Simplicity

Everything seems to be complicated, even simplicity.

I've been looking into a minimalist lifestyle, and a bit at homesteading as well.

The couple of 'how to get started' type books that I've read have been so focused on the end result, one even suggested the first thing to do was to buy a block of land!

Way to jump in the deep end!

By taking things slowly and changing things in small steps, taking the time to build habits, and to really look at what works and what doesn't, permanent lasting change is possible.  And the best part, is you get where you want to be. 

I have learnt that where we 'think' we want to be, might not actually be what we want.  Jumping in with a 100% effort, head down, ignoring your own body and mind in a quest to get something you 'want' not only doesn't work for a lot of people (who then beat themselves up about it) but can also lead you down the wrong path, and lead to the wrong place.

I know I want something different.  I know that where I want to be entails having the time to provide healthy, unprocessed food.  I know that I want to be close to family and support.  I know I want to have less 'stuff'.  I want my kids to spend less time in front of a screen, to love and appreciate life.

A homesteading lifestyle and minimalist lifestyle both appeal to me, but I can't jump in and buy a block of land and just 'start'.  There are skills I need to learn, things I need to finish, and personal work I need to do.  I pretty much have a bit over half a year to finish my Phd, and then I have to wait the school year out.  And who knows, I might hate it when it comes to actually doing it.

So start small I shall!

Along with all the small changes I am already making, I will start introducing some habits for myself, and for my children and husband, that will move us toward that lifestyle!