What to do when you wonder if you’re doing enough—or doing it “right.”
You’re midweek, mid-lesson, mid-sigh when it hits:
“Am I doing this right?”
“Are we behind?”
“Are my kids learning enough?”
If these questions sound familiar, you’re not alone.
Homeschooling is a bold and meaningful choice, but it’s not without its quiet shadows. Doubt doesn’t mean you’re failing—it means you care. Still, when anxiety builds, it can crowd out clarity, joy, and trust in the process.
Here’s how to steady yourself when uncertainty creeps in.
What Not to Do When Comparing
Comparison can be helpful—until it turns into self-critique. Watching how others homeschool might give you ideas, but it can just as easily lead you into a spiral of doubt.
Here are a few things to avoid:
- Don’t compare your behind-the-scenes to someone else’s highlight reel.
- Don’t assume another family’s structured schedule is a universal solution.
- Don’t use another child’s academic pace as a yardstick for your own.
Instead, ground yourself in the present: Is what we’re doing right now working for our family?
Are my children moving forward, even if the steps are small or quiet?
Mindset Shifts That Help
You may not need to do more. You may just need to notice what’s already working.
Here are a few helpful reframes:
- We are learning at a pace that fits our needs.
- My presence matters more than my perfection.
- Small, steady steps lead to lasting growth.
- Every child blooms in their own season.
You’re not just covering lessons. You’re creating a life of learning together.
Affirmations to Keep Close
On days when the self-doubt feels louder than your plans, read these out loud or copy them into your journal.
- I am capable of leading our homeschool journey.
- Progress doesn’t always look obvious, but it is happening.
- This season is part of a much larger story.
- I have permission to rest and reset.
- I am enough, and so is my child.
Journal Prompts for the Harder Days
Journaling won’t solve everything, but it can clear mental space and help you return to your own voice. Use these prompts to reflect without judgment.
- What moments of connection did I notice today?
- Where have I seen growth lately, even if it’s not academic?
- What are our homeschool priorities—and are we honoring them?
- What’s one thing I can release this week to create more ease?
- How would I encourage a friend who felt this way?
A Quiet Reminder from Chalk and Ink
Homeschooling isn’t about doing it all. It’s about doing what matters.
It’s about showing up. Listening closely. Allowing space for joy, mistakes, growth, and rest.
You don’t have to rush to catch up. You’re not behind.
You’re in the middle of something good.
Take a breath. Then keep going.
