Are you trying to find that perfect, cozy balance between the demands of work, the joys of family, and the necessity of self-care?
Hey there, you. Yes, you juggling a dozen tasks while keeping your sanity intact. If you feel like life is throwing you curveballs faster than you can swing, you came to the right place. Take a breather, and know you aren’t alone. In this crazy, fast-paced world we live in, finding balance can seem nearly impossible.
Unlike what you hear from your doctor at your yearly checkup, there’s no bad news here—only good. In this article, we’re giving you the keys to success in the—we’ll say it—art of adding harmony to your homestead life. From tackling deadlines to wrangling kids, we’ve got you covered with practical tips, heartfelt anecdotes, and a healthy dose of solidarity. Who knew a virtual hug is just what you need?
Before we dig in, let’s paint a picture:
You’re kicking back on the porch with coffee in your favorite mug (or wine in your favorite glass—no judgment here), and a feeling of calm and relief fills your spirit. This is how it feels to surround yourself with the wisdom of fellow homesteaders who’ve walked the same path as you.
It’s lonely sometimes, isn’t it? As homesteaders, we take on more responsibility than we often give ourselves credit for. That’s where community comes in—because everyone needs a little help sometimes.
Without further adieu, let’s talk about how we can take some of the strain away from you while you CRUSH homesteading life!
Taming the Beast of Work
Ah, work… the necessary effort that keeps the lights on and the garden growing. Whether you’re freelancing from your home office or punching the clock at a 9-5, finding the happy medium that works for you is vital for your sanity. So how do you keep work under control without sacrificing your mental health and precious time?
Tip #1: Prioritize Your Tasks
Try to start each day by listing your priorities. This gives you an excuse to go out and buy a nice, new planner. Identify the tasks that need your immediate attention and focus on them first. This will help you feel more organized and in control of your day.
Tip #2: Set Boundaries
Trust me, I know this one is difficult sometimes, but bear with me. Establish clear boundaries between work and family time. Set specific hours for work and try to stick to them as much as possible. Carve out some time dedicated only to your family and self-care activities, too. Protect this time from interruptions. Yes, phone, we mean you. You’ll surely have days where you slip on this, and it’s completely normal. Just keep trying, and you’ll eventually find your sweet spot.
Tip #3: Involve Your Family
I don’t know about you, but when I invite my son into the garden with me, his face lights up almost every time. Children especially love partaking in what many consider “adult” activities because it fulfills their desire to feel included. So, get your family involved in your homesteading activities. Let them pull weeds, pick carrots, and tend to other tasks. You’ll create priceless memories and finish some of those daunting chores quicker with extra sets of hands.
Tip #4: Delegate Tasks
This goes hand in hand with tip #3. Never be afraid to ask for help. Assigning age-appropriate chores will lighten your duties and create more time for relaxation—because I know you need more of that.
Tip #5: Take Care of Yourself
I can’t stress this enough: prioritize self-care. You put so much love and dedication into your craft. Do the same for yourself. Set aside a time each day to do something that rejuvenates your body, mind, and soul. Put on that face mask, take that bubble bath, and play that game with your partner, kids, or friends. Even if it’s as simple as taking a walk, do it for you.
Tip #6: Be Flexible
Everyone wants to do it all, and we love pretending like we can, don’t we? But achieving a pristine, perfect balance just isn’t realistic. Being a homesteader (like anything else) has its ups and downs, and we all know how life loves to throw curveballs. Be willing to adjust your schedule and expectations, and give yourself grace while doing it. Be kind to yourself, remember you’re trying your best, and celebrate your successes, no matter how small.
Reading Your Way to Success
While sitting down and reading may not always sound like your idea of a fun evening, the best advice is found in the nooks and crannies of the pages of books. Here are a few that cover balance in homesteading:
The Encyclopedia of Country Living by Carla Emery
This treasure includes just about anything you can think of regarding your homestead, from personal stories to powerful advice. Don’t miss out on it.
The Complete Book of Self-Sufficiency by John Seymour
Another cherished gem by homesteaders everywhere, this guide is self-explanatory (and also scalable depending on the size of your land!)
The Homesteader’s Herbal Companion: The Ultimate Guide to Growing, Preserving, and Using Herbs by Amy K. Fewell
This book not only offers valuable insights into herbalism and homesteading practices but also sheds light on time management, prioritization, and maintaining a work-life balance on the homestead.
Sometimes, stepping out of our own minds and spending moments in appreciation creates a world of magic. Take time to sniff your flowers, clip your dead leaves, and enjoy the fresh air. Think about the tiny toe prints speckled through the garden and mysterious stains innocently covering your children’s clothes.
When we’re too busy and endlessly distracted, we miss out on the parts of life that make it special. Yet, finding wholeness in the simple, albeit hectic, life of homesteading is truly a journey, not a destination. Give yourself a pat on the back. You’re doing amazing work!