Day 5 Assignment

1. Make a list of the ways in which it’s important to you that your future community be self-sufficient or off-grid. Even if you’re not planning to found your own community, write up your ideal vision statement. What is most important to you in this venture? What would be your deal breakers? What are you willing to compromise on? Use these thoughts as a mission statement for your homestead and your own family operation.

2. Do some online research into eco-communities in your area or in the area you’re planning to homestead in and cross-check their vision with your own. Consider the level of self-sufficiency they are aiming for and decide if it meets your own goals and expectations, falls short, or overshoots your own goals.

3. Even if you’re not considering moving to set up your homestead, do some research on ecovillages around the world that might interest you just to get an idea of community differences. Take inspiration from the activities and initiatives that the communities you research have undertaken.

4. Consider if you have the interest or management skills necessary to found your own community. Remember, it can be financially and personally rewarding but will take a lot more time and effort than you think.

5. Research farm cooperatives in your area and get involved in some way, big or small—you’ll gain valuable knowledge, insider tips, and like-minded friends. Found one if there isn’t one and you’re interested in doing so.

6. After you cover the lessons on renewable energy later in the course, consider if a shared power co-op could work for you and your neighbors.

Happy homesteading,

Con Murphy
Your Total Independence Coach, Live and Invest Overseas