Are you always exhausted? Do you cry or get irritated easily? Do you feel like you're just muddling through homeschool, chores, and your business? Are you just about ready to quit? You might be going through what is known as homeschool burnout. This common struggle can be avoided and today I will share helpful tips for avoiding burnout as a homeschool CEO
Burnout is a physical or mental collapse resulting from overwork or chronic stress. The World Health Organization (WHO) defines it as an occupational phenomenon, which means that it is work-related. However, as Homeschool CEOs, we know that our work doesn't involve our business alone but also our job as our kids' teacher too. This makes us even more prone to burnout because we are juggling so many different things, often at the same time. It is essential for us to know how best to avoid burnout.
Below are some tips for avoiding burnout:
01. Set boundaries
The lines separating your jobs as mom, homeschooler, and businesswoman can often get mixed up especially if you're operating your business at home. You might find yourself sneaking in work every spare moment you get. These can actually add up to a lot without you realizing it.
Set boundaries with your clients and your family as well so that you don't find yourself constantly jumping from one role to the next every few minutes. Tell your clients what your work hours are. Ask your kids not to disturb you during those times. Establish a set time for homeschooling too and focus only on that during that schedule.
02. Prioritize
As Homeschool CEOs, there’s always so much to do and so little time to do them. Remember though that you’re not superwoman and that no one is.
Everyone has limitations. Don’t expect yourself to handle so many things in one day. Make it a habit to list down your top three priorities for the day and just focus on those. You’ll feel better knowing that you were able to accomplish whatever is most important.
03. Delegate
No one can do everything alone. Everyone needs support from time to time, so don’t be afraid to ask for help.
For instance, let your kids do age-appropriate chores. Teaching life skills is also part of homeschooling anyway. Ask your husband to handle some of the errands. Does your business require so many small administrative tasks? Hire an assistant. This way, you can do what you need to do as the CEO.
04. Take breaks
You work so hard as a Homeschool CEO. You deserve to have a breather every so often and so do your kids.
Maybe you and your kids are getting tired of the curriculum you’re using. Change it up! The beauty of homeschooling is in its flexibility.
Why not take a week or two off from schoolwork and just do something fun? This will allow you to focus on being just “mom” and reconnect with your kids.
While you’re at it, take a break from your business too. Take a vacation with your husband or the entire family to recharge. You’ll come back feeling better and more motivated to do your jobs as homeschool mom and CEO.
05. Practice self-care
As moms, we tend to give everything we’ve got to our family. In the end, we also tend to forget to take care of ourselves. Remember the saying that goes “you can’t pour from an empty cup”. Keep that cup full by being intentional about self-care.
Self-care doesn’t always have to be something extravagant. It can be as simple as reading a book, writing in a journal, going out for a walk, exercising, or watching a movie. Doing what you enjoy will improve your mood and reduce your anxiety.
Experiencing burnout as a Homeschool CEO is normal. It’s not something to be ashamed or scared of. Just know how to manage yourself – mind, body, and soul – so that you don’t crash and burn.
