Why Creating Everything From Scratch is Slowly Burning You Out (And How to Fix It!)

Sep 13

Burnout is a reality for many of us who are dedicated to creating a sustainable, homemade lifestyle. From meals to cleaning supplies, crafting everything by hand can be deeply fulfilling—but it can also become overwhelming. Here are practical strategies to help you manage the workload without compromising your desire to live sustainably.

Prioritize Your Scratch-Made Efforts

Not everything has to be made from scratch every single day, and let me tell you, that’s perfectly okay. As much as we love the idea of making everything by hand, it’s simply not sustainable to keep that up all the time without running ourselves ragged. The key is to prioritize what truly matters to you and let go of the pressure to do it all.

For me, homemade meals are my top priority. There’s something deeply rewarding about preparing a nourishing meal from scratch, knowing exactly what’s going into it, and sharing it with my family. That’s where I choose to focus my energy. But for things like cleaning supplies? I give myself a break. I’ve learned that grabbing a bulk-made, eco-friendly cleaner when I’m pressed for time doesn’t take away from my sustainable lifestyle. In fact, it gives me more time to invest in the things that really matter to me, like enjoying those homemade meals with my kids.

Here’s a tip I’ve found helpful: keep a running list of what you feel strongly about making from scratch versus what you’re okay with buying. For example, I love canning, but I only do it during harvest season. It’s such a joy to work with fresh, seasonal produce, knowing I’ll have jars of homemade jam or tomato sauce for the winter. But during the off-season, I simplify things. I don’t feel the need to make all my sauces or snacks from scratch when the produce isn’t at its peak or my schedule is full.

You can take it a step further by planning your homemade efforts around the natural rhythm of your life. Break it down seasonally—what makes sense for you to focus on now versus later? Maybe fall is for baking breads and making soup stocks, while spring is for gardening and fresh salads. Giving yourself permission to let some things go, even temporarily, can relieve so much pressure and still allow you to live in alignment with your values.

It took me a while to realize that it’s not about doing everything perfectly from scratch all the time—it’s about finding balance. By prioritizing what matters most, you can still enjoy the process of homemade living without losing yourself in the never-ending to-do list.

Batch Cooking and Freezing Meals

Instead of making meals from scratch every single day, I’ve found that dedicating one or two days a month to batch cooking is a total game-changer. Honestly, it’s one of those things that has saved my sanity on busy homeschooling days or when life throws unexpected curveballs. By preparing large batches of sauces, soups, or casseroles that freeze well, I can cut down on hours of kitchen work during the week, and it’s been a lifesaver for me and my family.

Here’s how I got started: I decided to set aside one Sunday each month for batch cooking. It’s become a little tradition, where I make big pots of our favorite meals—chili, chicken soup, homemade marinara, or lasagna—things I know my family loves and that freeze well. I’ll double the recipe, so we can have one portion for dinner that night and then tuck the rest away for later. It feels so good knowing I’ve got a freezer full of meals ready to go when I just don’t have the time or energy to start from scratch.

To make it work smoothly, I use a meal planner. I plan out a few meals that I can easily double and freeze. I’ll jot down ingredients, block out the time, and make sure I’ve got everything on hand before my cooking day. It’s such a relief to not have to worry about what’s for dinner, especially on hectic days when I’m pulled in a million directions with homeschooling or working on the blog.

Investing in reusable freezer bags or glass containers has made all the difference. Not only do they keep everything organized, but they’re also eco-friendly, which aligns with my love for sustainability. I always make sure to label everything—what it is, when I made it, and maybe a little note like "add cheese" or "serve with rice"—so I don’t have to guess what’s inside or how to finish off the meal.

What I love most is that when the day gets away from me (which happens a lot!), I don’t feel like I’m compromising on the values I care about. I’m still serving my family homemade food, just without the daily hustle. Having those meals ready to go means I can focus on other things during the week, like enjoying time outside with the kids or working on a fun cottagecore project, without worrying about dinner.

Batch cooking has really given me back more time and mental space, and it feels like a gift I’ve given to myself. It’s a practical way to balance homemade living with the reality of a busy life. So, if you haven’t tried it yet, I can’t recommend it enough—plus, your future self will thank you when you’re pulling out that homemade casserole instead of scrambling to throw something together!

Use Simple, Multipurpose Cleaning Solutions

Instead of making separate cleaning supplies for every little task, I’ve found that creating a simple multipurpose cleaner has been such a lifesaver. In the beginning, I thought I needed a different DIY cleaner for each surface—something for the counters, something for the mirrors, another for the floors—but honestly, that was just adding more stress to my day. Now, I rely on one basic vinegar solution that can handle most of my cleaning needs, and it’s been a total game-changer.

The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make and uses ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen. I mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle and add a few drops of essential oil for a fresh scent—lavender or lemon are my favorites. Not only does this solution tackle everything from surfaces to mirrors, but it’s also perfect for mopping floors, which means I don’t have to juggle multiple bottles or worry about running out of different cleaners.

Now, I should mention, as much as I’ve embraced this natural cleaner for the rest of the house, my husband is a die-hard Tide detergent fan. No matter how many times I’ve tried to get him on board with homemade laundry solutions, Tide is his go-to, and honestly, I’ve learned to let that one go. Some battles just aren’t worth fighting, right? I’ve realized that while I can make DIY cleaners for most things, having a bottle of Tide in the laundry room is one small compromise that keeps the peace—and keeps our clothes smelling the way he likes them!

For me, it’s all about balance. Having this versatile cleaner means I’m not constantly mixing up new concoctions or stressing over ingredients, and my home stays clean with minimal effort. Plus, it still aligns with my love for natural, sustainable living (even if there’s a little Tide in the mix). I can quickly wipe down counters, shine mirrors, or mop up spills without pulling out different products for each job.

I love that this multipurpose solution cuts down on both time and clutter. And trust me, when the kids are running around and life gets busy, knowing I have a go-to cleaner that works for almost everything helps me feel more in control. It’s a small change, but it’s made a huge difference in my daily routine—and I get to enjoy a fresh-smelling, clean home without all the fuss.

Schedule Scratch-Making Days

One thing that has made a huge difference in managing the workload of homemade living is designating specific days for creating items like cleaning supplies, meal components, or preserved goods. When I first started, I used to make everything as I needed it, which felt chaotic—running out of an essential oil for my cleaner midweek or realizing I didn’t have enough jars to finish canning a batch of jam. That constant last-minute scrambling really took the joy out of it for me. So now, I schedule these tasks in advance, and it’s made everything feel so much more manageable.

For me, this looks like setting aside one day a month for bigger projects. For example, I’ll pick a Saturday when my kids are out playing and my husband is out playing golf, and I’ll spend the day making our homemade multipurpose cleaner, restocking my glass spray bottles, or canning tomato sauce. These dedicated days give me the time to really focus without feeling rushed, and it means I’m fully prepared for the weeks ahead. Having that cleaner ready to go or knowing my freezer is stocked with meals makes everyday life so much easier.

One thing I’ve learned is the importance of planning ahead. Before my batch cooking or cleaning day, I make sure I’ve gathered all the ingredients or supplies I need. I’ll make a quick shopping list a few days before, picking up extra vinegar for my cleaners, fresh produce for meal prep, or canning lids if I’m running low. That way, when the day comes, I can dive right in without the hassle of realizing I’ve forgotten something. It’s such a relief to have everything at my fingertips and not feel the pressure to make something on the fly in the middle of a busy week.

These designated days have become a bit of a ritual for me—almost a little retreat from the busyness of life. I’ll put on some music, maybe sip on a cup of tea, and get into the flow of creating. I find that when I schedule these moments, the process becomes enjoyable again instead of feeling like a chore. There’s something deeply satisfying about seeing all the jars of preserves lined up on the counter or knowing that my cleaning supplies are prepped and ready.

By doing this, I also feel more in control of my time. I’m not constantly running out of homemade goods and scrambling to make them last minute. Instead, I’ve created a rhythm where I know these projects are already scheduled, so they don’t pile up. It’s given me so much more peace of mind, and I can focus on the other parts of my life—whether it’s homeschooling, working on my blog, or just enjoying a quiet moment with my family.

In the end, it’s all about balance. Taking the time to schedule these tasks helps me keep everything running smoothly without burning out. Plus, I find that by grouping similar tasks together—like making several batches of cleaner at once or preserving multiple jars of jam—I’m more efficient, and it feels like less work in the long run. These designated days have been a game-changer for me, and I’m so glad I made the shift from trying to do everything all at once to having a more structured approach.

Outsource to Local Makers or Farmers

If there are certain items you feel strongly about keeping homemade but just don’t have the time to make yourself, consider outsourcing to local makers. For a while, I was determined to make everything—breads, cleaning supplies, jams—but as my schedule filled up, I realized I simply couldn’t keep up with it all. That’s when I discovered the beauty of sourcing these items from local artisans. Buying a fresh loaf of homemade bread from a local bakery or bartering with friends for handmade cleaning supplies still gives you the same sustainable benefits, but without the time drain. It’s such a relief to know that I’m staying true to my values without having to do it all on my own.

Where to start? One of the best places to look is your local farmers' market. I love going there because it’s full of people who are passionate about what they create—whether it’s fresh baked goods, hand-churned butter, or natural cleaning supplies. Many of these makers use organic, locally sourced ingredients, so you’re still getting high-quality, sustainable products. Plus, there’s something so satisfying about knowing you’re supporting small businesses in your community.

Another great place to explore is small craft fairs or local pop-up markets. These events often feature handmade goods, and you can find everything from artisanal soaps to home-canned preserves. I’ve found some of my favorite everyday items from these fairs, like beeswax wraps for food storage and beautiful handwoven dish towels. These are things I could make myself, but buying them from someone who shares my sustainability values allows me to focus on other homemade projects that I enjoy more.

Bartering is also an option. If you have a friend who loves making things you don’t particularly enjoy creating, why not set up a trade? Maybe you’re great at baking but don’t have time to make cleaning supplies—see if you can exchange a couple of loaves of your homemade bread for a batch of their DIY cleaner. It’s a win-win and strengthens the sense of community.

One of the best things about sourcing locally is that it keeps you connected to the sustainability movement, but in a way that’s manageable. You don’t have to make everything yourself to live a more sustainable lifestyle. Supporting others in your community who are committed to the same values helps lighten your workload, and it strengthens the local economy as well. It’s a beautiful cycle—one that fosters a sense of togetherness, rather than isolation, in our efforts to live more mindfully.

I’ve come to realize that sustainability doesn’t have to be an all-or-nothing approach. Sometimes, lightening the load by outsourcing to local makers is not only practical but also keeps the heart of homemade living alive. It allows you to stay true to your principles while also taking care of yourself, ensuring that you don’t burn out trying to do it all. So, next time you’re at the farmers' market or a local craft fair, look around—there might just be a maker who can provide the perfect balance for your homemade lifestyle.

Simplify Where You Can

It’s so tempting to go all out on every task—believe me, I’ve been there. I’ve spent hours making homemade pasta from scratch or mixing up intricate herbal cleaners with a dozen ingredients. While these things bring joy, I’ve learned that sometimes, simpler is better. It’s okay to cut back on the number of steps or ingredients when you can. In fact, it can be a lifesaver, especially during busy weeks when time and energy are limited.

Take meals, for example. I used to overcomplicate things, thinking every dinner needed to be a culinary masterpiece. But with homeschooling, my blog, running my consignment shop, and just keeping the house running, I realized that some nights I just need a meal that’s quick, simple, and nourishing. Now, I try to stick to simple recipes with five ingredients or fewer, and it’s been a game-changer. Meals like roasted veggies and a simple protein, or even a one-pan pasta dish, feel just as satisfying without all the fuss. One of my go-to’s is roasting a whole chicken—it’s so easy, yet it feels like such a treat.

The best part? A roasted chicken can stretch into several meals. I’ll serve it with veggies for dinner one night, then the next day we use the leftovers for sandwiches or salads. I even use the bones to make a simple broth for soups or stews later in the week. It’s amazing how much you can get out of one roast chicken, and it feels like you’re getting the most value and flavor with minimal effort.

This same simplicity has carried over into my cleaning routine as well. I used to mix up different DIY cleaners for every surface—one for the counters, another for the floors, and yet another for the mirrors. It was exhausting! Now, I’ve embraced basic solutions that work for multiple areas. My go-to cleaner is a simple mix of vinegar and water with a few drops of essential oil. It’s great for countertops, mirrors, and even mopping the floors. One bottle takes care of so many tasks, and it cuts down on both the time I spend mixing cleaners and the number of products cluttering up my cabinets.

There’s a certain freedom in keeping things simple. Instead of feeling overwhelmed by long recipes or complicated routines, I can focus on what really matters—spending time with my family, enjoying a cozy evening, or even just getting some much-needed rest. I’ve realized that quality doesn’t have to mean complicated. Simple meals and basic cleaners get the job done beautifully, and often with less stress and more satisfaction.

Living this way has helped me stay true to my values without feeling overwhelmed by the pressure to do it all. It’s a reminder that sometimes, less really is more. Whether it’s in the kitchen or in my cleaning routine, simplifying has given me more time to enjoy the things I love most while still keeping our home running smoothly.

Set Limits on Daily Tasks

One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned in managing my homemade lifestyle is to limit the number of “scratch-made” tasks I take on in one day. It’s so easy to fall into the trap of thinking I need to tackle everything at once—baking bread, making cleaning supplies, preparing homemade snacks. But I’ve found that this approach only leads to burnout and frustration. Instead, I’ve learned to focus on one major task per day and let the rest go.

It’s all about prioritizing and not overloading myself with too many tasks. By allowing myself to focus on just one major “scratch-made” project, I can give it my full attention and enjoy the process without feeling rushed or stressed.

One tool that has really helped me manage my workload is using a timer for homemaking tasks. I’ll set the timer for a specific period—usually an hour or two—and use that time to work on whatever task I’ve planned for the day. When the timer goes off, whatever isn’t finished gets put aside for another day. This approach has been a game-changer for keeping my workload manageable and preventing burnout. It also gives me a sense of accomplishment when I see what I’ve completed in the allotted time.

This system helps me stay focused and prevents me from feeling overwhelmed by trying to do everything at once. If I’m making bread, I’ll enjoy the process of kneading and baking, and then use the rest of the day to relax or focus on other aspects of life, knowing I don’t have to juggle multiple homemade tasks.

It’s also a great way to maintain balance. On days when I have more time or energy, I might take on additional tasks, like preparing homemade cleaners or prepping ingredients for the week ahead. But on busier days, I stick to simpler tasks and let the timer guide my efforts. This way, I avoid the trap of feeling like I have to do it all and can enjoy the process of homemade living without the pressure.

Embracing this approach has made my homemaking routine more enjoyable and sustainable. It’s allowed me to appreciate the value of each task and manage my time more effectively. So, if you’re feeling overwhelmed, I highly recommend giving this method a try. Set your timer, focus on one major task, and remember that it’s perfectly okay to save unfinished projects for another day.

Create "Scratch-Free" Zones

Sometimes, the pressure to make everything by hand can seep into every corner of your home, leaving you feeling overwhelmed and stressed. I’ve discovered that setting up "scratch-free" zones—areas where you can relax your DIY standards—can be a real lifesaver. These zones allow you to enjoy the homemade aspects of your life without letting them take over completely.

For example, I’ve designated our laundry area as a “scratch-free” zone. Despite my love for DIY, I’ve found it’s more practical to use store-bought detergents here. My husband is a big fan of Tide, and it simplifies our laundry routine. It’s one less thing to worry about, and it ensures we have a reliable product that works well for us.

Another area I’ve decided to keep scratch-free is our pet care routine. With pets in the house, maintaining their grooming and health can be a lot of work. While I love the idea of making my own pet shampoo or treats, I’ve found it easier to use high-quality, store-bought products. They’re designed specifically for pets and save me time and effort. Plus, knowing that I’m using products recommended by veterinarians gives me peace of mind.

Here are three major tips for setting up and maintaining your scratch-free zones:

Identify Your High-Priority Areas: Figure out which parts of your life you most enjoy doing yourself and which can be simplified. For instance, if baking fresh bread is a favorite activity, prioritize that while opting for pre-made pet care products or laundry detergents. Focusing on what truly brings you joy helps keep the homemade experience rewarding and manageable.
Plan for Convenience: Take time to stock up on convenient items for your scratch-free zones. This might involve purchasing extra bottles of store-bought detergent, preparing pet care essentials in advance, or keeping a supply of quick meal ingredients on hand. Planning ensures that you have everything you need when you need it, reducing the temptation to overextend yourself.
Communicate and Compromise: If you live with others, discuss your scratch-free zones with them and find a compromise that works for everyone. For instance, if your family prefers a particular pet shampoo or laundry detergent, make that the standard. Compromise helps reduce stress and maintains harmony in your household while allowing you to focus on the homemade projects you enjoy most.

Establishing these scratch-free zones helps alleviate the pressure to do everything yourself and creates a more manageable and enjoyable routine. It’s about finding a balance that works for you, so you can fully appreciate the homemade elements of your life without feeling overwhelmed.

Rotate Tasks Seasonally

I've found that certain tasks are much more manageable when aligned with the seasons. For example, I love making a big batch of cleaning supplies in the fall. This way, I’m set for the winter months and don’t have to worry about whipping up new batches when the weather is chilly. It's a great time to get these tasks done because I can use those quieter, cozy fall days to prepare for the busier winter season.

Similarly, I tackle major meal prep right before back-to-school season hits. With homeschooling and other activities ramping up, having a stash of prepped meals in the freezer makes a world of difference. I spend a day or two cooking and freezing casseroles, soups, and other convenient meals that we can quickly reheat on those hectic days. It’s a huge relief to have this stockpile ready, especially when life gets busier.

By rotating my efforts and adjusting my homemade projects to fit the season, I manage to stay on top of tasks without spreading myself too thin year-round. This approach not only helps me maintain a balance but also keeps the homemade experience enjoyable. I can focus on different projects when it’s convenient, rather than feeling overwhelmed by trying to do everything at once.

So, when you’re planning your homemade projects, think about how you can align them with the seasons. You might find that making cleaning supplies in the fall or prepping meals before a busy season can make a big difference in managing your workload and keeping stress at bay. Embrace the rhythm of the seasons to keep your homemade lifestyle both sustainable and enjoyable.

Use Technology and Tools to Your Advantage

There’s absolutely no shame in using appliances and tools to make your homemade life a bit easier. I’ve found that these kitchen helpers can be lifesavers. For instance, a food processor is invaluable when it comes to making dough. It saves me so much time and effort compared to doing it all by hand. Similarly, my slow cooker is a real game-changer on busy days. I can toss in ingredients in the morning and come home to a hot, ready meal by dinner, which is a huge relief when we’re juggling multiple tasks.

I also rely on my mixer for kneading bread. I used to do it all by hand, but now that I have a mixer, I can focus on other parts of the baking process while it handles the heavy lifting. These tools not only save me time but also make the entire process more enjoyable.

Bottom line: Balance is key. You don’t have to make everything from scratch to live a sustainable, homemade lifestyle. By using these strategies and tools, you can streamline your efforts and avoid burnout. It’s about finding what works best for you and making your homemade lifestyle as enjoyable and manageable as possible. Embrace the tools that help you stay creative and productive without feeling overwhelmed. Enjoy the fruits of your labor without the added stress!

Brooke

Hello Gorgeous Threads

Brooke Ramirez