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The Positive of an Empty Nest

Disclaimer: Elise Ho, aka “Dr. Ho” is a Holistic Health & Life Coach. Dr. Ho is NOT a medical doctor, licensed therapist, lawyer, or a bevy of other things. Products or services that Dr. Ho believes in are the only ones that she recommends. Dr. Ho may receive compensation, product, or an affiliate commission on anything you see on this site. This is a personal Website solely reflecting Dr. Ho’s personal opinions. Statements on this site do not represent the views or policies of any organization with which I may be affiliated.

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Is there really a positive to an empty nest?

 

We asked some people what they found to be the negative and the positive of an empty nest.

Personally, I still sit on the negative side; that is mostly because I love having a full nest.  Although, I have also had an empty nest, and there are some pretty cool things about that too.

At any rate, here we go…

The most recent statistics for the U.S. show that 47% of adult children still live with their parents.

For many of them, it’s the best thing that could have happened. It gives them the chance to spend more time with their kids. It also allows for a new dynamic now that they are older, wiser, and more mature. Still, they cannot stay there forever. As much as these parents may dread the day their child moves out (again), it could be the best thing that’s happened. Empty nest syndrome may not be appealing, but here are a few reasons to look forward to it. 

 

Freedom

 

Your kids moving out gives you and your partner the chance to thrive and do everything you’ve always wanted to do but have worried about getting in the way of your kids or leaving them in the lurch. 

 

Now that you’re retired, you have the opportunity to do all the things you’ve planned for years. You can travel, volunteer, expand your skills, or simply hang out and watch TV just like you did before your kids were born. 

 

There are many ways for you and your partner to make the most of your empty nest, and although it may feel a little strange at first, you’ll soon get used to a house that is entirely yours. Besides, you can always get a pet if you’re feeling a little lonely. 

 

Repairs and Renovations

 

If you live in an older property, you may have needed to put off repairs or renovations because your kids were occupying rooms that would become something else once they packed their bags and moved out. Not only this, but there could be some important repairs and maintenance, such as repairing rotten beams or carrying out Termite Control to improve the home’s structure and safety. 

 

These repairs and renovations can add value to your home, and as you may have plans to downsize sooner rather than later, you can get plenty of money for your property and perhaps make back your investment and much more. 

 

Improve Family Relationships 

 

Adults sharing the same space – especially if they are used to living alone or enjoying independence – can tend to clash. The mixing of personalities could cause problems, and this may push you away from each other. 

 

An empty nest gives you the chance to enjoy a calmer and more grateful relationship with your kids. As you’re no longer living on top of one another and seeing them all day, it makes the times when you see them that much more special. 

 

Hopefully, you still get to see your kids enough, and they will begin to appreciate these meetings as much as you do. It could be the first time that everyone looks forward to seeing each other. 

 

You love having your kids at home, but there are many things to look forward to in your new relationship.  

 

For More On Parenting Older Kids
empty nest
How To Thrive With An Empty Nest
Older Child With Additional Needs
Parenting An Older Child With Additional Needs

Please use the comment section below to share your tips, questions, and/or thoughts about this post.

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Naturally Yours,
Elise Ho
Ph.D., D.N. Psych.
Behavioral & Mental Health Specialist

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18 thoughts on “The Positive of an Empty Nest”

  1. Yes, I think it is a positive development for both the child and the parents when they move out. I also agree that it helps improve family relationships and that’s based on my personal experience.

  2. Faith Stephenson

    Wow, that’s amazing! It’s one of the most interesting topics I’ve ever heard! The information you provided is very helpful. Thanks for sharing it with me.

  3. A positive perspective can be implemented in any situation. I like your thought here especially freedom. People don’t know what it means until you experience the opposite

  4. My kids are 18 months and 4 yo., but I have already started to dream about my life when they go to college. I would like to do house renovation for sure. Plus, more movie nights with my husband.

  5. I was thinking when my youngest son goes, it’ll be the first time with no kids since 1988. I don’t think I’ll like it one bit.

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About The Author

Dr. Elise Ho

Dr. Elise Ho

Dr. Elise Ho is a Holistic Health & Life Coach with a special interest in emotional health, life alignment, and energy flow.

Elise will partner with you to align your mindset, your energy, your home and your career so that you can live your life's desire with freedom and love.

Elise offers 30 years of experience and multiple certifications and degrees including a Ph.D. in Natural Health and a doctoral degree in Naturopathic Psychology.