Homeschooling is an incredible journey.
But it can easily become overwhelming if we let it.
In his talk Good, Better, Best, Elder Dallin H. Oaks reminds us of the importance of focusing on the things that matter most.
He teaches that while many things are good, only some things are better, and a few things are best.
This principle is vital for homeschooling success.
In Leadership Education, the Phases of Learning, Oliver and Rachel DeMille talk about the ingredients to homeschool success.
One ingredient is the “6-Month Purge” and another is the “6-month No.”
Start by decluttering your home.
Throw away or donate anything you don’t need.
This isn’t just about getting rid of stuff.
It’s about creating space in your life for what’s most important.
Less stuff means less cleaning.
Less organizing.
More time to focus on schooling and building relationships.
When we declutter our environment, we declutter our minds too.
Get rid of distractions and excess.
You’ll be amazed at how much more peace and clarity you feel.
Now, look at your schedule.
What are you saying “yes” to that might not be on your “best” list?
Be intentional about what you agree to.
Every “yes” is automatically a “no” to something else.
What are you saying “no” to when you agree to that extra project?
That sports practice every night?
When my children were young, I had them involved in lots of extracurricular activities.
One of them was soccer.
It meant we were spending almost every night at practice.
We realized that while soccer is good, it wasn’t the best thing for our family.
So, we made a hard decision.
We cut out team sports that took us away from home so many evenings.
We focused on what mattered most.
I don’t regret it.
When you say “no” to the good,
you make space for the best.
Take a hard look at how you’re spending your time.
Is it in line with your values?
Are you making space for the things that matter most to your family?
To your homeschool?
This requires courage.
You might have to say “no” to things you thought were necessary.
For years, I dealt with severe health challenges.
I had to set boundaries for survival.
It taught me to focus on what truly matters.
When you take time to regularly evaluate your life,
you’ll start to see the patterns that need adjustment.
It’s a powerful way to stay in balance as life changes.
What we don’t allow during homeschool hours is as important as what we do allow.
Guard this time fiercely.
Say “no” to distractions and unnecessary commitments during homeschool hours.
Focus on the essentials.
Focus on what’s best.
Remember, everyone has the same 24 hours in a day.
It’s how we choose to use them that makes the difference.
Simplify.
Declutter.
Say “no” to the unnecessary.
Focus on what matters most.
And watch your homeschool thrive.
