- responsible for own spiritual and temporal well-being
- setting own course, solving own problems, and striving to become self-reliant
ELEMENTS OF SELF-RELIANCE
- Education
= study the scriptures and other good books, improve ability to read, write, and do basic mathematics; and obtain skills needed for suitable employment
- Health
= take care of minds and bodies
= obey the Word of Wisdom, eat nutritious food, exercise regularly, and get adequate sleep
= shun substances or practices that abuse bodies or minds and that could lead to addiction
= practice good sanitation and hygiene and obtain adequate medical and dental care
= strive to cultivate good relationships with family members and others
- Employment
= prepare for and carefully select a suitable occupation or self-employment that will provide for one's own and families' needs
= become skilled at jobs, be diligent and trustworthy, and give honest work for the pay and benefits received
- Home Storage
= build a three-month supply of food that is part of one's normal diet
= store drinking water in case the water supply becomes polluted or disrupted
= build a longer-term supply of food that will sustain life
- Finances
= pay tithes and offerings
= avoid unnecessary debt
= use a budget and live within a plan
= build a financial reserve by regularly saving a little
= teach family members principles of financial management
- Spiritual Strength
= exercise faith in Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ, obey God's commandments, pray daily, study the scriptures and teachings of the latter-day prophets, attend Church meetings, and serve in Church callings and assignments
CARE FOR OTHERS
- give personal compassionate service to those in need
- offerings should include members' talents
- includes faithful offerings of time, talents, compassion, materials, and financial means of faithful members given to the bishop to care for the poor and needy
