CHARACTERS OF SELF RELIANCE

Self-sufficient people are neither cold nor detached. They trust themselves, aren't afraid
of solitude, and don't depend on anyone to make their own decisions. This is a valuable
trait anyone can develop.

Self-sufficient people are a mixture of healthy self-esteem and independence. They make

their own decisions and don’t depend on others. In fact, they aren’t afraid of loneliness.

What most defines these people, beyond the aforementioned characteristics, is their

freedom of thought.

It’s curious how the first thing that comes to mind when you think of “self-sufficiency”

is the image of someone who doesn’t need anyone and  can survive on their own.

However, this term actually encompasses many psychological constructs. This article

will delve deeper into this concept so you can develop it further, set aside stereotypes,

and integrate it into your personal growth repertoire.

After all, this concept isn’t synonymous with detachment. It isn’t about becoming a

hermit who doesn’t need anything or anyone. In fact, self-sufficiency is  the art of

believing in yourself.

Self-reliance means different things to different people. The character traits most readily

associated with self-reliance are, in no order:

 Reliability: You can be depended on to be consistent in everything you do.

 Perseverance: You keep going, weathering the storm through thick and thin.

 Dependability: You can be trusted to do what you say you’re going to do.
 Hardworking: You believe in the value of hard work and dedication.
 Self-discipline: You control your behaviours in order to improve your actions.

Being self-reliant allows you to survive the harshest of winters and the most brutal of
summers. It gives you a sense of agency over yourself and your decisions. And while it isn’t
an excuse to never seek help from others, it means you are no longer at the whim and mercy
of those who may have other plans for you.
In practice, self-reliance can look like any number of things. Being able to depend on
yourself to meet your basic needs (and the needs of your spouse, children, and other family
members, if this falls on you) is one of the greatest feelings in the world, and doing so
ethically is even more essential.

Reference

‘Valeria Sabater.
Last update: 15 November, 2021
www.exploringyourmind.com

-Benjamin Spall
www.benjaminspall.com
2023