Episode 85 - Beginner Homesteading

Beginner Homesteading: How to Start Your Journey

 

Easy First Steps for Beginner Homesteaders

 

Start Small and Simple  

Begin with small projects that fit your current lifestyle, such as growing herbs, composting kitchen scraps, or raising a few backyard chickens. These manageable steps will build your confidence.

 

Understand Your "Why"  

Define why you want to homestead. Is it for healthier food, self-sufficiency, or a deeper connection to nature? Knowing your motivation keeps you focused and helps with long-term planning.

 

Research and Plan  

Find reliable sources of information to guide your journey. Books, online forums, and local workshops can help you learn about gardening, raising animals, or preserving food.

 

Making Simple Lifestyle Changes for Homesteading

 

Reduce Your Reliance on Stores  

Begin by shifting from store-bought products to homemade alternatives, like baking bread or canning your own produce. This mindset change can ease your transition.

 

Incorporate Self-Sufficiency Slowly  

Gradually replace store-bought items with homegrown ones. This might be eggs from your own chickens, homegrown veggies, or even homemade soap.

 

Prioritise Sustainability  

Use energy-efficient practices such as rainwater harvesting, solar power, or composting, even in suburban settings, to ease the transition toward more sustainable living.

 

How to Get Your Family on Board and Handle Overwhelm

 

Engage Your Family in the Process  

Get your family involved in homesteading decisions. Start with fun and easy tasks, such as gardening or raising chickens, so everyone can feel part of the adventure.

 

Manage Overwhelm  

Homesteading can feel overwhelming at times. Break large tasks into smaller, manageable goals, and celebrate each small success to keep motivated.

 

Time Management Tips  

Balancing homesteading with your current lifestyle can be tricky. Set aside specific times for homestead work, and remember it's okay to take things slow.