If I were to give one reason why I can’t homeschool, it would be the fact that I’m an introvert. A really big introvert. An I-will-die-if-I-don’t-get-enough-time-to-myself-every-day introvert.

Obviously it isn’t a good enough reason because we’ll be entering our fourth year of homeschooling this fall. But my introversion is probably the biggest hurdle I have to personally jump while homeschooling Caroline.

Over the past few years I’ve had to find ways to homeschool effectively and keep myself mentally sane healthy and happy at the same time. Here are five important truths I’ve learned.

Important Truths about Homeschooling and Introverts

1. Embrace the fact that you are an introvert.

We live in a culture that worships the extroverted ideal. Being an introvert can often feel like swimming against the tide.  But remember this truth. God made you an introvert. He could have made you any way He chose, but He specifically created you as an introvert. You are an introvert, specifically wired this way by the Creator of the Universe.  Woo hoo!  Embrace your introvertedness!

2. Don’t try to ignore or downplay your introversion.

Your introversion is an important part of your personality. It isn’t something you choose to be or not be.  Recharging alone isn’t optional for introverts. Extroverts can get recharged at co-op, church and Target. Introverts need time alone. Pretending that it isn’t important is a sure-fire recipe for burnout or, even worse, depression.

3. Don’t be a martyr.

In order to be a healthy homeschooling mom, you need to take care of yourself spiritually, physically and mentally. It is not selfish to act on the fact that you need time alone every day. It is wisdom and good stewardship. You don’t do yourself or your family any good if you ignore your most basic needs of space and time alone.

4. Plan strategically for introvert time.

Do a children exchange with another introverted mom on a regular basis. You each get a free afternoon every week. Block off thirty minutes a day when you are left alone and your husband can run interference. If thirty minutes seems impossible, start with fifteen. Ideally, I would guess most introverts need at least an hour to thrive, but start with something. Don’t ignore your need because it seems impossible. Start with whatever small step you can take and build from there. Make a plan. Just like you plan the education of your children, plan for your own well-being.

5. Utilize outside help.

I love my daughter dearly. But as a homeschooling mom I’m with her basically 24/7 unless my husband takes her out to do something and I stay home. I am very thankful for our homeschool co-op. It is a few hours every week when Caroline learns and has fun with other children and I can be freed up from her presence, questions, and energy. Knowing how good it is for both of us, I will continue to utilize outside help. I get a much needed introvert break and she gets to learn from other caring and gifted people.

So don’t be afraid to embrace your introversion and adjust aspects of your life to be healthy!