Habits for the Homeschool Mom: The Habit of Fortitude
Homeschooling is a beautiful calling, but it can feel heavy at times. There are days when lessons do not go as planned, the laundry piles up, and discouragement whispers that you are not enough. In these moments, the habit of fortitude becomes essential.
Fortitude is quiet strength. It is the steady endurance that helps us keep going when the path is steep. It does not mean we press on with gritted teeth or try to do everything in our own strength. Fortitude grows as we learn to lean on God and take one small step at a time.
Why Does Fortitude Matter for Mothers?
Motherhood requires courage. Home education adds another layer of daily perseverance. The habit of fortitude is what steadies us in this work. It helps us rise on the mornings when we would rather stay in bed. It helps us teach one more lesson, speak one more gentle word, or wash one more dish.
When we live with fortitude, our children see what perseverance looks like. They watch us meet hard things without giving up, and that example forms their character more than any lecture on resilience ever could.
How Can We Cultivate Fortitude?
Here are some practical steps to strengthen this habit in your life:
1. Begin with Prayer
Start your day by asking for strength. A short prayer can change the tone of the entire day. “Lord, help me to do the next thing with faith and joy.”
2. Do the Next Thing
Do not look at the whole mountain. Focus on the next small task: fold one basket of laundry, read one page of a book, prepare one simple meal.
3. Anchor Yourself in Truth
Write down Scripture or hymns that remind you of God’s faithfulness. Keep them where you will see them throughout the day. Some helpful verses:
“The Lord is my strength and my shield.” (Psalm 28:7)
“My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” (2 Corinthians 12:9)
4. Rest with Intention
Fortitude does not mean constant striving. Give yourself time for refreshment: step outside for five minutes, sip tea slowly, read a page from a book that nourishes your mind.
5. Ask for Help
Fortitude grows in community. Share your struggles with a friend, your husband, or your homeschool group. Often the simple act of being heard gives courage to continue.
6. Keep a Record of Grace
End your day by writing down one thing you were able to accomplish by God’s help. Seeing His faithfulness builds confidence for tomorrow.
Books to Encourage Fortitude
Here are some excellent books to lift your heart and strengthen your spirit:
For the Mother’s Soul
Stepping Heavenward by Elizabeth Prentiss
The Hidden Life of Prayer by David McIntyre
Keep a Quiet Heart by Elisabeth Elliot
L’Abri by Edith Schaeffer
Habits of Grace by David Mathis
For Inspiration and Perspective
The Life-Giving Home by Sally Clarkson
A Mother’s Rule of Life by Holly Pierlot
Hinds’ Feet on High Places by Hannah Hurnard
Charlotte Mason & Habits
Ourselves by Charlotte Mason (especially the sections on courage and fortitude)
Formation of Character by Charlotte Mason
The Parent’s Review Articles on Habits (archived online at Ambleside Online)
Encouragement for the Journey
You will not walk this path perfectly. None of us do. But the habit of fortitude is formed little by little. Begin with prayer, take the next step, and trust that your faithful work is shaping a home filled with beauty and grace.
Remember, courage is not the absence of struggle. Courage is rising to meet the work God has given you, even when it feels hard, because you trust the One who called you to it.
