Burnout in the Trenches: A Season That Will Pass

Author

Britany Sproul – Jun 19 – 3 min read

There’s a quiet conversation that echoes through many homeschool homes—soft enough that you won’t always hear it unless you’re listening closely. It’s the voice of a mom who’s tired, worn thin, and running on empty. Recently, I came across a heartfelt conversation among homeschool mothers on Utah homeschool social media, and it struck me deeply. Not only because the words were raw and real, but because they were mine too. I’ve felt that burnout, that desire to hit pause, to walk away, even if just for a moment.

Burnout is not a sign of failure. It’s a sign that you’ve been giving too much for too long without enough replenishment. And while burnout can feel lonely, I was reminded through this conversation that many of us are walking this road together, even if we don’t always say it out loud.

One mother bravely shared how mental health challenges have made daily life feel like an uphill climb. She talked about therapy, support groups, and self-care—all of which help, but don’t make the struggle disappear. Her honesty opened the floodgates, and the responses were full of grace, understanding, and wisdom.

Some spoke of their own experiences with EMDR or Accelerated Resolution Therapy. Others reminded each other that our culture often convinces us our worth is found in works, in productivity—but our value is never determined by how much we get done in a day. We are worthy because we are, not because we do.

There were practical reminders too:

• Take a walk or just sit in the sunshine.
• Read with your children in a pile on the couch.
• Let them watch a show while you rest.
• Pray.
• Talk with someone who gets it.
• Rally your kids to do a 10-minute clean-up.
• Journal your thoughts—or even write out a prayer and listen for the answer.

More than one mom mentioned how powerful it was to simply say things out loud. To take what was hidden in darkness and bring it into light.

And so here I am, doing the same.

As someone who has experienced this season again and again—usually in cycles—I want to offer my piece of advice, one that I’ve had to learn the hard way: Learn to say “no.” Say no to new obligations when you feel your reserves running low. Say no when you’re stretched too thin. Not because you’re weak, but because wisdom often lies in restraint.

One book that helped me give myself permission to let go of perfectionism is The Gifts of Imperfection by Brené Brown. If you’re someone who struggles with giving yourself grace, this may be a timely read.

This post, while drawn from a conversation among spiritual women, is not meant to speak to only one kind of homeschooler. At Homeschool Hub Utah, we serve families of all beliefs, backgrounds, and educational styles. While this conversation is spiritual in tone, we believe that the encouragement and strategies shared are broadly helpful—whether you find your strength in God, in nature, in community, or in your own quiet inner knowing.

Mothers talked of filling up on scripture, praying for strength, casting out negative thoughts, and journaling their conversations with God. And others simply offered a hand: “Let’s hike. Let’s talk. Let’s support each other.”

And maybe that’s the biggest takeaway. This is a season. Just like winter gives way to spring, the weariness you feel now will give way to peace again. Keep walking. Keep breathing. Keep doing the next small thing.

This, too, shall pass.

With love and solidarity,

—A fellow homeschool mom walking the road beside you

(P.S. I used my personal “burnout assistant”—AI via chatGPT—to help me organize these thoughts. Another great tip for busy moms with little time!)

If you're feeling burnt out and unsure where to turn, you're not alone. We encourage you to connect with other families in your local homeschool groups, online communities, or even consider reaching out to us here at Homeschool Hub Utah. You matter. You are enough. And the work you are doing is sacred.