Do you need others to be self-sufficent?

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The idea of living solo, being self-sufficient, and living off the land is appealing to some. But do you need others around you to homestead? Short answer yes, and no. 

Do you need someone in close proximity to you, other than those living with you? Not exactly. Having good close neighbors can be extremely helpful when you are living miles from any close town. You can help keep eyes on each other’s place while one is gone for a bit. Because let’s be honest, you will at some point leave your home. 

You can also more easily help each other when needed. Like when the animals are out at 10 pm on the neighbor’s lawn. Or you have a predator problem that is challenging both of your property. Having good neighbors in close proximity, makes all these easier to homestead. 

However, if you have a bad neighbor, one who doesn’t like animals, doesn’t understand livestock, and is far from helpful, it can be a massive headache. When looking at properties, take the existing neighbors into account. 

You can have friends and neighbors at a distance that are still willing to help you out when needed. They just may not be able to arrive in 5 minutes when the cows are out. 

Even if you choose to live miles from any other human, at some point in your life you will need someone. Life will take you through a challenge and you need extra help on your property. You take a vacation, and someone must take care of everything while you’re gone. You have a challenge you’ve never had before and need advice. 

You need some kind of support system, even if you choose to live at a distance. Either from a distance, available by phone or social media, or physically. Even if you are self-sufficient, you still need people.