Let Me Share My Empty Nester Journey With You
Hey friends! I want to talk about something that’s really close to my heart – the emotional rollercoaster of becoming an empty nester. Let me tell you, that shift from a house buzzing with kids to suddenly quiet rooms? It’s a lot to process. I know exactly how it feels to experience that mix of pride and sadness when your children head off to college or their next adventure. Trust me, what you’re feeling? It’s completely normal and we’re all in this together.
You know what I’ve learned? This phase of life comes with its own unique set of challenges. Finding new routines, rediscovering who you are beyond being a parent – it’s all part of the journey. I want you to know it’s okay to take your time with this transition. The first step is simply acknowledging how you feel.
I remember feeling that sense of loss so clearly. Those daily conversations over breakfast, the constant commotion that made our house feel alive – suddenly it all changes. But here’s what I want you to know: by understanding and talking about these feelings openly, we can create beautiful new chapters in our lives that honor both our children’s growth and our own personal journey.
Let’s Talk About Those “Yeah, but” Comments
Can we chat about something that really gets to me? It’s when people respond to our feelings with “Yeah, but…” I hear it all the time – “Yeah, but you can travel now” or “Yeah, but think of all your free time!” I know these comments come from a good place, but they can really sting when we’re trying to express our genuine emotions.
Listen, I get it – people want to help and make us feel better. But when someone responds with “Yeah, but,” it can make us feel like our feelings aren’t valid, like we should just snap out of it. And during a time when we’re already dealing with so many emotions, that’s the last thing we need.
To all our friends and family out there: instead of jumping to “Yeah, but,” try just listening with an open heart. Sometimes we just need someone to hear us, to validate our feelings, and to walk alongside us as we figure out this new normal.
How to Be There for Your Empty Nester Friends
If someone you care about is going through this transition, here are some helpful ways to show your support:
- Be present – Just hang out and listen – no need to fix anything!
- Acknowledge their feelings – Try saying stuff like “That sounds tough” or “I totally get why you’d feel that way.”
- Stay in touch – A quick text or call can brighten their whole day!
- Encourage new pursuits – Help them find fun new activities when they’re ready.
- Celebrate their parenting – Let them know what an amazing job they did raising such awesome, independent kids!
High Vibe Habits For A Dream Big Life
I help midlife women dream big and take action using proven strategies, tools and the power of habits to find confidence + joy in a new season of life.
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Here’s the Thing About Mixed Emotions
Let me share something important I’ve learned: it’s totally okay to feel multiple things at once! You can be incredibly proud of your kid’s independence while also missing them like crazy. These feelings aren’t mutually exclusive – they’re just part of being human.
I remember feeling absolutely thrilled about my children spreading their wings, but also experiencing this deep sense of loss in my daily life. And you know what? Both of these feelings are equally valid. Understanding this has helped me so much in processing my emotions.
I want you to embrace every single feeling that comes up – the joy, the sadness, the pride, the loneliness. When we accept all these emotions without judgment, it becomes so much easier to move forward with peace in our hearts.
A Simple Question That Makes a Big Difference
Can we talk about the power of asking “How are you?” I mean really asking it, and really wanting to know the answer? It’s amazing how this simple question can make such a difference in an empty nester’s life.
I’ve noticed that conversations often revolve around our kids – how they’re doing, what they’re up to. And while that’s wonderful, sometimes we need someone to check in on us too. It’s okay to need that attention and care.
To those supporting empty nesters: show genuine interest in how we’re doing. Your empathy and willingness to listen mean more than you know. Remember, we’re going through our own journey of rediscovery, and having someone acknowledge that is incredibly powerful.
I want to remind everyone that your emotional journey is important and deserves acknowledgement and care.
Tips for Managing Energy Shifts
Fully engage in habits that make you feel good.
Whether it’s a hobby, exercise, or a favorite activity, I’ve found that immersing yourself in these positive habits can be incredibly therapeutic. These activities serve as a way to fill the energy vacuum created by the absence of children.
Create something to look forward to
This can range from small-scale plans, like lunch with a friend, to more elaborate activities, such as an overnight trip. I’ve discovered that having future plans helps to create a sense of anticipation and excitement, which can alleviate feelings of sadness and loss.
- Plan Mini Adventures: Small outings like a lunch date with a friend or exploring a new cafe can bring excitement and joy. These don’t have to be grand gestures; sometimes the simplest plans can infuse your week with positivity.
- Dream Bigger: Consider planning an overnight trip to a city you’ve always wanted to explore. The excitement of planning, packing, and experiencing a new place can fill that vacuum left by an empty nest with wonderful memories and stories.
- Set Personal Goals: Whether it’s picking up a new hobby, joining a book club, or even setting a fitness goal, having personal milestones to look forward to can provide a fulfilling focus to your days.
Finding Joy in the Middle of It All
I want to talk about something really important: finding joy even when your emotions are all over the place. It’s not just possible – it’s necessary! You can absolutely feel sad about your empty nest while also finding happiness in new experiences.
I know sometimes we feel guilty about being happy during this transition. Like somehow enjoying ourselves diminishes how much we miss our kids. But let me tell you something – that’s just not true! Your happiness doesn’t take anything away from your other feelings.
Look for those moments of joy – they’re everywhere! Maybe it’s a great conversation with a friend, getting lost in a hobby you love, or just enjoying a peaceful cup of coffee in the morning. These moments matter, and you deserve to embrace them fully.
Transitions can leave an energy vacuum. Suddenly, the bustle and noise that filled your days may quiet, leaving you feeling restless. To combat this, plan for things to look forward to.
Wrapping It Up!
Friends, I want you to know that this journey we’re on as empty nesters? It’s full of opportunities for growth and self-discovery. Yes, it comes with its challenges, but by understanding and honoring our feelings, avoiding those “yeah, but” moments, and keeping our hearts open to joy, we can navigate this transition with grace.
Remember all those practical tips we talked about – managing your energy, staying active, and creating things to look forward to? They really do make a difference. This is your time to embrace new possibilities while still cherishing all those precious memories.
Most importantly, know that you’re not alone on this journey. We’re all figuring it out together, and there’s so much beauty to be found in this new chapter of life. Keep your heart open, be gentle with yourself, and remember – the best is yet to come!
High Vibe Habits For A Dream Big Life
I help midlife women dream big and take action using proven strategies, tools and the power of habits to find confidence + joy in a new season of life.
Are you ready to help your audience stop playing small, dream big and take action?
