Homesteading–no matter what kind of homesteading you do–is a completely different lifestyle and is always a labor of love. Because, let’s be honest, it can be a lot of work and sometimes it’s not a lot of fun. For people who aren’t homesteaders or into the old-fashioned lifestyle it might even seem strange or ridiculous to do everything the “hard way.”
But, whether you’re a homesteader or not, there are some things that you should never, ever say to a fellow homesteader:
1. I don’t know how you do it all!
This one bothers me the most. Yes, I do things the ‘hard way’ sometimes, but that doesn’t mean that I’m superhuman. Sometimes I make sacrifices like ordering pizza or staying up late to finish my chores and being sleepy the next day. It’s hard, but it’s not something that anyone couldn’t do with the right motivation. Don’t act like I’m a miracle worker–it’s just the product of stubbornness and hard work.
2. That sounds like way too much work!
Nothing is work if you like it. Besides, I’d rather be digging in my garden and playing with the dog than sitting like a lump watching reality TV any day. It’s only work if you look at it that way.
3. I wouldn’t have time for all of that.
It’s all about priorities and time management. Some days are easier than others, but generally speaking I have found that I have time for things that I care about. I think that if you don’t have time for important things in your life, then you need to look a little more carefully at what you’re doing and why.
4. You eat your animals?
I have never actually butchered my own animals because I haven’t the stomach for blood. But knowing exactly where your food comes from and what it’s eaten and where it’s been is pretty awesome. And it’s probably a lot healthier than the pre-packaged and ultra-processed things that most people eat. So yes, I do, and it’s sad that is considered strange.
5. That’s way too hard. I wouldn’t want to do that.
This always bothers me, although I have been guilty of letting similar comments slip. To me, this implies that whatever you’re doing is unreasonable and not worth the time. But I think that everything worth doing is hard, and that’s just a part of life. It’s not for everyone, but don’t think you’re paying a compliment by saying you wouldn’t do it yourself and don’t understand it.
6. Do you make everything from scratch?
Do I look like a pioneer? Homesteading is one of the most misunderstood lifestyles, in my opinion. It’s a mix of the new and old. Yeah, I may sew my own clothes sometimes and make my own food and soaps, but there are plenty of things that just aren’t practical to make from scratch.
Homesteading certainly isn’t for everyone, and while there are parts that I’m sure we’re all not fond of, in the end a homesteader obviously thinks its worth it or they wouldn’t be doing it. Even if you don’t understand it, be respectful.
Can you think of other things people have said to you that you wish they wouldn’t? Share in the comments!
I love this article so much! While I work outside the home 3 days a week my at home days are so much more busy. I hate to hear my coworkers say “enjoy your day off tomorrow!” Making from scratch dinners can be exhausting yet rewarding to know I did it and to know exactly what I’m feeding my kiddos. Yes gardening is constant work and takes up more time than I have sometimes but the benefits for outweigh the negative. And you’re right you absolutely make time for the things you enjoy.
I agree, Becky, the “day off” comments can be really hard sometimes. Thanks so much for commenting!!