A new empty nester has complicated feelings.
They are happy for their children but sad for themselves.
It is more important than ever to do things that nourish you.
A New Routine
One of the biggest challenges you’ll face is adjusting to life without your kids. This includes trying to get back to a normal routine, filling in the blanks in your life, and exploring new opportunities. After living a whole life where your kids are the center of your world, it’s natural to feel overwhelmed and like you don’t know what to do. But don’t let that worry you. You can find ways to fill in the gaps in your life through activities like online dating and chat line trials, learning about new cultures, and taking on new responsibilities.
Build yourself a new routine where you are the new center of your universe. Take time to figure out what you like to do. And what you want your new life to look like. Of course, spending time on yourself doesn’t mean you don’t still have time for your kids. But it’ll allow you to live your life to the fullest as well as support theirs.
Coping With The Loss
Managing feelings of loss and separation that comes with being an empty nester will be hard. When I became an empty nester I walked the halls of my house crying.
Seek out support from other family members and friends. Remember that your parents went through the same thing with you way back when. So lean on their knowledge for expert advice navigating these difficult times.
And try not to bear down on your children with the weight of your expectations. Because what you think will likely happen in the coming months is very different to what they expect. Open conversations about this will help bridge the gap. But more importantly, let them make their own mistakes. It’s the best way to learn, and they won’t resent you for not letting them live their life the way they want.
Stay Connected
The most important thing you can do is stay connected with your kids. This means sending them periodic updates, keeping in touch through social media, and sharing any special moments together. It also means being there for them when they need you. It’s natural to feel lonely when your kids are gone for long periods. But by staying connected, you can help make the transition easier for both of you.
Create goals and positive ways to stay in touch with your children once they’ve left. Keeping in touch will help you navigate feelings of loneliness and continue to play an essential role in their lives.
Make Space For Your Hobbies In The Home
Another important thing you can do to make the transition easier for both you and your kids is to make space for your hobbies in the home. Hobbies are a great way to keep your mind active and help you relax.
As your children leave the nest, you may have more space in your home than ever. This newfound space can be an excellent opportunity to indulge in your hobbies again! However, if you’re like most people, you may not have much storage space for your new supplies and equipment. That’s where a storage unit can come in handy. And, if you choose a storage unit close to your home, it can be easy to access whenever you want to work on your hobbies.
As an empty nester, you have come upon a time in which you will have more time to explore your own hobbies. It is time to explore the things that you love. And rediscover yourself. Nothing is more empowering than making time for yourself and doing activities that you love and bring joy.
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30 thoughts on “Learning To Live As An Empty Nester”
I’m so happy I came across this blog and I’ll be sure to share it with women’s group. Not many Mother’s speak on the transition of empty nesting, stepping out of a routine you’ve done practically every day for 18 + years isn’t easy. Just remember to take it one step at a time.
That is much appreciated that you will share it. I think it’s so important that we talk about these things. We can all learn so much from each other.
Yessssss!! My youngest just went off to college, so my husband and I are experiencing this. I appreciate the sage advice and insight!
I will say, it definitely take some time to adjust.
Well said. Can’t agree with you more. I have one more to go and then it will be an empty nest.
It is a big adjustment when you shift to empty nesting.
This is such a good read. Perfect for those who are dealing with separation anxiety and for those who will endure the same in the coming months. This is indeed the things to consider to be able to positively live our life in case our children has their own already.
Thank you so much for your kind words this period of adjustment can be difficult for all but the more we talk about it the easier it can be.
Ah yyyeeeaaahhhh…I remember studying about this part of time in many peoples’ lives and it left wondering how it felt “getting freerer” like before kids came into the picture of your life.
It is definitely different than before kids came into life. Your nest is empty but you always remember that it used to be full.
Your post is so emotional. Though my child is very small now. But she was leaving with me 24×7 from last 2years and she will go for her physical school. And I was thinking how lonely I will feel during her absence. Hope you got some new and exciting to things in your life.
Thank you so much for thinking of me as you address to a big change in your life.
I have a 16 year old and though I was getting close to being an empty nester… but we had a surprise pregnancy and just started again. Definitely didn’t expect to be starting over but excited all the same.
That is extremely exciting but I am sure also very shocking.
Great tips! I agree that it’s important to stay connected and let them know that you are there for them. Thank you for sharing!
Connection is always key.
Great tips! Being an empty nester has been mixed for me, especially during the pandemic. But I’m hoping to resume traveling soon.
It is a special interesting during the pandemic. I hope that we will all be traveling more soon.
I’m not far from being an empty nester. I can’t imagine a quiet home with someone not asking me for something all day long.
Yes, that is one of the great benefits.
This has to be one of the hardest transitions in life. Really appreciate your honesty here…I know one day this will be me and it gives a tug on my heart even to think about it.
It is a very hard time even though we are so proud of our children as they learn to fly the coop.
Next year this is us. Our son heads to college! Yeah!
What an exciting time that is!
I used to think that I’ll be ready to let my kids go at 18 years. But now that my eldest is almost 17, I’m having mixed emotions, just like you. We’ve been talking about him registering for a university abroad and much as I would love him to get on with his life in the future, I’m also sad knowing he’s going to start living a life apart from us.
It is really a difficult time. We want what’s best for kids but it is also so hard to let them go.
I agree, staying connected is one of the good ways to cope. Also take things slowly, no one’s rushing you.
No need to rush. All things in good time.
Thank you so much for sharing your own empty nester experience. I have a friend who recently had her children leave the nest, and it’s been so hard for her. It’s also opened my eyes to the fact that I’ll be dealing with the same thing soon.
It is really a very large adjustment. And some days Feel easier than others.