How to Start Homesteading: Beginner Tips, Local Food Hacks, and Meal Prep Made Easy

Starting a Homestead: Finding Freedom, Faith, and Fulfillment in Sustainable Living

A little over a month ago, I made a choice that has profoundly impacted my life: I deleted all social media apps from my phone. It wasn’t an easy decision, but I realized how much they were affecting my peace, focus, and ability to live fully in the present. What followed was a month of incredible renewal—peaceful, refreshing, and full of clarity.

This shift came at the perfect time as my family and I prepare for one of the biggest adventures of our lives: starting a homestead. This decision is not just about growing food or raising animals—it’s about taking a stand for a simpler, more intentional way of life that aligns with our faith and values.

If you’ve ever dreamed of starting a homestead, this post is for you. And if you’re not quite ready to take the plunge, I’ve included tips to embrace a homesteading mindset no matter where you are.

Why Homesteading?

Homesteading is more than a lifestyle; it’s a philosophy. It’s about living with intention, prioritizing quality over convenience, and embracing the rhythms of nature. For us, homesteading is a way to align our lives with our faith and values.

1. Reconnecting with Creation

In today’s fast-paced, technology-driven world, it’s easy to feel disconnected from the natural world. Homesteading invites us to slow down and reconnect with the land, the seasons, and the Creator who designed it all. Every plant grown, every animal raised, and every meal prepared from scratch is a tangible reminder of God’s provision.

2. Building Resilience

Homesteading fosters independence and resilience. By growing our own food and learning essential skills, we’re less reliant on external systems. This sense of self-sufficiency is incredibly empowering, especially in uncertain times.

3. Nourishing Our Bodies and Souls

Modern food systems often prioritize convenience over nutrition, leaving us disconnected from the origins of our food. Homesteading allows us to nourish our bodies with nutrient-dense, chemical-free foods while also nourishing our souls through the rewarding work of stewarding the land.

4. Creating a Legacy

Homesteading is about more than meeting our immediate needs; it’s about creating a legacy for future generations. By teaching our children the value of hard work, sustainability, and faith, we’re equipping them to live meaningful, impactful lives.

5. Aligning with Faith

For us, homesteading is an act of faith. It’s a way to honor God’s creation, steward our resources wisely, and live out the biblical principle of “working with your hands” (1 Thessalonians 4:11). Every step we take in this journey is rooted in prayer and trust in His provision.

How to Start a Homestead

Starting a homestead can feel daunting, especially if you’re new to farming or gardening. But like any journey, it begins with one small step. Here’s a roadmap to guide you:

Step 1: Assess Your Goals and Resources

What does homesteading mean to you? For some, it’s about growing all their own food. For others, it’s about living simply and sustainably. Start by defining your goals and assessing your resources.

• Do you have land, or will you begin with a backyard or even a balcony?

• What skills do you already have, and which ones will you need to learn?

• What’s your budget for starting?

Knowing where you’re starting from will help you create a realistic plan.

Step 2: Start Small

It’s tempting to dive in headfirst, but starting small allows you to learn as you go and avoid feeling overwhelmed.

• Begin with a small vegetable garden or a few chickens.

• Focus on one or two key skills, such as composting or preserving food.

• Gradually expand as you gain confidence and experience.

Step 3: Learn Continuously

Homesteading requires a diverse skill set, from gardening and animal care to food preservation and DIY repairs.

• Read books and blogs about homesteading.

• Watch instructional videos and attend workshops.

• Connect with experienced homesteaders who can offer guidance and support.

Step 4: Build a Community

Homesteading doesn’t mean going it alone. Building a support network is essential for success.

• Join local farming or gardening groups.

• Attend events like The Homestead Festival to connect with like-minded individuals.

• Share resources and knowledge with neighbors and friends.

Step 5: Embrace the Process

Homesteading is a journey, not a destination. It’s about progress, not perfection. Celebrate small victories, learn from mistakes, and enjoy the process of growing, creating, and learning.

For Those Who Aren’t Ready to Homestead Yet

Not everyone can jump into homesteading right away, and that’s okay. Here are some ways to embrace the homesteading mindset, even if you don’t have land or resources yet:

1. Support Local Farmers

By buying from local farmers’ markets or joining a CSA, you’re supporting sustainable agriculture and enjoying fresh, seasonal produce.

2. Start a Mini Garden

Even a small windowsill or balcony can be a place to grow herbs or vegetables. Start with easy-to-grow plants like basil, lettuce, or cherry tomatoes.

3. Learn Basic Skills

Homesteading is as much about skills as it is about land. Learn to bake bread, sew, can food, or make natural cleaning products. These skills are invaluable no matter where you live.

4. Reduce Waste

Simple changes like composting food scraps, using reusable containers, and buying in bulk can make a big difference.

Meal Planning as a Gateway to Sustainable Living

Meal planning is a practical and accessible way to adopt a more sustainable lifestyle. It saves time, reduces waste, and ensures healthier eating habits.

What’s Inside the Meal Planning Guide:

• The Benefits of Meal Planning & Prepping: Discover how meal planning can save you time, money, and reduce stress.

• Step-by-Step Beginner’s Guide: Learn how to plan, shop, and prep your meals with confidence.

• Sustainable Food Tips: Find out how to source local, seasonal ingredients and reduce food waste.

➡️ Download the Meal Planning Guide Here

Take the Next Step

Feeling inspired? Here are some resources to help you dive deeper:

1. Intro to High Performance Health Course
   A faith-based guide to optimizing your health and aligning it with your goals.
   Learn More Here

2. High Performance Health Academy
   A comprehensive program for those ready to embrace sustainable living and high-performance health principles.
   Join Now

Encouragement for Your Journey

Whether you’re ready to start a homestead or simply looking to live more intentionally, remember that every step matters. You don’t have to have it all figured out to start.

Pray over your plans, take one small step at a time, and trust that God will guide your journey.

Are you ready to take that first step? Download the Meal Planning Guide to get started, and don’t forget to check out the Intro to High Performance Health Course for even more inspiration.

PS: We’re looking for farmhands at Pendergrass Acres LLC as we expand our offerings. And stay tuned—our high-quality beef and chicken products are coming soon!