How to Adjust to the Empty Nest

After years of nurturing your children, the day will come when the last one is ready to make the transition into adulthood and an independent life. Whether he is going away to college, joining a new spouse in an apartment of their own or just moving in with friends across town, you might experience a time of sadness, loneliness or sorrow often referred to as Empty Nest Syndrome. While not a medical diagnosis, it is a recognized set of feelings that parents must acknowledge and work through to move on to a new phase in their lives.

Instructions

  1. Instructions

    • 1

      Start preparing early by getting involved in activities or groups before your child has left home. This will help you to dwell less on his absence and adjust more quickly than if you wait. It might also be a good way to meet other empty-nesters who can provide advice on various aspects of your situation, or who can simply listen when you need to talk through your feelings.

    • 2

      Review what you have achieved as a parent, from keeping your child healthy to teaching her skills and values. This knowledge will help you to recognize a job well done and focus on your future endeavors.

    • 3

      Avoid making big changes in your life right away such as downsizing to a smaller house. You may need up to two years to adjust fully to this new lifestyle, and you may come to regret your sudden decision later on.

    • 4

      Redefine yourself based on your interests and personal connections. Create a list of roles you have, from wife to coach to horse lover. Then decide where you might be able to expand these roles. For instance, if you̵7;ve always loved riding horses, now might be a good time to volunteer at a nearby stable or offer riding lessons to children on weekends. It̵7;s also a good time to pursue a dream you̵7;ve always held close to your heart.

    • 5

      Rekindle your relationship with your spouse and friends. For example, devote your new non-parenting time to exploring new cities with your spouse or joining a wine club with your girlfriends. If you are single, try to meet other people with similar interests through an online meet-up site.

    • 6

      Develop a new relationship with your adult child based on his independence. Find ways to connect with him without overstepping his boundaries or threatening his new sense of autonomy.

    2. Previous:No

    Next:

    • How to Deal With Empty Nest Syndrome as a Single Parent
      Your children have filled your world with activities, but now youre alone as a single parent after theyve moved out to attend college or live independently. Empty nest syndrome is the description for an adult type of separation anxiety. Jane Ehrman,
    • How to Cope When All Your Children Leave Home
      When the last child moves out to attend college or start his new life as an adult, a parent typically experiences several emotions all at once. Its normal to feel sad, lonely, unnecessary or, on the other hand, happy at being able to focus on yoursel
    • How to Let Go of Your Adult Children
      Whether your child is leaving for college or hes finally moving out at the age of 30, letting go of your child is difficult. Creating some space between you and your child will help him become a more independent adult, and it will help you appreciate