Realistic Off-Grid Living
When I hear the term "Off-Grid Living", I visualize a self-sufficient lifestyle that is as disconnected from conventional living as possible. Of course, even the remotest recluse is going to be somewhat dependent on parts of society in one way or the other. For instance, medical needs, prescriptions, fuel, and other basic living needs. Even the most resourceful of homesteaders rely on others to provide necessities that they are unable to produce themselves. This is just a reality. There are ways to live without some necessities for a while but it's not a long-term solution.
Included in "my" perception of off-grid living/homesteading, is being financially independent. This is a hard reality for the modern person to comprehend. We as a society are used to having what we want, when we want it, and if that means going into debt to get it, most are willing to commit at the drop of a hat. To me, having debt is not really living off the grid because you are still tied to the very animal that you are trying to get away from. It can however be accomplished but it takes a very focused, dedicated person(s) to build a debt-free lifestyle.
This doesn't mean that you don't make money or don't have to pay for things, it only means that you accomplish it without the use of credit or acquiring any debt in the process. It means that you may need to save up to purchase the things you need and that involves patience and determination.
With all that being said, what you see on Television or read in magazines is usually nowhere close to an accurate view of the real situation. It is the media showing you what they want you to see and believe. At the very least, they are manipulating the facts while promoting their agenda (whatever it may be) for financial gain. This is so common in "Reality Television" and Media in general. "Never believe anything you hear and only half of what you see". Even the most legitimate media production companies are in the business to make money and play your vulnerable and naive perception of reality. They are very good at it and are able to fool even the best of us.
Included in "my" perception of off-grid living/homesteading, is being financially independent. This is a hard reality for the modern person to comprehend. We as a society are used to having what we want, when we want it, and if that means going into debt to get it, most are willing to commit at the drop of a hat. To me, having debt is not really living off the grid because you are still tied to the very animal that you are trying to get away from. It can however be accomplished but it takes a very focused, dedicated person(s) to build a debt-free lifestyle.
This doesn't mean that you don't make money or don't have to pay for things, it only means that you accomplish it without the use of credit or acquiring any debt in the process. It means that you may need to save up to purchase the things you need and that involves patience and determination.
With all that being said, what you see on Television or read in magazines is usually nowhere close to an accurate view of the real situation. It is the media showing you what they want you to see and believe. At the very least, they are manipulating the facts while promoting their agenda (whatever it may be) for financial gain. This is so common in "Reality Television" and Media in general. "Never believe anything you hear and only half of what you see". Even the most legitimate media production companies are in the business to make money and play your vulnerable and naive perception of reality. They are very good at it and are able to fool even the best of us.
The video below is a rare and very interesting view of the true nature of "Off-grid Living" seen and lived from both sides of the lens. It's a must-watch video that sheds some light on the truth about the off-grid life versus what you see in the media. Take the time to watch the whole video and let us know what you think.
