Some Days I Want to Quit: Finding Confidence When Burnout Feeds Self-Doubt

If we’re being honest, every homeschool parent has thought about quitting at least once. Some days it’s after a morning full of tears over math. Other days it’s when the house is a mess, the toddler is climbing the bookshelves, and your carefully planned history lesson is falling apart.

Burnout happens — and when it does, it has a way of whispering the most damaging question into your mind:
“Maybe I’m just not cut out for this.”

The truth? Burnout and self-doubt often show up hand in hand, feeding off each other until you’re left drained, discouraged, and ready to throw in the towel. But, I’ve got good news — you don’t have to stay there.

Why Burnout and Self-Doubt Go Hand in Hand

When you’re physically, mentally, and emotionally exhausted, every little challenge feels bigger. Small disruptions become major frustrations, and mistakes feel like proof that you’re not capable.

Burnout says, “I’m too tired to keep going.”
Self-doubt says, “I’m not good enough to keep going.”

Together, they can make even a small setback feel like the end of the road.

Signs You’re Caught in the Burnout–Self-Doubt Loop

You might be stuck in this cycle if you notice:

  • Snapping at small disruptions — like spilled juice, a misplaced workbook, or a noisy sibling.
  • Feeling dread instead of excitement when you think about the next school day.
  • Constantly questioning if homeschooling is worth it or if your kids would be “better off” in traditional school.
  • Daydreaming about quitting far more than you used to.

Recognizing the signs is the first step to breaking free.

How to Break the Cycle of Homeschool Burnout

1. Lighten the Load

Give yourself permission to scale back to the essentials — reading, math, and one subject your child loves. Let go of extras for a week or two and focus on connection over completion.

2. Build in Joy

Add something to your week that energizes both you and your child:

  • A nature walk with no agenda
  • Baking cookies together
  • A messy art project that makes you laugh
    Joy is fuel — and you can’t run on empty.

3. Reach Out for Support

Talk to another homeschooling parent who has been there. Sometimes you just need someone to say, “I’ve had those days too — and it gets better.” Join a homeschool co-op, online support group, or meet up for coffee with a fellow parent.

Restoring Confidence Through Small Wins

Burnout can make you forget just how much you’ve already accomplished. To remind yourself, start a proof journal:

  • Write down even the tiniest successes — a breakthrough in reading, a science project your child loved, a morning without tears.
  • Review your list when doubt creeps in. It’s living proof that you are making progress.

Confidence isn’t built from perfection — it’s built from showing up, especially on the hard days.

Feeling stuck on where to start with your Proof Journal?
I’ve created a simple, one-page journal prompt to help you get started. Grab your free copy here and start your journey today!

We’ll never share your email. By subscribing, you consent to receive emails in accordance with our privacy policy.

Feeling like you want to quit doesn’t mean you’ve failed. It means you’ve been giving your all — and that’s exhausting work. With rest, a lighter load, and a reminder of your wins, your energy and belief in yourself can return stronger than ever.

Homeschooling is a marathon, not a sprint. And even if today feels heavy, it’s not the end of your story — it’s just a mile marker on the road to a richer, more resilient homeschool journey.