There is always so much to think of when managing a homestead. Sometimes it can be hard to just put those thoughts aside and enjoy a few peaceful moments. When the list of tasks to complete is never ending, It’s so important to learn strategies for managing stress on your homestead.
Homesteading can feel like running a business without making money. Often the cause of stress and overwhelm is the threat of losing control. In those moments the best thing to do is take care of the most critical things first and then sit down with your partner and discuss the issues.
Money Issues Will Require Managing Stress of Your Homestead
It’s a hard truth, but most people think they are going to save money homesteading and soon realize that isn’t the case. There are many excellent reasons to homestead such as quality food, sustainability, security and so on. Eventually, you can save money, but that takes time and experience.
Often partners have a desire to live off the farm and in many cases that isn’t realistic. It is important to save money, have some sort of health insurance and plan for retirement. Way too many people get hurt and then suffocated with thousands of dollars in medical and other bills that accumulated when they weren’t able to work. Equally as sad, is seeing elderly farmers who worked hard all their lives and struggle just to afford to stop the roof from leaking. Make sure, you aren’t spreading yourself so thin, that you rob from your future.
When we first moved to our little farm, I had no intention of working. Working was actually a blessing because through it we made connections in the community for buying pigs, hay and other valuable resources. Before making a decision to quit your job and homestead full time, have a serious look at your finances. Consider paying off as much debt as possible first and make certain that you are still able to save money. When you transition over to homesteading full time, think of it as a job. Be intentional about doing as much as you can to save your family money.
Progressing Too Quickly Will Cause Overwhelm
It happens, you found a great deal on some heifers or you couldn’t resist the chicks at Tractor Supply. At some point you will get overwhelmed and regret a decision. Learn from it, discuss what to do next and apologize if you went against your spouse’s wishes and did it anyway. Decide as a couple what to do next. Sometimes it’s just a matter of putting a plan together or you may have to post a listing on Craigslist. While these can be costly mistakes, there is always a lesson to learn. Go at a pace that you are both comfortable with. Promising that you can handle it all on your own is unrealistic.
Even in the best of marriages, there will be times when you feel your partner isn’t pulling their weight. It is all a matter of perception but can cause resentment. The best way to tackle this issue, is to discuss it. You may not be aware of all the tasks they are managing or if certain responsibilities are pulling them away from the home. You might discuss shifting responsibilities or a time frame for getting things back on track.
Prioritize Your Mental and Physical Health
It is amazing how much more manageable an issue can seem after you have had a decent night’s rest. If you feel stress and anxiety building, it maybe time to take a rest day. Do what is vital and leave the farm for a few hours to rest and recharge. Rest is important for both your physical and mental health.
As rewarding as homesteading is, it can also be exhausting at times. Prioritizing your health will help ensure that you can enjoy homesteading for decades to come. The work will always be there. Taking a few hours on the weekend to rest will help you in the long run.
