Hello friends, and welcome back to another Frugal Living Friday here at ASW Homestead!
If there’s one lesson homesteading (and life itself) has taught me, it’s this: living well doesn’t always mean spending more. It’s about being intentional with what we already have, learning to steward our resources wisely, and finding joy in simple living.
Our culture constantly tells us we need bigger homes, newer cars, fancier gadgets, and the latest wardrobe trends to “keep up.” But here on the homestead, I’ve discovered that true contentment comes not from accumulation, but from gratitude and creativity. Living beneath your means isn’t deprivation—it’s freedom. Freedom to say “yes” to what matters most: family, faith, and a future that isn’t weighed down by debt.
If you’ve been looking for some practical ways to rein in expenses without sacrificing a good life, here are three tips for living well beneath your means.
The temptation to compare ourselves to neighbors, coworkers, or friends can push us into unnecessary spending. But when we step back and choose contentment, we free ourselves from that exhausting cycle.
Skip the constant upgrades. If your car runs, keep driving it. If your house works, refresh it with paint or DIY projects instead of moving.
Consider habits that drain your wallet. Even small daily purchases (like smoking or drive-thru coffee) can cost hundreds each month. Cutting them brings big savings over time.
Remember: living humbly doesn’t mean living poorly. It means working with what you have and being grateful for it.
Feeding a family well on a budget is completely possible, and it doesn’t have to mean boring meals. It’s about making intentional choices:
Don’t shop hungry or tired—it leads to impulse buys.
Work inexpensive meals like beans and rice, soups, or casseroles into your weekly rotation. Not only are they cost-effective, but they can be comforting family favorites.
Buy whole, simple ingredients and stretch them creatively into your menu plan. A whole chicken, for example, can serve as roast dinner one night, soup base the next, and sandwiches the day after.
Instead of treating savings like something you’ll “get to if there’s extra,” build it into your budget like a bill that must be paid.
Break it down into manageable amounts (ex: $50 per week feels more doable than $200 per month).
Budget even for “fun money.” This helps you enjoy small luxuries without guilt while keeping you on track.
If you fall short, either find ways to earn a little extra or trim spending. There’s always room to adjust.
The truth is, living beneath your means isn’t about restriction—it’s about intention. It’s deciding to trade in comparison for contentment, waste for stewardship, and temporary thrills for lasting security.
Here on our homestead, we’ve found that some of the sweetest blessings come not from spending more, but from living simply, wisely, and gratefully. And friend, you can experience the same freedom.
This week, I encourage you to take one small step: review your budget, pick one area to trim back, and set that money aside. You’ll be surprised at how quickly little changes add up to big results.
✨ Let’s keep walking this journey together. What’s one expense you’re planning to cut back on this month? Share in the comments—I’d love to cheer you on!
Around here, we’re learning as we go—one season, one project, and one lesson at a time. I’m glad you’re along for the journey.
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