Being independent isn’t just about paying your own bills or living alone — it’s about having the skills and mindset to handle the tough stuff in life on your own, while still being part of a community.
Truly independent people have cultivated a range of abilities and attitudes that allow them to get through life without too much bother. Here are some of the things they can do for themselves easily and without any drama.
1. They can cook a decent meal from scratch.
They don’t rely on takeaways or ready meals for every dinner. They’ve taken the time to learn some basic cooking skills, so they can whip up a nutritious meal from whatever’s in the fridge. They can do more than just follow recipes — they understand flavours, can improvise with ingredients, and eat fresh, healthy meals that aren’t centred on ultra-processed foods.
2. They know how to manage their money.
This doesn’t mean they’re wealthy, but rather that they understand how to budget, save, and make informed decisions about their money. They’ve taken the time to educate themselves about personal finance, whether through books, courses, or simply trial and error. This knowledge allows them to plan for the future, handle unexpected expenses, and avoid the stress that comes with financial instability.
3. They can entertain themselves.
Independent people don’t need constant external stimulation or company to avoid boredom. They’ve got plenty of interests and hobbies that they can enjoy solo, whether it’s reading, painting, gardening, or learning a new skill online. This ability to self-entertain doesn’t mean they’re antisocial, but it allows them to enjoy their own company and find fulfilment in solo activities.
4. They know how to calm themselves down.
Source: Unsplash They’ve developed strategies to manage their emotions and stress levels without always needing to vent to people or look for external validation. This might involve practising mindfulness, going for a run, or having a personal mantra to repeat in tough times. They understand that while it’s good to have support, ultimately, they’re responsible for their own life.
5. They can make decisions without constant input from other people.
They trust their own judgment and can make decisions, big and small, without needing to consult everyone they know. This doesn’t mean they never ask for advice, but they don’t let indecision paralyse them or rely on other people to make choices for them. They’ve learned to weigh pros and cons, consider potential outcomes, and trust their instincts.
6. They know how to learn new skills.
The most self-sufficient people understand that learning is a lifelong process. They’re not intimidated by new challenges or technologies; instead, they’ve developed the skill of learning itself. Whether it’s figuring out how to change a tyre, learning a new language, or mastering a digital tool for work, they know how to break down more complicated tasks, find resources, and teach themselves.
7. They can travel alone comfortably.
Source: Unsplash They’re not afraid to explore the world on their own terms. They’re comfortable navigating new cities, dealing with travel hiccups, and enjoying experiences without needing someone by their side. This doesn’t mean they never enjoy travelling with other people, but they don’t let the lack of a travel buddy hold them back from seeing the world. Solo travel often leads to personal growth, increased self-reliance, and the ability to connect with new people and cultures more deeply.
8. They know how to set and enforce boundaries.
Source: Unsplash They can say no to requests that don’t align with their values or priorities, without feeling guilty. This ability to set boundaries extends to all areas of life, from work to personal relationships. They understand that healthy boundaries are important for maintaining their independence and well-being, and they’re willing to have tough conversations to ensure their boundaries are respected.
9. They can fix basic household issues.
They’ve taken the time to learn some basic DIY skills, allowing them to handle minor household repairs and maintenance. This doesn’t mean they tackle every problem themselves — they know when to call in professionals for the big stuff. However, their ability to handle small repairs saves money and gives them a sense of control over their living environment.
10. They know how to advocate for themselves.
Whether it’s negotiating a salary, addressing a mistake on a bill, or standing up to unfair treatment, they can articulate their needs and rights effectively. This doesn’t mean they’re confrontational; rather, they’ve learned to communicate assertively and respectfully. They understand that no one else will champion their cause as effectively as they can themselves, and they’re willing to step out of their comfort zone to ensure they’re treated fairly.
11. They can handle criticism constructively.
They’ve developed the emotional resilience to listen to critiques without taking them personally, and the wisdom to discern constructive feedback from baseless negativity. When faced with valid criticism, they see it as an opportunity for growth rather than an attack on their worth.
12. They know how to motivate themselves.
Source: Unsplash They don’t rely on other people to push them towards their goals or to get tasks done. Instead, they’ve developed strategies to stay motivated, even when facing tedious or challenging tasks. This might involve setting personal rewards, breaking large goals into smaller, manageable steps, or regularly reminding themselves of their ‘why’.
13. They can form and express their own opinions.
The most self-sufficient people can think critically and form their own views on various topics. They don’t simply parrot other people’s opinions or go along with the crowd. Instead, they take the time to research, reflect, and come to their own conclusions. Plus, they’re comfortable expressing these opinions, even if they differ from those around them.
14. They know how to take care of their health.
They’ve educated themselves on basic nutrition, exercise, and preventive care. This doesn’t mean they never get sick or never need medical professionals, but they take proactive steps to maintain their physical and mental well-being. They’re attuned to their body’s needs and don’t ignore warning signs. Whether it’s preparing nutritious meals, maintaining a regular exercise routine, or practising stress-management techniques, they prioritise their health without needing constant reminders or guidance from anyone else.
