Do you wish you had more friends as a homeschool mom? Over my two decades of homeschooling, loneliness was a recurring problem. This is The Homeschool Sanity Show, the episode where I discuss how to combat loneliness as a homeschool mom.
Hey, homeschoolers! I'm going to confess that I have sometimes envied moms who have dozens of homeschooling friends through their church, co-op, or activities. Although I had several close friends for the majority of my homeschooling, they graduated their students, moved, or quit homeschooling–leaving me lonely. I struggled more than once with loneliness in these latter years. But I have learned a lot that I want to share with you if you're in a similar situation.
First, I want to say that if you're lonely it's not you.
-work
-co-ops, activities
-smart phones
-pandemic
Second, be open to unexpected options.
-retired homeschool moms
-older women not homeschooling
-friendships through activities
Third, remember that it's not about you.
-God wants to meet your needs
-But your purpose is to be a friend to others
-God may be using your loneliness to get you out of your comfort zone
Action Steps to Combat Loneliness
-Start a group or Bible study
-Take a class
-Ask people about themselves, even if they're staring at a phone
-Ask someone to come over or to go out for coffee
-Have a party
-Meet up with an online friend
-Read or listen to Find Your People by Jennie Allen
Conclusion
My prayer is that you will overcome loneliness to find joy in relationships again.
Have a happy homeschool week!
