Are there any other homeschooled introverts on here?

Question

Just wondering if I could get a little commiseration.

I've found that the most annoying thing about explaining my life to other people is that if I'm not with people 24/7, they all think I'm a sheltered freak.

Well, truth is, I'm something of a hermit. I like socializing, but I also need a day or two where I'm alone, or just with my boyfriend.

Does anyone else get ticked off when the basic need for solitude turns in to a value judgment?

Answer 1

Introvert here, and I totally agree on 'social' stuff.  My mother forced me to participate in things so I could overcome my 'shyness.'  Yes, I was a bit shy, too, but I really love my solitude.

Oh, and I went to public school.

Answer 2

I'm an introvert, and I'm homeschooled. I agree with you about the difference between being shy and introverted (I know, not exactly on point, but I just wanted toa dd that). I used to go to a normal school, and I never got one day to myself. Now, I'm extremely busy, but I also get the ability to decide when I really need a day to just relax and be alone. That's a huge part of what I love about home school. I don't think it makes you a freak or anything. I just think it's a natural want to reflect and think.

Answer 3

I'm homeschooled as well (since 8th grade), and honestly, the majority of other homeschoolers that I've met are introverted. There's nothing wrong with wanting time to yourself, or to be with your just boyfriend, that's perfectly natural.

However, from what I've seen, the majority of homeschoolers are not as socially advanced as their public schooled counterparts. This is even more noticeable when homeschoolers get to college, and leave the comfort of their home and have to enter a classroom setting.

You are a unique individual, and when other people judge you for being different than them, don't sweat it, just be yourself.

Answer 4

I have been doing some research on learning styles and different types of intelligence, and being comfortable with yourself and content with your own company is actually a gift.  It is called "intrapersonal" intelligence as opposed to "interpersonal".

I think we work too hard in this country to make everyone the same.  Some people prefer being alone.  Not everyone wants to be a social butterfly.  Differences are not only okay, but are necessary.  There are very useful jobs that require long periods of solititude.  We shouldn't attempt to force everyone into the same mold.

Answer 5

Yeah, I'm homeschooled and an introvert.

yes it's fun to be around people, but sometimes I just need some "me" time. It's completely healthy. Actually, I think the people who don't do this are unhealthy...That's just my opinion though...

Answer 6

There is nothing wrong with time for yourself.  You are not a freak.  Most home schoolers with parents who keep on top of their children, especially young children, make sure their children receive enough socialization.  I home school my kids and they do so much, it's ridiculous.  They are the most outgoing children you'll ever want to meet.  Most home school kids have something special, a gifted quality.  Most public schools can't provide enough to stimulate their brains.  Have you ever thought that your "hermit" qualities are a reflection of your IQ or possible giftedness?  If you aren't an excellent student with high intelligence, I will stand corrected, but be very surprised.  You are probably exactly what our future needs!