Best Skills to Learn for Real Self-Sufficiency?

[PrepperLinda65]

Been thinking a lot about what skills truly make someone self-sufficient, not just “emergency ready.” Beyond basic gardening and first aid, what are the hands-on abilities folks here feel are irreplaceable? Is it stuff like animal husbandry, water purification, or advanced food preservation? I can sew and patch wounds, but wonder if I’m missing something that would really matter in a long-term grid-down scenario. Suggestions or personal top-3 lists welcome!

 

[BlueSkyWanderer]

Wild plant identification and foraging is huge for long-term self-sufficiency, especially if stored food runs out. Knowing what’s edible, medicinal, or poisonous around you can make a difference. Basic tool repair and simple carpentry have saved me more times than I can count, too. Curious if anyone’s had success with low-tech water filtration methods in real conditions? That’s one skill I keep wanting to get better at.