Learn New Skills

This is part of a 30-day series called the 30 Steps Program to Financial Independence.

In recent days, I’ve discussed growing a garden and performing vehicle maintenance—simple ways that help you save money and become more self-sufficient. You need to eat, and if you grow your own food, you no longer have to rely on external sources, especially when prices are high. Plus, you control what goes into your food, avoiding harmful chemicals.

I admit that I can’t do everything on my own, but I strive to learn as many new skills as possible. I value my time and wouldn’t spend hours on tasks that save just a few cents. Right now, as a motorcycle nomad, I’ve focused on skills that cater to my lifestyle, but you can create your own list.

Skills I’ve Learned Recently

– Making Pizza from Scratch: In Guatemala, pizza was pricey and not great, so I learned to make it at home, and my partner and I loved it.
– Changing Motorcycle Oil: With the right tools, this 20-minute job saves me $30 per oil change. Given our travel, we’ve done this twice in the past four months.
– Basic Website Skills (XML, HTML): Though my blog might make you laugh, I’ve made tweaks, freaked out when things broke, and tried again. Despite cheap virtual assistance, I like having control over my blog. I even know a bit of SQL from my old job.
– Sewing: My mom taught me a bit. I find it incredibly useful, like making a custom baby blanket for a friend or fixing a button instead of discarding a shirt. It’s a skill everyone should learn.

Skills I Want to Learn

– Making Jam: I love cooking and look forward to preserving summer fruits into jam. My grandma makes the best elderberry jam, and I want to learn from her.
– Making Cheese, Yoghurt, Bread: Creating these from prime ingredients rather than settling for lower-quality store versions would be satisfying.
– Making Clothes: Though I’m not imaginative with designs, making a simple summer dress seems achievable and unique.
– Home Building and Repairs: As I plan to buy a house, knowing how to work with contractors, avoid overcharging, and handle minor repairs would be invaluable.

I’m not trying to live completely independently. Tomorrow, I’ll discuss the importance of community and having a strong support network. As I mentioned, I’m not just looking to save pennies. Making yoghurt, for instance, is more about making it exactly how I like with healthy ingredients. Plus, you can start a batch whenever you want, even if the store is closed.

And you’ll never regret knowing how to fix a burst pipe or a faulty wire. Calling a professional for these tasks can be expensive. Learning these skills helps me avoid feeling helpless and vulnerable in my own home.