اشترك في قائمة البريدية

Empty Nesters Can Have Mixed Feelings About Their Situation

By Robert King


A parent's main goal is to raise their children to one day leave home and become responsible, productive citizens. They go through many things, some right and some wrong, to achieve that goal. But, ultimately, when that happens, many parents dread the time. They do not relish becoming empty nesters. This just means their home is empty of children. Though is should be a happy time, it is not always that way.

Parents can take pride in a child who is responsible and getting out on their own, to start their lives with the skills they have learned from their parents. Instead of being proud of the skills their children have learned, though, they are often sad to see their child leave. They need to understand that their child is going to benefit from what they have taught them.

If you are feeling this deep sadness, it is best to admit that instead of pretending all is well. You can be happy for your child and still feel a sadness and loneliness. Admit it and understand that it is normal. If the sadness becomes too bad, however, you may need to seek professional help for a period of time until the feeling passes.

One key to coping with the sadness is to think about things you enjoyed before you had children. Many of these have been forgotten about in the effort of raising your family. If they are still of interest to you, go back and enjoy them again. Or, at least find something that will be enjoyable to you.

You can not pursue new things that are fun for you, and maybe a little on the dangerous side. It may be you always wanted to skydive or zip line. Now you can. You can start a new hobby. You are no longer responsible for a small child, so can do those things. Seek them out and do them with not guilt.

Now is the perfect time to get busy on your career, doing things you could not do when you had kids. You can travel, or got to school, or whatever it takes to make you career a priority. You can even start a new career if you desire to do so. You have less family responsibility and can now focus on a new career.

Travel, which is so hard when you have children is now possible. You can travel across the country or even internationally, if you choose. RV living is also now possible. If retired, you have no time restraints. Keep you identification with you and you can qualify for special senior prices and programs. You have unlimited possibilities now, with no children to consider.

Downsizing is very possible now, and may well be something you want. You can either downsize to something cheaper, or something smaller and more luxurious. Move to the beach, or to the mountains, anything is possible. You don't have to worry about what is best for your children, or about the best schools or doctors. You can get by with a smaller house now that you don't have children. You can get a smaller one, maybe one that is much more luxurious.




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