How Being an Introvert Makes Homeschooling Easier

The world loves an extrovert. Our society chooses extroverts to head committees, run for office, and host talk shows.

But in reality, researchers have found that anywhere from 16 to 50 percent of the population is introverted. I would venture to say that an even greater percentage of homeschool moms are introverts.

I say that being an introvert makes it easier to be a homeschool mom.

Why Does Introversion Suit the Homeschooling Lifestyle?

As an introvert myself, I think I know why. We remember the dread that swelled up anytime a group project was assigned. We know how draining it can be to listen to lectures for hours a day. And we have experienced the angst caused by being required to interact and perform all day when we just wanted to be left alone.

So what are the benefits of being an introvert? Here are four ways it makes homeschooling easier:

1. Introverts Enjoy Being at Home

• Enjoying life at home is a huge benefit for homeschool or stay-at-home moms. I don't feel trapped being at home. And when I do want to get out, it doesn't require other people. I just go. Introverts enjoy the slower pace that homeschooling can afford.
• If I were having to deal with five children in three different schools while also keeping up with a three-year-old, every day would drain me. Yes, those couple of hours when most everyone was gone would be lovely, but the preparation each morning and night would be awful.
• If you're going to homeschool your children and spend quite a bit of time at home, being an introvert is ideal.

2. Introverted Homeschool Moms are Naturals at Hygge

• Hygge is defined as a form of everyday togetherness. Homeschooling fits that definition perfectly. In fact, homeschool moms were hygge before anyone had ever heard of hygge.
• Our homes are sanctuaries from the incessant demands of the world, not just pit stops to refuel and wash clothes between activities. So we naturally create a cozy, warm environment.

3. Introverted Moms are Judicious with Time

• It seems that introverts are more judicious with their time. We know that too much interaction will drain us and require considerable recovery time. We don't shun social engagements, but we recognize that for us, it extends beyond the scheduled time.
• For example, we love our homeschool co-op. However, it requires us to be out of the house for nine hours straight. I teach for five of those hours, and it takes a toll on me. Now that it is a part of our regular routine, my recovery time is less, but I still don't plan any activities for the next day.
• As introverts, we value our time and energy. We aren't willing to commit ourselves to every opportunity because we know the cost can be high.

4. Introverts are Independent

• Being independent can be a very beneficial trait for a homeschool mom. Introverts don't feel the need to do things like everyone else.
• We also don't require approval and acceptance of our decision to homeschool from the outside world. We do our thing with less concern over the opinions of others. This is can be very helpful when making the daring decision to homeschool.

Welcome Your Introversion

In a world designed to benefit extroverts, it can be difficult to accept your introversion. I've often wished I could enjoy crowds and activity more and that I didn't need solitude to recharge. It would be nice to do all the things.

But that's not me.

Instead, I've accepted my personality and refuse to try to be something I'm not. An introvert who is trying to be an extrovert is on the quick road to burn out. This is something that all homeschool moms need to avoid.

So don't feel as if your introversion is a negative. Welcome it for all the positives it can bring to your homeschooling journey.

About the Author

Bethany is the mom of six always homeschooled children who one day realized she'd lost herself in the process, probably under a pile of laundry. Her eclectic style of relaxed homeschooling draws upon classical to unschooling methods and everything in between.

While homeschooling her children, teaching at a Project Based Co-op, and writing about learning outside of school, she still tries to find time to read a book, drink coffee, and pay the bills. Read more from Bethany on her site BethanyIshee.com: Real inspiration for the authentic mom.