There are many reasons people choose country living in Kansas or any other part of flyover country. Some want to grow their own food and reap the benefits of a nutrient-rich diet. Others are driven to raise plants and animals for a living. Still others simply enjoy the quiet and fresh air of a lifestyle more closely connected to nature.
This is the beauty of country living—it can look like anything you want! If your ideal country lifestyle involves a couple hundred acres of crops or cattle, that’s great. But if you are an apartment-bound city dweller with one tomato in a pot and a desire to bake your own bread, that’s wonderful, too!
If you are just starting on the journey, you have come to the right place. This step-by-step guide will help you create the abundant lifestyle of your dreams.
If you are already familiar with country living, however, we still encourage you to take a look. Some of the steps presented here may not be new to you, but they may help you make your abundant lifestyle even better.
A major part of success is to know exactly what you want to do and then focus on it. Too many new farmers and homesteaders try to tackle everything when first starting out, only to become frustrated. This guide is designed to help you achieve clarity in your vision so that you can move forward and create the life you really want.
Along the way, we’ll share some of our favorite resources to offer additional insight.
One final note—while Homestead on the Range focuses on Kansas country living, we think you will find that these principles apply no matter where you live. Enjoy!
1. Plan Your Vision
Before you can hit your goal, you must know what you’re aiming at. Abundant living will look very different for you than it does for anyone else. A big secret to success is to choose projects, enterprises, and pursuits that will bring you enjoyment. Start by setting some goals, and then create a plan to make that vision a reality. Here’s how to make vision planning work for you. Learn more »
2. Start Learning
There is a tremendous learning curve to many country living ventures. You will make mistakes. However, as you build your experience, you can ease the process by taking advantage of the expertise of others. Even as you do gain experience in your chosen projects, keep seeking out more knowledge for fresh insight and inspiration. Here are our recommendations for how to learn homesteading, farming, and ranching. Learn more »
3. Dig In
You have to start somewhere! No matter how much you read or hear, there is no substitute for firsthand experience. Often this step of making the commitment and getting your first plants or animals is the hardest, but don’t let it deter you from your vision. Roll up your sleeves and get to work! It’s time to start a farm! Learn more »
4. Practice Country Skills
Part of the country lifestyle is becoming more self-reliant. Not necessarily self-sufficient, but able to meet a portion of your own needs. Trips to town cost time and gasoline, so see if you can do it yourself when it makes sense. Learn how to do at least some of your own building, cooking, vehicle repairs, animal care, and, particularly, entertainment. These country living skills will enrich your life. Learn more »
5. Harvest Nutrient-Rich Food
Now it is time to reap one of the major benefits of country living—the ability to grow food that is so much healthier and more flavorful than anything you can buy at the store. Learning how to grow nutrient-rich food takes a little extra effort, but it really isn’t too complicated. It all starts with the soil. Learn more »
6. Grow a Business
Many people dream of quitting their day job and making a living in the country, perhaps directly from the land or perhaps through a cottage industry. Whether you dream of selling fresh eggs, stocker cattle, handspun fiber, or books, you can succeed as a small business owner with a little planning and a whole lot of perseverance. Here’s how to start a farm business. Learn more »
7. Balance Your Lifestyle
Country living can become hectic if you let it, but it doesn’t have to be this way! The first step toward a balanced lifestyle is knowing and adhering to your priorities. It also helps to work within a seasonal flow. Here’s how to avoid burnout and create a balanced lifestyle you love. Learn more »
8. Review, Revise, Repeat
Congratulations! You’ve come a long way! But country living is a journey rather than a destination. It’s time to stretch yourself and reach for the next milestone. Consider setting fresh farm goals, adding new projects, refining old processes, and giving back. Learn more »
Helpful Resource
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