As the cold of January settles in and the new year begins, many of us find ourselves knee-deep in the routines of farm life. Winter chores can feel heavier than those in other seasons, both literally and figuratively. The demands of caring for animals in freezing temperatures, managing the land during dormancy, and the extra effort required for tasks like keeping water from freezing can turn what is usually a labor of love into something more daunting.
But what if we could change the way we think about these chores? Instead of viewing them as burdens, we can reframe our mindset to approach them with a sense of gratitude, joy, and fulfillment. By shifting from “I have to do this” to “I get to do this,” we open ourselves to a new way of experiencing the everyday tasks that keep our farms running.
The Weight of “Chores”
For many, the word “chores” conjures up images of monotonous, never-ending tasks—something to be dreaded or avoided. It’s a word that often feels heavy, as though it represents an obligation or a burden. When we view farm work through this lens, it’s easy to let the weight of those responsibilities cloud the joy that originally brought us to this way of life.
But homesteading, farming, and working with the land are meant to be fulfilling. The very act of caring for animals, growing food, and managing the land connects us with nature and sustains our families and communities. Instead of seeing chores as a list of tasks to trudge through, we can begin to see them as opportunities.
Shifting the Mindset: “I Get to Do This”
The simple act of changing the words we use can have a profound impact on how we feel about our work. Rather than telling yourself, “I have to feed the chickens,” try saying, “I get to feed the chickens.” The shift is subtle, but it transforms the task from an obligation into a privilege.
- “I get to feed the chickens” means you have animals that rely on you, and you’re helping to nurture life.
- “I get to muck out the barn” means you have livestock that provide for your family, whether through food, companionship, or income.
- “I get to milk the goats” means you’re providing fresh, nourishing food, while also taking a quiet moment with your animals.
- “I get to split firewood” means you’re preparing warmth and comfort for your family during the cold months.
This shift in language can reframe how we view every chore, from the smallest daily task to the most physically demanding.
The Power of Gratitude
Gratitude is at the heart of this mindset shift. When we approach our work from a place of gratitude, it becomes less of a duty and more of an honor. We can be grateful for the animals that provide us with food and companionship, for the land that sustains us, and for the opportunity to live a life close to nature. Even in the depths of winter, when chores may feel like a slog, there is so much to be thankful for.
For example:
- The animals rely on us: Their health and well-being depend on the care we provide, and there is something deeply rewarding about being their steward.
- The land gives back what we put in: The work we do in winter—whether it’s spreading compost, managing cover crops, or preparing for the spring planting—pays dividends in the growing season.
- We are building resilience: Every challenge we face on the farm, from weather to the daily grind, strengthens our ability to adapt and thrive.
Practical Tips for Shifting Your Mindset
While changing your mindset might seem simple in theory, it takes practice. Here are some practical ways to start shifting how you think about your daily farm work:
- Start Your Day with Intention: Begin each day by reflecting on what you’re grateful for. This could be as simple as taking a few deep breaths before heading out into the cold morning air. Focus on the positives—whether it’s the fresh eggs you collect, the warmth of your animals, or the crisp winter landscape.
- Turn Chores into Moments of Mindfulness: Instead of rushing through chores, use them as opportunities to be present. Whether it’s feeling the warmth of a freshly laid egg, the smell of hay, or the sound of animals eating, immerse yourself in the experience. These small moments can be grounding and remind you why you chose this life.
- Break the Day into Rewarding Tasks: Rather than seeing your chores as one long list, break them into smaller, rewarding tasks. Celebrate the completion of each one. For example, after mucking out a stall, take a moment to admire the clean, comfortable space you’ve created for your animals.
- Create Rituals around Your Chores: Sometimes adding a little ritual or personal touch can make chores feel special. Whether it’s a cup of coffee after the morning chores, playing your favorite music while you work, or using special gear that you love, find ways to make the routine enjoyable.
- Focus on the Outcome, Not Just the Task: When chores feel repetitive, remind yourself of the bigger picture. Feeding and watering animals every day might seem monotonous, but it’s essential to their health and happiness. Gathering eggs or harvesting vegetables may be routine, but it results in nourishing food on your family’s table.
- Teach and Share the Work: If you have children or other family members helping on the farm, use these moments to teach them the importance of each task. Sharing the work not only lightens the load but also fosters a sense of community and connection.
- Celebrate Small Wins: Every task you complete brings you one step closer to your larger goals. Celebrate the small wins along the way—whether it’s reaching a milestone in caring for your animals, completing a particularly tough chore, or simply getting through a cold, wintery day.
Cultivating Joy on the Farm
Ultimately, this shift in mindset isn’t just about reducing stress—it’s about cultivating joy. Farming, homesteading, and living off the land are challenging, but they are also immensely rewarding. When we approach our work with a sense of purpose and gratitude, we invite more joy into our lives.
It’s easy to get caught up in the hustle of daily tasks and lose sight of why we started this journey. But by changing how we think about “chores,” we can reconnect with the deeper meaning behind our work. We get to care for the land, the animals, and our families. We get to grow our food and be stewards of the earth.
So, as you head into this new year, I encourage you to try reframing your perspective on the work you do. Shift from “I have to” to “I get to”—and see how it transforms your experience on the farm.
Looking Ahead to a Fulfilling Year
As the days slowly start to lengthen and we prepare for the busy seasons ahead, let’s carry this mindset with us. Winter is a time for reflection and planning, and by setting an intention to approach our farm work with joy and gratitude, we can set the tone for a fulfilling and productive year ahead.
What farm tasks do you GET to do this year? How do you find joy in the everyday work of homesteading? Let’s start a conversation—share your thoughts in the comments!
