Self-custody rests upon a foundation of core principles that govern an entity’s ability to control, manage, and protect both physical and digital assets. These principles offer a clear lens through which the strength of self-custody within any system can be measured and evaluated. In this chapter, we will outline these essential principles, followed by illustrative case studies to reinforce understanding through practice. Once these three principles become clear, you’ll find they can be applied to virtually anything in your life—because, after all, ”Self-Custody” begins with the word ”Self”.