Homesteading is a lifestyle centered around self-sufficiency and connection with the land and even though it has its benefits and challenges, the advantages tend to be plentiful enough to outweigh any inconveniences you might encounter. Here are five simple ways you can start homesteading.
5 Simple Ways To Start Homesteading Now
Start small
When you start homesteading it can seem like a daunting process, especially if you’re completely new to it. One of the first things you should do when you establish your homestead is to set small, clear goals. Figure out exactly what you want to achieve and be as specific as possible. Do you want to grow your own vegetables or raise livestock? Do you want to brew your own beer or upcycle everything you have? Regardless of what your goals are, be as specific as possible to ensure success.
Begin adjusting your lifestyle
Begin adjusting your lifestyleOnce you have your goals set, it’s time to evaluate your lifestyle. Look for consistent habits that are a part of your daily life. Find ways you can be more self-sufficient and simplify your life. If you notice that you frequent the grocery store two times a week, consider starting a vegetable garden in your backyard to make your own produce. If you buy fertilizer for your lawn on a regular basis, start a compost pile. When you have a lot of free time on your hands, take up a habit like sewing to make clothes, towels, and light blankets.
Adjusting your lifestyle can even be as simple as cutting down on the number of activities you do each day—if you’re involved in the PTA, a book club, and a side hustle, consider cutting down on one of them to give you more time to start homesteading.
Do your research
In addition to starting a few small projects, do your research on the facets of homesteading. Before you start homesteading, read up on the benefits of this lifestyle. Learn how to accomplish different projects, like brewing your own beer and raising your own livestock. As you do your research, remember that no homesteader knows everything—you’re bound to make mistakes and learn as you go. Here are a few homesteading resources worth checking out:
- Mother Earth News—This comprehensive site offers a ton of information about all things homesteading.
- Growing Your Greens—This YouTube channel is a great resource for those looking to experiment with organic gardening.
- Self Sufficiency Magazine—Peruse through this site and find information on going green in the home, natural health, and recipes.
Consider upcycling
When you start homesteading, you’ll get into the practice of utilizing almost everything. You can use food scraps to create a compost pile, coffee grounds to fertilize your garden, and egg cartons or toilet paper rolls as seed starters. You can also upcycle glass bottles into flower vases or newspaper into mulch. If you really want to get creative, stack vintage suitcases and make them into a bedside table. Use old sweaters as pillow covers.
Learn how to make repairs
One area where you can boost your self-sufficiency when you start homesteading is being able to repair some appliances and smaller items within your home. If repairs aren’t an option, or the job is simply too complicated or dangerous, check your home warranty and see if you can replace your appliance altogether with the help of a professional. This will save you the time and money from going to the store and buying a replacement.
Now you have learned 5 simple and easy ways to start homesteading. What are you waiting for? Get started today.
2 Comments