A punctured bicycle tyre, a leaking tap or a loose door handle. In the past, many people sorted out such small problems themselves. Today we quickly ring a tradesman or replace the entire appliance. Yet a bit of handiness is a form of self-reliance.
This week you’ll learn to carry out one simple repair. Not because the world is ending tomorrow, but because you become less dependent on others.
What are you going to do this week?
Choose one small repair in or around your home that you’ve been putting off for a while. Look up how to do it and do it yourself.
Start simple. The aim isn’t to become a plumber or electrician, but to build your self-confidence.
How to approach it
1. Choose a manageable task
Think of, for example:
- repair a bicycle tyre;
- tighten a door handle;
- adjust a cupboard door again;
- tighten a leaking trap;
- replace a tap descaler;
- hang a smoke detector;
- replace a bulb or fuse.
Start small. Success motivates more than a failed big job.
2. Find a reliable explanation
Check a manual or look for a clear instructional video. Take the time to first understand what you’re going to do.
Work calmly and step by step.
3. Gather the right tools
For most small repairs you don’t need much:
- screwdrivers;
- pliers;
- a tape measure;
- a Stanley knife;
- an adjustable spanner;
- a torch.
Don’t have something? See if you can borrow it before you buy it.
4. Work safely
Always switch off the power when working on electrical components. Turn off the water supply if necessary before starting on plumbing.
Not sure if the repair is safe? Then stop and call in a tradesman.
5. Put your tools away straight away
Make it a habit to put everything back in its proper place afterwards.
That way you won’t have to search again for the next job.
6. Write down what you’ve learnt
Note down briefly:
- what you’ve repaired;
- which tools you used;
- what was difficult;
- what you’d do faster next time.
Over time you’ll gradually build up your own manual.
What do you need?
- basic tools;
- a smartphone or computer to consult a manual;
- a small defect that’s been waiting for a while.
Common mistakes
- Starting with a job that’s too difficult straight away.
- Working without the right tools.
- Skipping steps out of haste.
- Paying no attention to safety.
- Thinking you’re “not handy enough”.
Why this really matters
During a crisis, professional help isn’t always immediately available. But even in everyday life you save time, money and frustration when you can solve small problems yourself.
Self-reliance isn’t just about food supplies or emergency packs. It starts with simple skills that make you less dependent on others. Every repair you learn to do yourself increases your confidence to tackle the next challenge too.
ESSENCE
- 🔧 Carry out one small repair yourself this week.
- 🛠️ Get to know your basic tools and use them safely.
- 💪 Every practical skill makes you a bit more self-reliant.
Task for this week: Choose one small job today that you’ve been putting off for weeks and finish it. The satisfaction of repairing something yourself is often greater than the repair itself.
🪖 Self-sufficient in 52 weeks
Every week a small, achievable tip that you can apply straight away. Not expensive survival gadgets or unachievable scenarios, but practical steps with which you better prepare your family for power cuts, chaos or unexpected crises.
Follow the series and discover how in one year you grow from zero to completely prepared. 52 weeks, 52 tips – and you’ll be stronger than 90% of the people around you.
Discover here all the tips!
