“The greatest fine art of the future will be the making of a comfortable living from a small piece of land.”

Abraham Lincoln

Hey, it’s Ronai!

Today, I want to talk about a side of homesteading (I just have a hobby homestead…for now) that isn’t often discussed: the overwhelm that can come from juggling numerous tasks and responsibilities.

Your garden doesn't have to be picture perfect. Sometimes you just have to let the weeds grow.

The Reality of Homestead Overload

Each day, my to-do list includes meal prepping, tending to my chickens, and preparing for the upcoming garden season, not to mention teaching about essential oils and coaching my clients. Sometimes, it feels like my peaceful homestead is a whirlwind of chores and projects. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed when your living space is also your workspace.

Finding Balance Amidst the Busy

When the pressure mounts, I’ve found a few strategies that help keep the chaos at bay and allow me to enjoy my homestead:

1. Prioritize Tasks: Not everything needs to be done at once. I prioritize tasks based on urgency and importance. Sometimes, that might mean letting the bread baking wait a day if it gives me more time to secure my garden against an early frost.

2. Take Breaks: It sounds counterintuitive, but taking short breaks actually increases productivity. A quick walk around the property or a moment with a cup of herbal tea can recharge my spirits and clear my mind.

3. Use Essential Oils for Emotional Support: During particularly stressful times, I turn to my collection of essential oils. Most people love Lavender for calming their nerves but I gotta tell you, Citrus oils are my jam! Peppermint helps lift my spirits and keeps me moving. A few drops in a diffuser or a dab on my wrists can make a world of difference in managing my mood and stress levels.

4. Delegate and Accept Help: I’ve learned to accept help when it’s offered and delegate where possible. Whether it’s having family members help collect eggs or a friend assist with planting, every bit helps lighten the load.

5. Reflect on Successes: At the end of each day, I take a moment to reflect on what I’ve accomplished, not what’s left undone. This shift in focus helps me appreciate my successes and maintains my enthusiasm.

Terrashield not only shielding from pesky bugs, but from pesky thoughts.

Embracing the Homestead Spirit

Despite the occasional overwhelm, I wouldn’t trade my homestead life for anything. Each challenge is an opportunity to learn and grow. Homesteading isn’t just about self-sufficiency—it’s about building resilience and finding joy in the journey.

Remember, it’s okay to feel overwhelmed sometimes. What matters is how you handle it!! Focus on what drew you to homesteading in the first place. Embrace the simple joys, whether it's the fresh scent of bread baking, the contented clucking of chickens, or the earth between your fingers as you garden. These moments ground us and remind us why the homestead life is truly rewarding.

Got to love when a chicken wants a piggy back ride!