What Is Generalism?

What Is Generalism? From Ancestral Skills to Modern Solutions - Forgotten Skillz

Generalism: Skills for a Sustainable, Fulfilling Life

In a world that often celebrates the specialist, the art of generalism shines as a beacon of versatility and resilience. Imagine a life where you are not confined to a single role or skill, but instead, you possess a diverse array of abilities that empower you to tackle any challenge, adapt to any situation, and continually learn and grow. This is the life of a generalist—a jack of all trades—who thrives on variety, embraces change, and navigates the complexities of modern life with confidence and creativity.


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Verde Sauce: A Medieval Recipe with a Modern Twist

Medieval Recipe fr Green Sauce

Have you ever wondered what to do with that loaf of stale bread?

In medieval times, life was dictated by the seasons and the availability of resources. Nothing went to waste, and every ingredient had a purpose. The culinary practices of the period reflected a deep understanding of flavor, preservation, and sustainability. Stale bread, for instance, was a staple ingredient used to thicken sauces, soups, and stews, ensuring that even the hardest crusts found new life in the kitchen.


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Ancient Food Storage Hacks

Ancient Food Storage Hacks for Modern Power Outages - Forgotten Skillz Long Island

In today’s fast-paced world, we often rely on modern technology for convenience, safety, and comfort. Refrigerators, freezers, and electric dehydrators are everyday tools that make food preservation effortless and reliable. However, this dependence on technology can leave us vulnerable when it fails.


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The Spectrum of Suck: Survival Mindset

Spectrum of Suck: Mastering the Survival Mindset

In any survival situation, having the right survival mindset can make all the difference. When faced with the unexpected, whether from natural disasters or unforeseen circumstances, the ability to assess and triage your needs effectively is crucial. This concept, referred to by Mike Evans referred to as the “Spectrum of Suck,” emphasizes the need to balance both the good and the bad, allowing us to find inspiration and hope even while dealing with adversity.


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Prioritizing for Survival: The Rule of 3s

Survival Rule of 3s Forgotten Skillz

Survival situations can arise unexpectedly, whether due to natural disasters, man-made crises, or unexpected adventures gone awry. Knowing how to prioritize your needs can be the difference between life and death. The Rule of 3s, sometimes called the “333 Rule of Survival”, is a simple yet powerful guideline that helps you focus on the most critical aspects of survival in any situation:


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Meet the Froe!

Forgotten Skillz Using a Froe to Split Wood

In recent years, there has been a resurgence in the pursuit of self-sufficiency. Many enthusiasts are turning to skills and crafts that were once commonplace in society but have since been largely replaced by modern technology. One such craft is woodworking. From creating functional items around the home to crafting tools for bushcraft and survival, woodworking offers a range of practical benefits. Many self-sufficiency advocates find joy and satisfaction in crafting their own tools, furniture, and accessories using traditional woodworking tools. While modern power tools can expedite the woodworking process, there is an undeniable charm in using hand tools that have stood the test of time. Tools such as the froe are not just tools but pieces of history that connect the woodworker to ancient craftspeople.


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DIY Cheese Making: How Our Ancestors Did It

How to make homemade cheese

Cheese, one of the oldest and most beloved foods worldwide, has a rich and diverse history dating back thousands of years. The art of cheese making, which began as a preservation technique in the warm climates of the Middle East, has evolved over time, influenced by geography, culture, and technology. Today, we explore the roots of this culinary marvel, delve into the reasons for its regional differences, and guide you through making your own homemade DIY cheese.

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Life, Business, and Spoon Carving

Forgotten Skillz projects are only partially about the final outcomes. They are far more about the journey of discovery of skill, self, and community.

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January 17th – National Hot Buttered Rum Day

Hot Buttered Rum Recipe

January 17th is National Hot Buttered Rum Day!

It’s cold outside.  Good thing you thought ahead, planned for ample firewood, stocked your larders, and made sure to have a plentiful store of RUM to keep the blood invigorated.  While modern science tells us that alcohol only makes us FEEL warm by causing the blood vessels in our skin to dilate, there is something primal about the heat of an adult beverage glowing in one’s belly as one sits by the fire.  Here is our favorite recipe for this sweet adult beverage.

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Quotes About Being in the Wild

Quotes and inspiration about being in the wild
Quotes are textbooks refined to their essence.  We may not always have the book with us or remember the fullness of the lessons, but the quintessential spark contained in the quote can often fan the flames of memory when we need inspiration.  Here are some of our favorite quotes collected from around the internet and from our teachers and friends.


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