Practical Ways to Practice the Art of Homemaking as a Single

Is it possible to practice the art of homemaking as a single?

This is a question I came across online as I was reading a post from one of my favorite bloggers.

It’s easy to get into the mindset of “Well, I’m not in a relationship, not married, and don’t have a home of my own. So how can I put homemaking and hospitality into practice now? Or, is that even possible?”

The answer? Yes. 100%.

Granted, you may not be married or have a home of your own. But that doesn't mean you can’t put homemaking into practice right now.

So many women get caught up in the mindset that you have to be married in order to practice and learn more about the art of homemaking. So, they put it off until they enter into marriage, and/or a home of their own. However, this won’t help equip you for the future very well. It won’t offer the valuable experience that could be gained if you had started earlier in life. Wherever you’re at. Because not only does it help build or strengthen your work ethic, but it also helps cultivate a servant-like heart and attitude, and help to form a biblical view of hospitality. (Hebrews 13:2)

Strive to keep whatever space is yours tidy and pleasant.

My “space” would be my room. By striving to keep it as pleasant and neat as possible, I’m practicing to create a peaceful, warm environment that people appreciate. For me, I try to keep it clean, organized, and refreshing. Whether that’s by lighting a candle, putting on my diffuser, or buying plants from Trader Joes to put on my dresser, (although I may have reached my limit ;) it’s all helping to create that cozy, special environment that I desire in a home someday. What I’m doing with it now is exactly what I want to be doing with a home in the future. Treating and seeing it as a special place, and a way of practicing for a home that will refresh and welcome others. :)

When people come to your own, welcome them as if they were

stepping into your home.

Even if you’re still at home with your parents or siblings, when people come over, help make them feel at home. Offer them a drink, strike up a conversation, help make them feel comfortable and relaxed. This is a special way of practicing hospitality—something that is just as important now as in the future. Not only will it be appreciated by guests, but it will add to your character in a way that will benefit you and bless others both now and in the years to come.

Perfect your cooking and baking skills!

I can’t tell you how many women I have seen or met, whether on social media or in person, who are so disappointed that they got married and began managing their own home, and regretted having little to no experience in that area. The best time to get started on that is right now! Go on Pinterest, find a new recipe, and try it out. :) Believe me, you will appreciate all the time you put into it! And right now, while you’re single, is the very best time for that. :)

Help around the house whenever/wherever you can.

I won’t say too much about this because it’s something I’m still getting the hang of as well. ;) But this offers some incredible experience that will definitely be useful for when you have your own home to run and manage someday. :) Wash/fold a load of laundry, wash a sink of dishes, mop the floors, wherever there is a need. :) Again, this is probably one of the most helpful skills to acquire. :)

Create a schedule for yourself throughout the day.

Plan ahead for the week. Write down what you want to accomplish. I’ve started doing this recently and it is such a good habit! :)

Above all, the most important thing is to create a space that places Christ at the center of your home. A space that, when people enter, they can tell that there is something special about it. Clean dishes are great, folded laundry is great, mopped floors and spotless windows are all good things, (and are things that should/need to be had.) But above all, the very best thing you can do for you, your home, and the people who enter, is provide a space that speaks of something greater than any of that. That points to and contains something that is of the highest value. Love, joy, peace, warmth, welcomeness, and kindness, that reflects him above all else.

I hope this was encouraging for you! These are all super practical things, but once you make a habit of it, it will truly be so helpful. Not just for others, but yourself as well. :)

Have a lovely day! 💛

“Home is the foundation upon which great civilizations are built. It is the sacred dwelling where souls are forged, humans have great value and children are cherished and marriage is regarded  as holy.” Sally Clarkson

https://sallyclarkson.com/blog/home-is

This is such a beautiful picture of what the home should be, I encourage you to go read it. :)