For years, I’ve joked with Ashley that we are the “poorest middle-class people” you’ll meet. That isn’t about our actual income; it’s about our mindset. We simply prefer to live frugally with what we have.
Rather than immediately replacing a broken washing machine, I’d rather swap out the broken parts. We’re also not afraid of thrift shops, whether we’re hunting for a lightly used book or everyday household items.
Even at higher income levels, living frugally is surprisingly common. In fact, it’s often how wealthy people built their wealth in the first place, by driving a practical car instead of splurging on the most expensive model on the lot.
Of course, separating wants from needs isn’t always easy. No matter who you are, there’s always room for a little indulgence. I own four Lego bonsai tree sets. They sit on my dresser and serve no practical purpose other than bringing me joy, and that’s reason enough.
It’s easy to fall into the comparison trap, especially in the homesteading world. A two-second scroll on Instagram can leave you feeling like you don’t measure up to the picturesque farms on your screen. But social media rarely shows the full story.
Before you start comparing what you have to others, take time to decide what you actually need. Our family spent years living in an RV with a dream of traveling the country before circumstances forced us to change. We’ve rented, owned, and moved from suburban yards to small acreage.
Having less today shouldn’t stop you from building your dream. Even if that dream starts with a single tomato plant in a five-gallon bucket, you are still making progress.
Don’t let endless “wants” or social media expectations hold you back. Start where you are. Let your budget guide today, keep dreaming about tomorrow, and take it one step at a time.