When it comes to budgeting for groceries, it can be a challenge to make ends meet, especially if you're trying to make rent or pay a mortgage. But don't worry, there are ways to make your money go further, even on a tight budget. I know, because I've been there.

Finding a Good Partner

Making your money stretch further is easier with a good partner. This can be a spouse, a friend, or anyone else who is willing to work with you to achieve your goals. In my case, Nicole is a huge help when it comes to homesteading and budgeting. She knows how to bake bread, so I keep her around! Of course, you can do it without a partner, but life is more fun when you have someone to share it with… and well, the sex is great too.

A good partner can help you with things like cooking, gardening, and budgeting. They can also provide emotional support when things get tough and help keep you motivated. When you're making lifestyle changes and trying to make your money stretch further, it's important to have someone who is on the same page as you, and who will help you to stay on track.

Focus on Sustainability
Focusing on sustainability means actively taking charge and doing something, anything, to make a difference. One of the best ways to learn where to start is by walking the aisles of the grocery store and finding the prices that make you the most angry. Then, start there. If the price of meat bothers you, get an animal. If the price of produce bothers you, focus on the garden. If the price of snacks bothers you, lower your expectations for what homesteading actually is.

Making this an important step is to prioritize your needs, making sure that the most essential ones are met first, and then working your way down the list. It's important to find the balance between what you want and what you need to survive. This is all about understanding the most important pieces of your lifestyle and figuring out how you can make them more self-sufficient and less reliant on external sources.

Get Chickens

Because chickens will give you both meat and dairy... Wait.. Are eggs dairy? No.. Were we lied to as kids?!

Chickens are great addition to any homestead, especially their eggs. It's also relatively easy to care for them, they are low maintenance and can be raised in a small space. It's also a way to have a steady source of protein and other nutrients that come with eggs and meat. Additionally, chickens are a natural pest control and can help keep your garden healthy. Chickens can be raised almost anywhere, which makes them a great option for anyone who wants to start a homestead on a budget And after that, you can focus on more important things like: perennials, plants that will come back year after year.

Focus on Perennials & other Plants

Perennials, like raspberries, blueberries, and other fruits and berries are an essential staple to any homestead! It's also important to learn as much as you can about gardening, soil biology, canning and baking, so that you don't make mistakes that cost you time and money. The most valuable tool you have is knowledge, so take the time to learn as much as you can.

Homesteading on a budget can be challenging, but it's definitely possible. By finding a good partner, focusing on sustainability and getting chickens, and learning as much as you can, you can make your money stretch further and achieve your goals. And remember, don't be afraid to ask for help or advice, because the best tool you have is the knowledge and experience of the people around you.