Homesteading; The Verb.
I know there is controversy over what exactly defines a “Homestead”. My personal opinion is that the noun- homestead; is a piece of land with a house plus space to grow, and raise enough food for your family.
HomesteadING, the verb is most definitely a lifestyle on a scale. From heavily reliant on purchasing all your family’s needs from a store to living 100% self-sufficiently.
I also find that since every family is unique, their homesteading life choices have their own set of unique adverbs too. Modern, Sustainable, and Natural are the basic adverbs of this half-Asian family!
But how do you figure out what your style is? Below are 5 Questions to ask yourself and your family to figure out what is important to you and how that can effect your choices in Homesteading.
5 Questions to Figure Out Your Homesteading Style
Question 1. What Could You Talk About For Hours?
When I asked my husband this answer, his response was; Overlanding. I could talk and debate about Nutrition for days! Together you get = off-grid health in an off-roading vehicle. This question is to help you figure out where your passions lie.
Question 2. What Influences Most Of The Decisions You Make?
Here is where you will discover your personal values. For my family, I choose to make my own elderberry syrup and bread because it’s cheaper. But I also choose to make bread and elderberry syrup because I know exactly what is going into the foods I make.
Question 3. Are There Things You Don’t Like?
This is an odd question, but I think it helps solidify a few things. I am not a fan of plastic products. Therefore I do everything to avoid using plastic in my house. I may have to spend a little extra on glass storage containers, I don’t buy dollar-store plastic holiday decorations, and I try to use reusable bags when I go to the store. This opinion is because I’d rather use more sustainable and earth-friendly products.
Question 4. What Are Your Strongest Skills?
Are you skilled at using a sewing machine? Do you have woodworking experience? Have you worked in a management position before or have good record-keeping skills? It will become obvious that things you have the strongest skills at will be the easiest for you do; so start there!
Question 5. What Are Some Things Your Family Needs?
Food, shelter, protection, and affection are the top priorities. Some families may not have all those, or they are working on making each more self-sufficient. We could also get a little more specific. Does your family have dietary restrictions? Do they need responsibility, more time outside, or community?
Modifying that Verb.
After you’ve answered all these questions, compile your answers and I believe you will find your adverbs. You may even discover more about your family together. As an added bonus ask your kids these questions and get their opinion!
What are the adverbs that describe your family’s lifestyle?