Self-reliance is a simple concept that encourages each of us to take responsibility for our own needs—physical, emotional, spiritual, social, and economic.

"We become self-reliant," explains Julie Beck, president of the Church's organization for women, "through obtaining sufficient knowledge, education, and literacy; by managing money and resources wisely, being spiritually strong, preparing for emergencies and eventualities; and by having physical health and social and emotional well-being."

Church leader Elder Robert D. Hales outlines ways we can become self-reliant:

◦Be ready for rainy-day emergencies
◦Avoid excessive debt; be content with what we have
◦Use the resources of the earth wisely; don´t be wasteful
◦Prepare for the future by making spending and savings plans
◦Keep a family or personal budget
◦Teach children wise spending habits and help them save for the future
◦Obtain an education or vocational training
◦Find gainful employment

As we become self-reliant, we will be prepared to face challenges with confidence and peace of mind