60+ important life skills everyone should learn-Part 1

We all know that life can get pretty complicated. As we grow, it becomes even more imperative that we learn how to function, and manage the tangled web of situations that we will most likely encounter. That’s why it’s so important that we do our very best to learn the life skills necessary to help us, not only get thru life, but also stay safe, succeed, and have a chance at the best life we possibly can.

Wikipedia defines life skills as the abilities for adaptive and positive behavior that enable humans to deal effectively with the demands and challenges of life. This concept is also termed as psycho-social competency.

Simply put, while you could potentially function without many of the life skills listed below, it will be an asset to your life to learn them and use them in your everyday life, whenever the needs arises.

Note: Because this post was getting ridiculously long, I have split it into 5 bite-size parts, to make it less of a drag to read 😉 You can find the links to the other posts at the bottom of this post.

60 life skills that everybody should learn

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Cooking

Eating is one of our basic needs as human beings. And while it’s a lot simpler to just grab some take out or put something in the microwave, those are, let’s say, less than healthy options. Not to mention, it will get old quickly.

Therefore, learning how to cook, even if it’s just the simplest of dishes will be the best you can do for your health, and your wallet.

Cleaning

Unless you are swimming in money, chances are you need to do your house cleaning yourself. And if that’s the case, learning to do so properly will save you tons of time, stress and headaches. After all, we all want to work smarter, not harder or longer, right?

Making a bed

One of the things I am fanatical about, is making my bed every morning. Not only does it feel good, but it also makes my bedroom look better, more organized, and put together. Not to mention, it also discourages me or my husband from just lounging the day away in bed. Instead, it encourages us to do what needs to be done, and accomplish something.

Sewing

You might not see the need for this, but sewing is definitely a life skill worth learning. You don’t have to become a master seamstress. But it is super important that you can sew a button back on a shirt or mend a tiny hole in your favorite socks.

And if you get slightly good at it, you can even learn how to make cute curtains, pillow covers, placemats or other cute things for around the house, to your taste, instead of getting store bought stuff.

Ironing

To be honest, I hate ironing. It’s one of those chores that I avoid like the plague if I can. And I’m sure I’m not alone in this.

However, avoiding it is simply not always possible. Sure, you could always buy clothes that do not need ironing. But since very few people actually pay that much attention to the fabric composition before they buy stuff, chances are you’ll end up with something that needs ironing.

Of course, learning how to iron properly is a must. Because the only thing worse than a wrinkled shirt, is a shirt that has ironed-in creases.

Making a grocery shopping list

It isn’t rocket science to create a grocery shopping list. However, if not done properly, you could end up adding stuff you don’t need, or forgetting much-needed staples.

By following the right steps, your grocery shopping trip will be a successful one, and you won’t waste any of your valuable time.

Meal planning

This. I cannot say it enough. You NEED a meal plan. And you need one that works for you, and your needs. Having a meal plan will help you save money, time and avoid wasting food. Not to mention, it is way healthier to eat a home cooked meal, then to get take out.

Unclogging a toilet

Have you ever had to call a plumber? Were you shocked by the bill afterwards? I know I have. I have only had to to call them for bigger issues, things I couldn’t fix myself. Unclogging the toilet is not one of them.

Unclogging a toilet is not only super easy. It requires minimum skills, and only one tool (most of the time). But you have to do it right, flush and pump at the right times, to avoid making a bigger mess.

Laundry & treating stains

Doing laundry is by far my favorite chore. Treating stains? Not so much. Luckily we don’t have a lot of stains on our clothes. But when we do, it’s important that we treat them properly.

There are a lot of ways to do this, including using some pantry staples, like baking soda, and vinegar. However, I have found that this product does the job right, and it’s pretty safe to use.

I first saw it being used on ballet costumes, which are not your every day clothes, and must be treated carefully. This stain remover did an amazing job, and did not damage the piece at all. After seeing the results, I bought some for home use, and have been impressed with how well it works.

Basic measurements

Even if you are not a carpenter, a seamstress or a baker, you need to know how to measure right. Not only will it save you from ruining a perfectly good boxed cake. It could also be helpful when buying paint to paint your home, or when buying clothes online, since most sites give you a size chart based on measurements.

Minor home repairs

Ideally, you could just hire out someone who can do these things for you. Unfortunately, it could get expensive fast, not to mention, it’s completely unnecessary. Things like applying a bit of spackle, replacing a faucet, or a doorknob or even putting up some shelves are easy enough to do, as long as you are careful and have the right tools.

Using basic tools

Speaking of tools, to be able to do the most basic and simple repairs or work around a house, you must have at least some knowledge of how to use certain tools. While you might not have any use for a tile cutter or a table saw, knowing how to use a drill, a hammer, screwdrivers, and even a level is key.

Using basic kitchen appliances

I’d say most basic appliances are pretty simple to use. Nevertheless, using them properly and safely is super important. Not only will it make the appliance last longer, and thus save you money. It will also mean that you won’t put yourself or your family at risk by causing electrical malfunctions, fires, etc.