't mean you can't enjoy home-cooked, nutritious meals.

Embrace a minimalist kitchen, by investing in multi-functional appliances, and plan your meals strategically to maximize the use of fresh produce. This not only reduces waste but also encourages a healthier lifestyle.

Trust me, you don’t need a big kitchen to eat healthy meals. I have a friend that lives in an RV and she makes fresh bread every morning, smoothies every afternoon, and many dinner meals that you would think she ordered from a restaurant. It’s possible.

Zero-waste living is another significant aspect of self-reliance. Consider investing in reusable containers, cloth bags, and glass jars. I made unpaper towels for my kitchen and I love them!

Explore composting options for your kitchen scraps, turning waste into nutrient-rich soil for your small garden. You can find countertop composters that are perfect for small amounts of weekly compost to add to your indoor gardens.

It's a small change that makes a big impact on the environment and your self-sufficiency journey. I'll guide you through the basics of composting and share tips on managing it in a confined space in an upcoming episode.

Emergency preparedness is crucial for everyone, regardless of your living space. In a small home, strategic planning is key. Create a compact but well-thought-out emergency kit with essentials like water, non-perishable food, first aid supplies, and important documents. Be prepared for the unexpected, and you'll feel a sense of empowerment and security.

I have an emergency kit freebie if you're interested, again you can find the link in the show notes.

Let's not forget about energy. Sustainable energy solutions are not reserved for large houses.

Invest in energy-efficient appliances, use LED bulbs, and explore portable solar panels or wind turbines suitable for small spaces. Every little bit helps, and you'll be reducing your environmental impact.

Storage solutions are vital in small spaces. Get creative by utilizing under-bed storage, investing in furniture with built-in storage options, and consider wall-mounted shelves.

Decluttering and organizing your space not only makes it more functional but also contributes to a clearer, calmer mindset. And trust me when I say a cleaner home is always more peaceful than a cluttered one.

Now, I understand that self-reliance extends beyond physical spaces. It's also about fostering a sense of community.

Connect with neighbors who share similar interests; maybe start a small gardening or cooking club. A supportive community enhances your journey towards self-reliance, even in the tightest spaces.

You can reach out to your local chamber of commerce or even a local library to find like minded people and groups in your community who share your same interests in becoming more self-reliant.

As we wrap up today's episode, I want to leave you with this thought: small space doesn't mean small dreams. Self-reliance is about embracing what you have and making the most of it.

With a bit of creativity, determination, and a community mindset, you can turn your small space into a hub of self-sufficiency and fulfillment. I hope these couple of tips help you get started on your journey towards self reliance, especially if you are doing it in a small space.

"Thank you for joining me today on Prepping Positively. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with your friends. Stay inspired, stay self-reliant, and until next time, this is Annie signing off. Happy dreaming and achieving!"