Off Grid Cabin in the Forest - Eliminating debt and trimming loose ends

To build a log cabin in the woods - is it an escape from society and toxic people? This week, I finish the roof structure on the off-grid home, install the east window, trim the log ends and cook two hearty meals on the open campfire in front of the tiny house.
After witnessing a spectacular sunrise on Georgian Bay, I talk about toxic people and toxic debt, how they impact my life and how I deal with it.
The surrounding forest is alive with birds and animals preparing for winter in this Canadian wilderness, including the black bear, a regular visit to the log cabin. A light dusting of snow reminds me how close winter is now and that I need to finish the roof and install the wood-stove, a challenge when I'm working alone.
Next video includes installing the waterproofing on the roof of the cabin, installing the woodstove inside the tiny house, and chinking the log walls.
This part of Ontario Canada usually sees winter early, and it's just a matter of weeks now before the land is buried in snow. I need to build a woodshed and an outhouse before then, in addition to chinking and weatherproofing the cabin. Can I do it in time? I'm not sure, so I have to prioritize. The roof is going to be very unique and it's going to take some time to get the material ready to install.
CABIN LIFE T-SHIRTS available here - teespring.com/stores/my-self-...

[@debbiem2146]

This channel is therapy.

[@edwinsantoast7914]

i agree too

[@thepincushionman7063]

Yes! And entertaining without brainwashing like TV.

[@travishoyt1034]

I came here to say this. Totally needed this to start off my Monday.

[@alphagerudo]

The youtube channel title is sooo fitting

[@AllaroundNbackagain]

Yes. I think it reminds a lot of people what the world was like before everyone became plugged in and in debt up to their ears

[@jamierupert7563]

I haven't watched the whole video yet, I just started, but the first thing I noticed is that there is no goofyass music playing. Only the sounds of mother nature and I LOVE it. I like when I can actually hear the person in the video talking instead of having to try hearing what they are saying over that loud music most KZbinrs use. Thanks sooooo much!!!!

[@maureenshaw1751]

I began watching bc as a 59 year old woman nearing retirement from a postal service job, I am preparing myself to build my own home on land from our family farm left to me by my father. I'm so happy to have found your videos and find you to be such a decent and down to earth person. I have watched many, many videos of this type and you and your videos are not only very watchable bc of content and the way you present but include great snippets of wisdom which do hit home and have a great positive impact! Thank you!

[@MySelfReliance]

Thank you Maureen and all the best in your new home

[@B-MoreCity]

Good luck.

[@marcusr3700]

You provide something nobody else on You Tube does, and we all appreciate it. Thank you and please keep it up!

[@tomgodheart4557]

Wise words dude

[@heriberthuber54]

It does not sound bad at all! It is wise to limit the negative impact people have on your life.

[@jeffadams4590]

It's called the Law Of Attraction. Whatever thoughts you think of, good or bad, will bring those types of situations into your life and the toxic is all about who is around you. If you think positive, about owning your own home and sports car, it will come to you eventually of your motivated and hard working (it will help and encourage those around you). If you think negatively, bad things will come to you and toxic will spread to those around you as well. Law Of Attraction.

[@ewdavis4682]

Seriously my favorite channel on all of KZbin. Watching the progression of this beautiful cabin build and then motivational, inspiring and truth in the thoughts you share. Toxicity in life can really hurt you, thank you for your words brother! Keep the videos coming!

[@hazmatlarry72]

Keystone Wayne I feel same way.. I drive over the road....watching these help me to keep grounded with my true self reliance.

[@BoOmBaMan]

This channel definitely brought together like minded intellectuals or were all just OCD 🤣

[@Lionforaday]

Awesome job, very impressive work! My husband also built a lovely cabin, in the woods behind our home; we're a bit further south than you, near Kingston, Ontario. He installed a giant woodstove - it's really too large for the cabin, but he sourced everything super-cheap, and on the coldest days, we really don't mind! For any guys out there wondering, what do women look for in a man? - well, they look for this! A guy who's capable and confident; you can fix cars and build cabins. With things like shop class and automotive class being discontinued in many schools, handy guys are becoming exceedingly rare. But I'll take one over someone with a marketing degree, any day!

[@LarryTaint-qn8pd]

Yea Shawn, I know what you mean about toxic people. I have an old friend I've known since we were children and he's toxic in many forms. Alcohol, drugs and just plain laziness. He has crisis after crisis and is constantly begging for help. He burned his house down and didn't keep up his insurance is just one of the many disasters he has done to himself. I can't take his drama anymore. He won't listen to my advice when he asks for it. I am in the guilty stage right now because I've decided to jettison him from my life. He's not taking it real well and he's trying to manipulate me with suicidal threats. My advice for him was to see a shrink. He didn't like that either. But I digress. I know exactly how you feel about the need to remove the toxic people from your life. Btw, I'm loving your vids. You are the Jordan Peterson of the woodlands. Thank you and God bless.

[@bluegrassluke2989]

I think the fact that you consider other people's time, before spending it, as a debt to accrue is actually very selfless. You're considering the impact on other people. Your view on debt and toxicity isn't selfish at all. Helpful - thanks.

[@TAOutdoors]

Again another awesome video Shawn. When you first started to make this log cabin series I came to learn something about building a log cabin. Now it seems I'm almost more drawn in by your life advice and experiences!! Please keep up the My Self Reflections part, it really has an impact on many people.

[@MySelfReliance]

Thanks for your support and kind words Mike. I am overwhelmed by the connections I have made since I began this journey and I will continue to share my story with those who care to listen.

[@MickeyMouse-xs4hw]

Wow

[@MickeyMouse-xs4hw]

Hi mike

[@MickeyMouse-xs4hw]

Hi Shawn

[@SmartAssBaboon]

So true...

[@lilliecunningham7933]

Thank you for reminding me of a similar situation, when i ask someone to help me pack a few clothes, gave them $50.00 and on the 1st day of my move in, this person wrote me a letter stating, because they helped me that took away from what they were doing, and that I owe them $80.00 more for them to be satisfied. Even though they offered to help me. Like you, never again.

[@SurvivalLilly]

Really awesome!!

[@MySelfReliance]

Thank you Lilly

[@estherdossantos8513]

Awesome

[@winnersedgeinternational3642]

Smilled guy!

[@mudmaxx81]

Just as an added thought. The type of people who follow you and the nature of the comments they leave, really is testament to the calibre of person you are. I see so many comments on so many channels that are negative or deliberately and unecissarily controversial. I don't see any such comments at My Self Reliance, clearly you draw decent people to your content. It's a very warming thing to see.

[@MySelfReliance]

It truly amazes me and I am very grateful for the community here

[@ItsAllAboutGuitar]

"Your lack of planning doesn't make it my emergency." What a saying! I'm going to use that at work.

[@Roobah]

I have seen that saying as a cubicle poster. Google it for various similar versions.

[@bushcraftnorthof6012]

Ya, my work needs that. Customers can't seem to grasp that I'm on my 5th, 10th or even 20th "emergency" of the day. No help from management, either! LOL. Done there after November, thankfully. Life's too short to be stressed to a high level every day.

[@willduke69]

Lol. .i love it too. im a Truck Driver and im need to say this to Dispatch when they have a "hot load" and need me to run illegal. .Lol

[@outlawjjsmith]

Great advise Shawn, the World is full of toxic people, its very difficult to avoid them, however I strive to be positive but avoiding toxic financial debt has for me become a way of life in order to live and survive in a society that man kind has created, the trick in getting out and becoming like you Self Sufficient and Self Reliant. Thanks for the heart to heart, until next time!

[@DStrayCat69]

Wow! Great talk at the end... I'm an Empath and it took me a long time to learn that I can't fix the world... Moreover, I cannot give from an empty cup. I have to fill my cup for me first and give from the overflow... People generally do not give gifts - they make loans. I accept Gifts, but am very careful not to accept Loans... Great video and wonderful messages :-) Thanks

[@MsAcreage]

My dad built our home with hand tool as well… he died at age 94.1 1/2 years ago. Our family, mom and dad lived there for 65 years! My niece and husband own the home now. What you are doing is amazing. Thanks for sharing!

[@JF-fx2qv]

Many moons ago ran out of gas in the Adirondacks (Winter). Canadian happened by... We exchanged few words before during , after the transport to and fro the nearest gas station (recall only the help... no name). Take no ownership with the ppl of past. Take another set of eyes with dangerous work. You owe only if you choose to own it. Be up front. No one is completely self reliant, and not all help is a debt. You can only hurt yourself. Good luck and be safe.

[@phebefriddle9133]

I can still remember growing up, there were two sayings specifically that I feel have value. "Don't ask someone to do what you can do for yourself" and " owe no man but love".

[@GoldsGymLisa]

You nailed it when you spoke about the risks of being in debt to others and eliminating “Toxic” people from your life. I couldn’t agree more. Its how I protect myself in its many shapes and forms. Nice to hear it from someone other than myself:)

[@bcjoey9944]

Its comfoting to hear your reflection since i feel the same way. Im not sure if the world is getting worst or if my awareness is becoming clearer. None the less thanks for what you do and say.

[@TheKylecrx]

I couldn't agree more.

[@thistledewoutdoors3331]

Its both..... More & more every day I see bogus people repeat their ways & more & more I have started to separated myself from them.... No matter what - you are always to blame.. I say - CUT EM LOOSE....!!!!!!!

[@BoOmBaMan]

It was only a matter of time ppl realize how allergic they really are with how our world is today

[@dps1689]

Women raise the children, thus evil comes from women. Little fact, more than 70 percent of inmates in american prisons come from a single home. No father. Snowball effect. emotional thinking, living inside an emotional cilinder is the breeding ground of toxicity. My guess is the lack of violence in female culture, im talking about kill or be killed violence. In male culture this is a real risk, thus emotions in check is necessary. Men are less emotional, thus theres less potential for evil. It takes more out of the male to cross that line. We all have our breaking point, jealousy, hatred, regret, anger, hopelessness etc. Especially with prescription drugs, staying artificially sane. Its only a matter of time when women will turn against each other, its gonna suck, im sure. But im hopeful they will crawl back to men eventually. Traditional living will make its round again. Hell we might even see feminist terrorists. Those that actually go total batshit crazy, no more fake tears, instead real bullets and bombs. Dont have kids.

[@Knightcommander69]

Watching this on my 5th day of sobriety (alcohol). Great distraction considering it is currently Saturday night. Great vid.

[@erikhuijsmans570]

hang in there 1 day at a time.

[@MrMatt8478]

Everyday is a accomplishment. Just know if you do slip, it’s all it is is a slip. Not a excuse to give up on the ultimate goal. Good luck.

[@sunreallife5048]

good for you you.

[@michh4807]

im 15 days sober (alcohol) and I drank tonight.. I read this comment and now I feel determined to try again.

[@giggadygoogog]

Great work!

[@lindahodgkins4197]

Love the "Reflections" It is great to hear someone say out loud what needs to be said regarding "toxic people". It is so true about "time debt", too. Hopefully I can be in the group that encourages you to keeping going with your Cabin plan, love the videos....every single one. Cali is so adorable too, she is such a great companion for you.

[@40intrek]

Interesting take on debt not just being financial. One of the many reasons I prefer to build things by myself, plus I know exactly where every bent nail is. Thanks..

[@leeomurchu1213]

Possibly the nicest and most genuine person on youtube. Keep up the great work Shawn on both the cabin and your own personal journey. It's great to get a glimpse into your mindset and wish you all the best. Really enjoying the uploads.

[@DUKEisALIVE]

Nothing better than coming home to a new Log Cabin Video :D

[@isaachayward8760]

TwoFaced Films wish i could come home to a log cabin!

[@DUKEisALIVE]

Oh me too brother we'll get there some day :)

[@BlaBla-pf8mf]

coming home to a new Log Cabin? :D

[@straubdavid9]

Bet it has that "new cabin smell" ........ hope he can keep the bear out of it ~8^)

[@DUKEisALIVE]

To clear things up i came hope to a new log cabin video i dont have a log cabin :D Not yet ;)

[@azcoueshntr]

Shawn, you nailed it. Last week I packed a whitetail out of some serious mountains here in Arizona ALONE. I loved it. I found after years of searching for a hunting companion (after my dad died) that most guys want to drink or talk about women or are not ready or serious or in good enough shape -prepared......whatever. Then they pull you down into their vortex and /or they criticize you for being too hard core. You put it perfect. Yes, I might fall or die out there but I'll take that option and own it. Very, very good perspective.

[@dwhite1282]

azcoueshntr couldn’t agree more

[@jamierupert7563]

A little trick I learned from my mom years ago while camping. Before you put a coffee pot on an open fire, wipe dish soap all over the outside, no water. When it's time for cleanup, it wipes right off with water. It's the first thing I thought about when I saw you put the coffee pot on your fire. Try it and let me know what you think. This is the first of your videos I've watched and I have to admit, I'm commenting before I've finished watching but love it so far. That is literally my dream home. I always said I wanted a little one room cabin in the woods. The one room being that no visitors could stay overnight, lol. Everyone has to go home. I love my solitude. Subbed also.

[@joshbabb7470]

Thanks Shawn for the video. The cabin is looking great my friend. I totally agree with what you said I used to have a friend group that would always bring me down eventually I pourposely faded out of the group and got some new friends. Time debt is interesting. My dad and I would offten go help people in need on the weekends just out of love for those people and he has never asked anything in return all these years later , but most of the time it works out like you said. Thanks for the wonderful video. Have a great weekend. - Josh

[@bobhope5773]

mmm that's some good looking food!

[@Rollwithit699]

Love a good man who builds things.

[@ravent3016]

I try to reduce my level of dependence on others when I can. If it's framed as debt, I can see why owing favors can cause trouble in relationships when it's unbalanced. That can cause tension or even destroy relationships. So I admire your philosophy of self-reliance.

[@Laiynnalaiynna]

Another amazing video! Your thoughts on toxic people are so true. Over the years my BS tolerance has dropped a fair bit and I also had to take a step away from several people. I find that most issues that people have with each other is based on having high expectations, often people set higher expectations for others than for themselves. I try to do that the opposite way, the less expectations you have of people, the more they will surprise you in a positive way. As for helping you or a person out that has taken on a project of this size out, I'd love to (although I understand your reasoning completely :)!) but I would see it more as being an apprentice, because if I would help you, I would be the one learning tons of new things and putting them into practise. So in a way you would be the one helping ME out, right :)? Anyway, good luck over there with everything, the cabin is picture perfect, I love it!

[@carlal9984]

My husband would love to go out there to help as well. For him being surrounded by nature and learning from a pro would be the best time in his life!

[@PinetreeLine]

Another awesome video Shawn and a very positive reflection. I would agree that those who keep negative individuals in their daily lives never seem to break from negativity on the whole. Thanks again...the cabin is looking amazing!! Doug

[@AllaroundNbackagain]

Yes, you wouldn’t eat your beautifully grown food with hints of rot/decay in it, you pick those parts out and throw them away.

[@spidiemangmail]

Great video, cabin is coming along. You make a good point about time debt. You also made me sit and self reflect on myself wondering if I've been toxic to those around me. Hope you keep up with those sections of the video.

[@skyview7161]

Wow, your ending Shawn is exactly how I feel and felt for years! People have good intentions but I understand the disappointment that comes with accepting help. Great episode!

[@kellybalkom7149]

The cabin is looking awesome! Toxic family and friends no more: it's called detachment with love. I also realized I can't rescue people who don't want to be rescued. I'm in a much better place now :) Look forward to the next video, love what you are doing.

[@timgraham2537]

Beautiful environment where you are building the cabin. Not many people can say their closest neighbor is a bear. Enjoy watching your progress. By the way, I agree with your "debt" philosophy.

[@E.lectricityNorth]

As an old wise man once said: "A man working alone in the woods develops great wisdom through his hours of self reflection." I think this could be your proverb. Great video.

[@RCCrawlerWorkbench]

Great advice. I have begun to realize that i have got to remove the toxicity from my life recently. Its good to hear this from someone else as well. It may in fact seem harsh, but i feel it is the only way to be the best me I can be. Looking forward to more videos.

[@stephboeker7835]

Regarding your "My Reflections" ! One of my Pop's rules for me was to never loan or borrow money to or from friends or family. Another was not to go into business w/ friends or family and a third was don't pursue a business w/ a partner. As I grew older, I found these to be part of a general, basic or foundational principal. I found that they had to do w/ a deeper lesson involving obligation, trust, resentments, which your story reminded me of in other examples. Time, can be an obligation. trust can be questioned when one chooses to call in a favor that is rejected (for whatever reason). Resentment can occur both ways because of failed expectations. These can permanently hurt any relationship and would not want it to happen to a family member or friend, where a stranger has little bearing on the rest of your life. I've always understood my Pop's rules were meant to instill "Self Reliance" & "Independence". Beyond building strength in yourself, these examples can build strength in the fortunate others striving for progress. Unfortunately, it seems to me, there are fewer and fewer people these days, that have actually been taught the importance of independence :( The progress achieved by hard work and self reliance. The wonderfully joyous feelings procured by every accomplishment, small or large. It's a shame that I have seen the older generations that would not take help from others and , as a matter of pride, would manage on their own if humanly possible, only to see ignorant generations (or large % of) that are taught entitlements. As if it is the duty of others or humanity, as a whole, to provide for others. Caveat : I firmly believe those w/ the mindset of mandatory entitlements provided by others use the moral argument for justification. This seems a contradiction to me as I don't believe these entitle minded people actually believe in some supreme creator needed to dictate morality ! On the contrary, people that do believe in a creator and supreme moral authority understand that helping others is a gift, a generosity, a choice. They also understand the difference between help and providing "across the board" !! They understand how helping one whom can not help themselves (infant, disabled, the fallen on overwhelmingly tough times) will guide them into self progress and providing everything or luxuries will actually hurt and support decay of mind, body and spirit. A mentor of mine helped me learn woodworking by letting me use his shop and answering questions as my interests navigated through learning the skills involved. I felt grateful and obligated to repay him for his generosity, but, although, many times, I offered him money (payment), for his efforts and generosity, he never accepted ..... and asked me to share what I've learned, by him, to another (others), as payment ! :) I agree w/ Ben Franklin's idea to "make them uncomfortable in their poverty". As I know a busy man w/ a schedule of appointments can always fit you in but a man w/ nothing to do never has time for you. As well as the idea that a man who makes a fortune and looses it can remake his fortune where a man given a fortune will squander it rapidly and not have the where w/ all to recover it. Sorry bout' the long winded appreciation of your segment today, Sincerely, Steph - a fan from Louisiana

[@straubdavid9]

Ben Franklin was a brilliant man by anyone's standard. Thanks for the quote!

[@kameronholmes7151]

That was a good read.

[@MySelfReliance]

As Kameron said, good read. The topic is worth further debate. Of course, benevolence/selflessness is preferred and admirable, but how many of us are truly that? Something to strive for.

[@alexseguin5245]

Interesting points, but I'm not sure I follow you on the 'Supreme Creator' bit. As for the not pursuing business with friends and / or partners: Problem with that is that there's a limit to how much you can do by yourself. If you are working on large project, it might become unrealistic to expect to have the expertise to put all the component parts together. In those cases, I guess the best guarantee you can get that your partner(s) will stick with you to the end and act with integrity is to seek people that are animated by the same passion as you are.

[@cillaloves2fish688]

Maybe a lil long winded... but truthful!

[@darkmiller83]

Keep the video's coming. Good stuff!

[@CLHLC]

Thank you sir, for a great video!

[@gaellemaz6042]

This is the best life anyone can have. To be living in nature, avoiding all the stress of living in the city. I love watching your videos.

[@ChrisProuse]

The cabin's coming together beautifully Shawn - thanks for sharing! And well said :)

[@MySelfReliance]

Thanks Chris :-)

[@Laiynnalaiynna]

Ah, Chris is here as well. My 2 favourite KZbin channels together :)!!

[@Aussenluft]

Hahaha! Dito.

[@sageleeone]

Yes, these are my two favorites as well!

[@joelhill4107]

You are a very ambitious man! Even with a chainsaw and power tools would be a huge undertaking for one person. You have done all with hand tools!! Something to really be proud of. You are a very intelligent man, exactly right when talking about debt and toxicity. Hit it on the nail. I am really enjoying your videos, your insight. How you pulled it together after the loss of your company. That cabin is really coming together! One thing I would like to mention, you may want to consider hanging up your canvas covered canoe. Bears love to sharpen their claws on them! Work safe. Look forward to the next video.

[@AshtonClemens]

Your self reflection is paying off well, and your choice to share this experience helps so many more people. Thank you

[@barbaramcguire6010]

Shawn I'm catching up on all your videos I absolutely love your Channel. You are so inspirational and you are so right. It's always best to do it yourself, that way it builds your self-worth and knowing you don't owe anyone for anything you've done. I truly do admire your journey

[@cengle4394]

I look forward to your weekly videos way more than any prime time show on tv. truly great work and advice. keep up the amazing work.

[@anitarussum4590]

I agree. I just started watching and listening. He is a joy to listen to and learn from.

[@emungai]

Shawn, your videos get better and better. Keep up the good work. Thank you

[@kayhealer6150]

If someone helps someone else from the bottom of the heart, that what you share is that experience of love, there’s no debt left Gorgeous pictures of the landscape, and the incredible silence - only this one beautiful moment left. This is my second vid I’m watching from you and i love them very much. Be blessed.

[@mmdirtyworkz]

Hi Shawn, I started watching your videos when you started this project and really like to see the job getting done. To be honest, that's why I'm writing this, I always skipped the self reflection part thinking that it's some random youtube BS like I see everyday. I usually skip all "self reflections" as too many of those are just empty. This time I stayed until the end and I do not regret it, you make really good and strong points. To add, I most likely will never build a log cabin but I really enjoy watching it as I like good old manual labor and excellent tips. I am handy with the tools so you never know when you might need some of the info that you picked up on the internet. I wish you all the best in your present and future projects and I'll continue watching your videos. Greetings from Serbia!

[@diannefarrell7715]

Awesome video, cabin is looking great...kinda happy that the bear is still around..... p.s totally agree about your reflections on toxic people....

[@richardrich4320]

Shawn - everything that you have said is so true. All the aches and pains in life - that is what makes you stronger and wiser so you don't make the same mistake again. I like how you've gone to the basics and that is to rely on yourself and yourself only ! And that is simply life. But I want to say You can be proud of your cabin - its so well done and so much positive energy in it ....and I hope one day ...I can build one like yours for myself as well.

[@snj6669]

Great cooking too... simple but filling... the colurs of autumn in the woodland is stunning... WOW...amazing scenery.... its like a documentary programme!!! 😉😆

[@tektipzvideos7765]

Thanks for taking the time to say these things and posting.

[@Camstro80]

Beautiful on all levels. Awsome pictures and video. And everything you talked about is why we are drawn to you. Thank you

[@NagualeroArt]

Wise words

[@DanJen]

I'm really enjoying this series. Not only watching the cabin being built but the discussion as well. This one really spoke to me. I have my share of toxic people in my family and finally making the decision to get them out of my life has been a tough one. As for the rest, the part about debt and being self reliant, I've learned that expectations are what bring people down. If you expect others to pay you back, to help you out, whatever, and they don't that's, as you said, toxic. If you look at it as a bonus or a blessing, it's a good thing. Prepare for the worst and hope for the best. Thanks for the many hours of entertainment and wisdom. To me, you are what KZbin is all about, sharing our lives and stories.

[@johannabelanger4750]

1 second before you said "I know that doesn't look very good", I was thinking "That is so gorgeous!" Can't make something ugly with those beautiful materials.

[@MrStuBStu]

The Cabin is looking great. I began watching your videos because I find it very relaxing and almost therapeutic to watch something being made, especially out of wood. I also long for place to escape, as I'm sure many people here do. But now I equally watch them for the self reflections at the end. You offer great insights that young men like me can learn a great deal from. Today's episode especially struck a chord with me. Thank you, please keep it up.

[@zildjian4life433]

Another great video Shawn! I feel proud of you for doing this all alone, the mere accomplishment of it, even though I've never even met you. The way you go about it all, the thought process, the thoughts and feelings and advice are all just terrific. I find now that together with the sense of excitement when I see you've posted a new video, comes an equal sense of sadness and anxiety when the video ends! lol. It reminds me of being a kid again, I'm 48 now, and watching some weekly tv show and the longing when it ends and you actually had to WAIT and entire WEEK to see the next episode! Unthinkable to todays youth.I know you are busy and all, but if you could make each video about 2 hours long, that would be great!I joke of course...mostly, but anyway, the fact that you are doing this NOW and that I haven't discovered someone's posts from years ago makes it all very real and visceral and exciting. When you mentioned that yesterday was Canadian Thanksgiving, in a previous video, and I look up at my calendar and it is in fact Tuesday, Oct. 10th, it just becomes so tangible.Sorry to be long winded, anyway, fantastic as always and I simply CAN NOT WAIT for the next one! Be safe out there Shawn.

[@ElementL116]

Totally agree with your final words in this one Shawn.

[@Heisstrong]

You are so full of wisdom! So many life lessons to share with people that need to hear what you have to say! Awesome Shawn!

[@dstorm7752]

Being debt-free and not drinking/smoking is the way to live. Your remarks on psychological debt were true. You should also aim to be a millionaire stock investor because of the portable nature of owning tiny slices of many businesses. As to the cabin, a better way is to have a 3' stone "foundation" (not courses of logs under the snowline). But the thing about small cabins is you can build one, enjoy it, take it down, and build a better one.

[@BackcountrywithShaughn]

The drone views of the fall colors are so beautiful, a great addition imo. And I cannot express enough with words how much respect I have gained for you while watching and listening to how you immerse yourself in that amazing boreal ecosystem. I hope to get the opportunity to meet you and a few others who love the outdoors and who are so in tune with the subtleties of nature. The explanations of your construction methods are really cool to help understand the process. Spectacular sunset videos from up on the Canadian shield. Thanks for sharing another cool video, the cabin looks awesome~

[@christaunnasch932]

Christa Unnasch, You're a very wise Man Shawn. I had to go it alone as well. I don't owe anyone anything this way. You help a lot of people with your entertaining videos, thanks for that!

[@hutchinsonsadventures4678]

I loved your Reflections in this vid... Its what i have lived by in such a long time.

[@PRACTICALBUSHCRAFTSURVIVAL]

Once again a great video, and it seems we have a lot in common about friends and family . today in life if you want something done or wish to go fishing its a solo for me and its been like this for many years... keep up the great work and Reflections.

[@tamaram4338]

Another great video. Thank you for the kind and motivational words last week. Most of my career has been working with at risk youth. One of the big barriers to their success and our success with them is toxic environments. It tends to matter very little the progress made during the programs I have worked with, when at the end they go right back to the same toxic "supports" or home life. This is one exercise I used to use to drive the point home. I would stand on a chair and have a participant stand on the ground. I would then ask the group if I tried to lift him up to my level while he tries to pull me down to his, who is going to win. It was always obvious I was going to lose. Especially if there were multiple people pulling me down. This demo would then lead to a discussion about the challenges of trying to change your situation and making hard choices about who we keep in our lives. Are they really helping us, or are they dragging us down? Sometimes we have to put ourselves first. Even if it feels like you owe the people you grew up around or it seems mean. You have to focus on yourself. Maybe ones you are established there are ways to give back but you are not going to change your life dragging toxic people around. I also used to always say "I won't work harder for you than you are willing to work for yourself. Because this won't work unless you want it. I can't want it for you."

[@vhabcan176]

Your talk about 'debts' is spot on. TYVM.

[@jeffro4kag206]

This is just fantastic. I love being self reliant and thinking outside the box. I picture myself as I watch you, and know the effort it takes. You have to love what you do. Although I'm an auto body man for 35 years I took a break from it a few years back to restore an old home in upstate N.Y. I camped out at the homes while I worked. Everyday was an awesome experience as I transformed the home. Floors, windows, ceilings, sanding, painting, etc The passion of doing this was so rewarding. The person I was working for was very toxic, however I just kept plugging away. We had a verbal agreement of 25 an hour. When after finishing the job in 160 hrs. he informed me that the homeowner could not pay, so he could only pay me 15 an hr. I put my heart and soul into the home and although I was disappointed with the money aspect I realized how much I love building and working on homes. When people ask me what I do, I tell them I'm an expert body man and also a jack of all trades. Thanks for the videos and insights. The cabin is awesome and you are such a good man. Thank you

[@catyear75]

I've just found your channel and I subscribed immediately! Now I have to watch all your other episodes....!

[@jamierupert7563]

catyear75 Same here.

[@martinh3453]

Can you at the end run a total cost analysis, from the nails to the delivered wood and everything? I am curious. Thanks.

[@MySelfReliance]

Martin H Yes, I'm tracking it

[@back2basics262]

Very well said Sir! Thank you again for taking the time to share your experience building the cabin, as well as your life experiences.

[@bjplatz9557]

I appreciate the clarity about debts with other people. That has been a source of resentment for me but I hadn't put it together as succinctly as you just did. Thank you very much.

[@ritathom4693]

Your cooking is nice--I want to sit down and join you--it ( the food ) looks so good.--Barton

[@angelaforaker1574]

Shawn, you make a person stop & think what life is all about, i like your comments on toxic people but not just people , on any thing that touches your life it's how you handle it . You have everything together now and i wish i could get my life settle . So proud of you , thank you for all your philosophy i needed that. Your wife is so lucky to have you, God bless you.

[@sanpascual2012]

Eff yeah, such wisdom, such an old soul! Thank you, you are a gift to the world, Shawn.

[@ArmchairOutdoorsman]

Loving this series Shawn! You truly are inspiring on many levels.

[@richardlumpkin4607]

That must have been one big deer judging by the size of the tenderloin. Cabin looks great. You eat so much better than Joe. Nine hundred comments and the video’s up for less than a day. Wow! Thanks for the therapy!

[@MySelfReliance]

Richard Lumpkin lol, that's exactly what I thought when I was editing the video. That's an external blackstrap or partial ham for sure - but it was tender enough!

[@jamierupert7563]

Richard Lumpkin All that food looked so good. Somehow it always tastes better on an open fire.

[@LarryTaint-qn8pd]

Jamie Rupert That is a fact.

[@rolfpiotrowski4325]

Its a real torture,the slobber is always running,when I see it! ;-) And I really wished to know,what the funny looking breakfast-cheese is. I never saw it here in Germany. :-(

[@backcountrypreps6171]

I just found your channel and subbed. Much respect building this cabin without power tools

[@artistaloca4]

Your reminders are spot on !! Appreciated ❤️

[@ravenspies7640]

Awesome!!! Another day in Paradise! Thanks for bringing us along!!!

[@HeartlandMakesAndOutdoors]

Excellent video my friend. I have been watching your videos for a while now, I have never commented. I think we have some things in common. Part of what has brought me to watching your channel is the cabin building series you are doing. My wife and I recently bought a few acres about 3 hours away from my hoe town, in the (hills of SE Oklahoma,) We actually call them mountains, But I have seen mountains. heheheh. We, will be starting our cabin next year, with winter coming on, I think we will work on a shed to store tools etc, and camp on it until we can actually start on the cabin, so ground work etc. But I do appreciate you sharing the debt stories. Oddly enough, I have already had a few people say they will hep etc, and I know I live my life better, not asking, and not expecting and partly just like you said, I am always short on time, part of why my channel is small, I am spread thin on time and like you pointed out, I don't want to owe time I don't know that I can ever repay. Interesting to see some other people with very simular ideas, between debt and toxins. I agree 100% with both. I live that exactly same way. Have a blessed week my friend, keep doing what you do and keep up the awesome works, and mindset.

[@thjeokthjeok443]

Can you imagine as a divorced single women with kids , i bought my own land in Australia , and built my own place , sometimes a man would come and offer help , but they always have expectations so i set them straight before they help - and in the end , i would rather work alone then have those confrontations !

[@tracyk3567]

Don't listen to ignorant, uneducated persons like "LF". You are a strong, self-reliant person who has more than likely raised children to be the same. That is honorable, and the most anyone can hope for. Shawn should interview you. This guy gets to leave the kids and go do his thing. I am betting you never got to just run out and leave your kids to build your home. I am betting you had to care for them while you built your home together. And you probably taught them way more than this person criticizing you. You are an inspiration to us and your children! Keep on being you!

[@MrJasonchapple]

I'm not going to mention a certain L F; My question is; I'm also an Aussie; living in the Wide Bay Area of QLD; And I am curious about the rules and regulation about building on your own land. Such as; can you harvest timber, stone clay ETC; from your land to build with? Do you need to be certified to build your own structures? What about accessing water or disposing of sewerage?

[@MK-hs9ck]

@@tracyk3567 It's not ignorant. Children should have a male influence. That's the way we've evolved.

[@Slic_Nuts]

Fyodor Dostoyevsky i agree children will benefit from a strong & reasonable male influence. As a child I was raised without a formidable father figure & completely lacking a male role model for a portion of my youth. I know first hand I would have benefited greatly had I been influenced by said father figure. If you’ll excuse my bias, I believe my mother did her very best considering the situation at hand. Edit : spelling

[@B-MoreCity]

Same. Better to hold your own nuts so people will want nothing in return from you.

[@hugopacheco3231]

That’s every men’s dream to be off grid and close to nature. Love this video

[@mkllove]

Looking Good ! I always look forward to your next post.

[@alfonsodiaz5976]

No disrespect my friend and I hear what you are saying but the way I see it, the moment I give someone something whether it is kindness, money, or time when my gift is accepted I have been repaid twice over and will never expect anything further. The greatest gratification a human being can feel is to help others and I would argue that those who offered to help you were deprived of the greatest gift of all, the gift of giving. I love what you are doing and am humbled by your courage and your resilience. I had never watched your videos but will do so from now on. there is peace and love in your words and your goodness is bequeath to us all and I can only say thank you.

[@tracyk3567]

Alfonso Diaz -really? I must have the wrong people in my life, 'cause it seems I'm always giving and giving and giving and if I should need a little favor nobody is ever available. 😏

[@RafaelW8]

@@tracyk3567 because you're giving but expecting something in return. What he meant is giving for the sake of giving and not expecting anything, that's what makes you feel fulfilled. At least it does me.

[@tracyk3567]

Rafael White ~ yeah, but some people are kinds of parasitic. They latch on and take and take and take 'til the life is sucked right outta you.

[@backcountrypreps6171]

You are so right when talking about debts

[@conniewallace2373]

Back Country Preps deed

[@juliehenderson1672]

Perspective is everything. You have expressed it wonderfully. Thank you. KISS. Keep it simple and serene. Thank you.

[@aprilasbahr]

And now I'm starving. I have been watching your videos and was never disappointed. Don't stop.

[@PRACTICALBUSHCRAFTSURVIVAL]

Plus i can't understand the dislikes on this fantastic contents of this video ???

[@MySelfReliance]

You can't please everyone :-)

[@straubdavid9]

Some people are triggered by any title espousing "self-reliance".

[@jgren4048]

There are those who build, And Those who use or tear down. The title says off grid , perhaps this didn't have enough trying to replicate the grid for them Great Job Shawn!

[@kingdavid7571]

PRACTICAL B&S :) A 20 to 1 ratio of likes to dislikes is pretty good. This one is almost 70 to 1. Haters gonna hate.

[@alphagerudo]

Those who don't understand the concept of living without the newest iphone.

[@gmurph]

100% spot on with that toxicity and debt reflection 👌my favorite upload yet 🙌

[@johnnymelendez4836]

Amazingly fullfilling videos visually and mentally. So true! Thanks Shawn.

[@daverenshomestead636]

Thank you for a wonderful video and your exactly right about removing toxic people from your life. I did that years ago and I’m so thankful I did

[@jeromegraves2826]

If the bear is staying.. I think he/she deserves a name? :D

[@MySelfReliance]

I think it's a she. What's her name?

[@andrewbeaudry4399]

Food

[@MrBirgerB]

Putin

[@jeromegraves2826]

Ol' Majesty (the bear...)

[@cillaloves2fish688]

Betty...

[@gman3725]

I respect your opinion about debt, but I respectfully don’t completely agree with it. There are some people in this world who do things for others selflessly, and without expectation of repayment. That said, I understand why you’re reluctant to ask for help. Just keep in mind that there are people out there who don’t expect to be repaid, and those are the type of people who you’re best to surround yourself with. I admire your courage and skill doing what you’re doing and keep an eye on that bear 😀

[@bobvogel5398]

Glen, I agree. My wife and I built our house, and had few volunteers who came to help (which we didn't mind, it was our project, not theirs.) But there was one friend from work who would stop in for an evening every couple weeks (and it always seemed like just when we needed help.) who just liked to come help out, because he liked doing the stuff. I'm not near Shawn, so couldn't volunteer to help. But if I was, I'd love to spend a weekend with him helping out, just for the chance to see the place 'in real life', and help contribute. But also, from Shawn's perspective, if you let one person come, you end up having to try to decide how to choose people (and some of them, once they show up you WILL wish you hadn't let come.) So 'doing it alone' is harder physically, but easier mentally.

[@seanflanagan5674]

Glen Mullins, I agree as well. However, I would like to offer yet another consideration, and I wish I could do so in a private conversation with Shawn: often when people offer to help it's with the hope of being compensated with experience and/or education. And sometimes it's because they have their hearts set on a reward in the afterlife.

[@rebelreclaimedwoodco8546]

Yes

[@graceygrumble]

I agree G Man. Helping people is its own reward. There are more than a few people who would love to help this bloke out and consider that they were in debt to him, considering the education they'd be getting. But, I understand where he's coming from.

[@LarryTaint-qn8pd]

graceygrumble Often well intentioned people can be more trouble than they're worth. How do you tell someone to leave that has offered to help? Sometimes it's better to just do it yourself.

[@kenthomas856]

Can't stop watching.

[@ericmcvea2794]

Very good insight about toxic people. My father told me when I was young that you become the people you hang with. If you hang with losers you will become a loser and if you hang with successful people you will become successful. Well, he was right and I am thankful that I listened to him. I have a small group of old friends and we have achieved a fair amount of success in our lives. But about 2 years ago I had to cut 3 friends out of my life, that I had become involved with within the past 10 years, because it was always some kind of never ending drama ! You explained it quite well about the emotional debt I had invested in them because I was always helping them in one way or another and they seem to always be tied up when I needed something in return. I found that the plus side of that move freed me up time wise and emotionally to where positive things started happening in my life which in turn helped the people that really meant more to me. So you really hit the nail on the head, so to speak ! LOL Thank you for sharing and I look forward to more videos ! Eric in Mobile Alabama