In this article, we show you how starting small—by growing food, learning new skills, or raising chickens—can help you build resilience and find peace amidst chaos. It's all about creating a sense of self-sufficiency and well-being, even if you start with just one simple change.
Life feels unpredictable, and it’s easy to feel like we have no control over what’s coming next. But what if I told you that you could start building a sense of control right from your own backyard? It’s called homesteading, and it’s all about becoming more self-sufficient and resilient in the face of challenges.
Now, don’t worry—I’m not talking about turning your place into a farm overnight (unless you want to!). Homesteading can start small, with little changes that have a big impact on your life. Let’s dive into how you can take the first steps to get started, build resilience, and regain that sense of control.
What Is Homesteading?
At its core, homesteading is about becoming less dependent on outside systems and learning how to take care of your needs at home. This can mean growing your own food, raising animals, or even making things like soap or candles. Homesteading isn’t just for people with huge properties or farms—it’s for anyone who wants to feel more connected to what they consume and how they live. And guess what? It’s also an amazing way to build resilience.
Being resilient means you can bounce back from difficult situations. It’s about being flexible and adaptable in the face of change. Homesteading helps you develop these skills by teaching you to take action and find solutions on your own. It’s about having control over things that matter to you, which can go a long way in reducing stress and anxiety in today’s world.
Start Small: Grow Your Own Food
You don’t need a lot of space to start growing your own food. In fact, you can begin with something as simple as a few pots on a windowsill. Growing herbs like basil, mint, and thyme is a great way to ease into gardening. These plants require minimal care and can add a lot of flavor to your meals.
One person I know, Sarah, started with just a couple of tomato plants in her backyard. She wasn’t expecting to grow a ton of food, but by the end of the summer, she had enough tomatoes to can her own salsa and make sauces. Not only did she save money, but she also got a huge sense of accomplishment from knowing exactly where her food came from. Plus, it gave her a sense of control during a time when everything else felt uncertain.
Start Small: Learn Basic Skills
You don’t need to become an expert in everything right away. Begin by learning one or two homesteading skills that interest you. This could be something like baking bread, making your own jam, or even knitting. It might seem simple, but these kinds of activities help you feel more self-reliant and less anxious about what’s happening in the world.
Take Greg, for example. He felt overwhelmed by the economy and worried about rising costs. He decided to learn how to bake his own bread instead of buying it. At first, his loaves weren’t perfect, but over time, he found that not only was the bread better, but it was also more affordable. It became a way for him to unwind and focus on something positive when things got tough. Plus, there’s something really satisfying about eating food you made with your own hands!
Starting Small with Animals
If you have a bit more space, consider adding a few small animals to your homestead. Chickens, for example, are a great option for beginners. They’re low-maintenance and provide fresh eggs every day. Even if you don’t have a ton of space, you can create a small chicken coop in your yard, and these birds can really help take care of themselves.
I know a woman named Emily who started raising chickens in her backyard after her job became uncertain. She found that caring for the chickens gave her a sense of routine and peace. Plus, having a regular supply of fresh eggs helped reduce her grocery costs, which gave her some financial relief in tough times.
Homesteading and Mental Health
Homesteading has a powerful connection to mental health. In today’s world, we’re constantly plugged in, always checking the news or social media. This can make it feel like everything is out of control. When you start homesteading, you shift your focus to something positive and productive. You’re taking action, learning new things, and focusing on the basics: food, water, shelter, and self-care.
When you grow your own food, raise animals, or even make your own products, you’re taking back some of that control. You’re saying, “I can handle this—I’ve got this.” And every time you see your garden flourishing or hold a fresh egg in your hand, you’ll get a small boost of confidence that reminds you of your ability to adapt and thrive.
Final Thoughts: It Doesn’t Have to Be Perfect
The most important thing about homesteading is that it doesn’t have to be perfect. It’s not about creating a “Pinterest-worthy” farm or becoming a survival expert overnight. It’s about taking small, manageable steps that help you feel more self-sufficient and connected to the world around you. Homesteading can be the perfect way to build your own resiliency, one small step at a time.
So, if you’re feeling the pressure of the world right now, why not try starting small? Whether it’s growing a few herbs or baking your own bread, these little actions can have a big impact on your sense of control and peace. Remember, the journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step—and that first step toward homesteading might just be the thing that helps you thrive in today’s world.
Let’s get started! You’ve got this.
Beginner Homesteading FAQs
What is homesteading?
Homesteading is the practice of becoming more self-sufficient by growing your own food, raising animals, and creating goods for yourself, like soap or candles. It’s about reducing dependence on outside sources and focusing on what you can do at home.
Do I need a lot of land to start homesteading?
Not at all! Homesteading can be done in small spaces, even if you live in an apartment. You can start with a small garden, grow herbs on your windowsill, or raise a few chickens if you have a yard. Every small step counts!
How do I get started with homesteading?
Start with what interests you most! If gardening excites you, try growing a few herbs. If cooking is your passion, you could learn to bake your own bread or make homemade jam. The key is to start small and build your skills over time.
Is homesteading difficult?
It can seem overwhelming at first, but homesteading is all about learning at your own pace. Start with simple tasks and gradually increase your skills. It’s more about the process and enjoyment of creating than perfection.
Can homesteading really save me money?
Yes, it can! Growing your own vegetables, raising chickens for eggs, or making your own products can reduce grocery bills. Over time, homesteading can be a cost-effective way to meet your needs while increasing self-sufficiency.
Do I need any special skills to homestead?
No special skills are required to start! You can learn as you go. Homesteading is a great way to pick up new skills, whether it’s gardening, cooking, preserving food, or caring for animals. There are plenty of resources like books, YouTube, and online communities to help you along the way.
Can homesteading help with mental health?
Yes, many people find that homesteading offers a sense of accomplishment, routine, and connection to the earth, all of which can improve mental health. Activities like gardening or caring for animals can reduce stress and give you a sense of purpose.
What are the most beginner-friendly homesteading activities?
Starting with gardening or raising a few chickens are great beginner-friendly options. Other easy activities include making your own bread, creating homemade cleaning supplies, or learning to preserve food through canning.
How much time does homesteading require?
The amount of time depends on the activities you choose. You can start with just a few minutes each day, like watering plants or collecting eggs. As you become more comfortable, you might spend more time learning and expanding your homestead.
Can I still work full-time while homesteading?
Absolutely! Many people successfully homestead while working full-time. Start small, and as you gain experience, you can expand your homesteading activities. It’s all about finding a balance that works for your lifestyle.
How to Build Your Village: Even If You’re Not a “Joiner”
Share via: More Feeling disconnected in today’s chaotic world? You’re not alone. Building a strong personal “village” can provide emotional support, joy, and a sense of belonging. That can be
Mindfulness: Much More Than Just a Buzzword
Share via: More Feeling overwhelmed by life’s nonstop demands? Mindfulness can help. In this article, discover simple, science-backed techniques to slow down, regain control, and build resilience. No complicated routines—just
Mindfulness in Minutes: The Simple Hacks That Actually Worked for Me
Share via: More Mindfulness doesn’t have to mean hour-long meditations or expensive retreats. Sometimes, it’s as simple as taking a deep breath while feeding your dog. In this article, I
The Art of Bouncing Back: How to Build Emotional Resilience Today
Share via: More The world feels out of control, but your emotional resilience doesn’t have to be. Discover how to take charge of your well-being with practical, everyday habits that
The Best Ways to Recession-proof Your Life
Share via: More Recessions can be tough, but you are tougher. In this guide, we dive into actionable ways to protect your finances, strengthen your mindset, and build a recession-proof
Why Joy Matters (Especially When the World Feels Like a Mess)
Share via: More Joy isn’t just about feeling good in the moment; it’s the key to mental strength and resilience. Learn how to cultivate happiness, build daily habits that support
Right Now
Take a deep breath
Hold it for 5 seconds
Slowly exhale
Repeat 5 times
Make the World a Better Place
No More Panic: How Small Steps Can Make a Big Difference in Preparedness
buff.ly
If you’ve been feeling a little anxious about the world today—whether it’s unpredictable weather, health crises, or even the possibility of an economic downturn—you’re not alone. It’s norm...What interests you?
