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Getting There: How to Get From City to Farm or Ranch

With this post we’re beginning a series called Getting There. It will be focused on those of you who are working toward moving from city or suburbs to rural living. From time to time we’ll feature stories, suggestions, and strategies to help you move forward in your plans to get from where you are now to where you want to be.

The Big Question

Getting There Step 1–Answer the question:
Where do you see you and your family living in five years?

Peace in Rural Living Every day, Internet search engines receive thousands of queries using phrases such as “how to move to the country” and “how to get to the ranch or farm.” I have read countless forum posts by people from all economic walks of life and backgrounds wanting to move out to the country.

People are intrigued about the rural living lifestyle. They see value in its positive benefits for their lives and their families’ futures. It is something they want to pursue.

But many people don’t know how to make the move happen. It is daunting to think about such a major change. Existing jobs, homes, families, and friends have entangled many people in a way that make such a change nearly impossible.

These are important considerations and a part of our normal social fabric that give life substance. The good news though, is that they don’t have to be so daunting if you understand that this is not an event, but a process of change that culminates with the actual move. It is very similar to moving to a new area for a new job.

Most of us don’t like change. But as I have read the stories of so many people wanting to move, I see a common thread. They want to move, but seem to always have reasons or excuses why they can’t. Now I won’t even try to judge the excuses. But excuses and obstacles can get so big that they paralyze us, preventing us to take action. It confuses our heart’s desire with all the logistical facts that speak against a move.

If you are unable to get started, or find yourself treading water, ask yourself this question:

Where do I want to be living five years from now?

It’s a simple question that can be answered very simply. It is a general question but an important one. You and your family need to ultimately agree on a clear and understandable answer. What is the answer? On a beach? In a foreign country? In New York City? In the country?

Where do you want to be living five years from now? Consider your answer a bit.

Do you find yourself dreaming of the rural and country life? Does the desire come and go, or does it seem to stick around? If it sticks around, you are probably on the track to a specific answer…move to the country, or start a farm or ranch.
Discuss this with your spouse. It’s important to be in agreement about the ultimate destination of the family. It is no small thing to move your family and start a new life.
If you see yourself staying where you are or on a beach or in a foreign land, that is great. You can stop reading if you want, as these articles will not be going in that direction. But if you see yourself living in a rural area, on a ranch or farm–living a new kind of life–then stay tuned for Step 2!