Iker, 22 years old: In the city we take for granted that there will always be electricity and water, but here I have to get them for myself

At 22 years old, Iker has made a dramatic shift in his lifestyle by leaving the city behind and settling into a hidden house nestled among the mountains. This move marks a deliberate step away from urban life toward self-sufficiency and closer connection with nature. With no prior experience living in rural areas or managing livestock, Iker spent years preparing for this transition through patience and conviction. The decision to live off-grid was driven by a desire for autonomy and a break from the fast-paced rhythm of city life. His new home lacks access to electricity and running water, so he has taken matters into his own hands. Working alongside his cousin, Iker installed a solar power system after studying technical details on his own until the setup functioned properly. For water, he relies on a private well and collects rainwater using specialized channels that funnel the collected water through a filtration process before it’s used for consumption. Adapting to this environment required constant effort and a deep transformation in mindset. Iker acknowledged that urban comfort often hides the origins of essential resources. “In the city we take for granted that there will always be light and water, but here I have to get them myself. Everything is about putting in the work, and that's how you learn,” he stated. This change did not happen overnight. Before moving permanently, while still residing in the city, Iker sought ways to connect with rural life. He purchased eggs and milk directly from local small-scale producers, spent time in green spaces, and tried to incorporate rural customs into his daily routine. That period helped him develop the discipline necessary for the daily tasks he now performs without pause. Each day begins with the first rays of sunlight and the call of a rooster. The priority is the animals that share his space, goats, ducks, chickens, and a pig. Iker checks the enclosures, ensures food is available, and cleans the drinking troughs. In the early morning, when goats produce milk, he manually milks them. Afterward, he divides his remaining time among various physical tasks that vary with the season. These include cutting firewood for heating, repairing fences, pruning olive trees, and cultivating fruits and vegetables in his personal garden with the goal of meeting basic dietary needs. Iker clarified that remote work demands consistent commitment and emphasized that there is no easy money or magical solutions, only daily effort comparable to any conventional job. Alongside his twin brother, he leads a commercial project managed entirely from the farm via the internet. This venture provides the financial flexibility needed to maintain the facilities, purchase supplies, and sustain his way of life. His pursuit of self-sufficiency is an ongoing journey that looks ahead to future improvements. As part of this plan, Iker intends to increase the number of animals on the property, expand the cultivation of his own products, make artisanal cheeses, and optimize the infrastructure of his land.