5 strategies to enjoy your empty nest
I was in a conversation recently with another middle-aged woman and asked her what word or thought comes to mind when she thinks about this stage of life. Her response was immediately, “freedom!” I thought it was interesting because it wasn’t my first thought, but it gave me reason to celebrate the reality of it.
My friend raised two children and the youngest is about to graduate from college. Although he misses having his children at home, he is happy to have more time to spend on the things that interest him. He now he can read a book until he is ready to put it down. He can perform housework without interruption. his nights are quiet and offer time to relaxation and reflection.
I can appreciate more free time. Since one of my sons is just married and the other is working and going to college, I have more time for myself. I still get interrupted with requests for one or the other, but I don’t mind because that’s what my role requires. Since my children were born, I have always been a wife and mother first. service everyone in my family. I imagine the time is coming when both of them will be so busy that they won’t have time for me.
Are you approaching the “Empty Nest” era of your life? What new plans, if any, do you have to fill your time? Do you wonder what you could do now that the house is so quiet? Are here five ideas to recharge and prepare for the next phase of your life.
1) Embark on a new career
My sister-in-law has three children in college and for the first time in her life is exploring her options for working outside the home (or inside). after something serious searching for soulshas decided to study Reiki, a healing art that requires a gifted spirit to redistribute energy throughout the body to healing. Someone told her 10 years ago that she would be a healer. Is there a part of you that knows what he wants to explore? Research, dig, pray and to find out.
2) Find a way to serve
It’s a mystery to me how people get bored in life. Just reading the newspaper or Google News reveals a deep need for volunteers and Service to humanity Getting out of yourself can be very rewarding and can also lead to new friendships and opportunities.
3) Be creative!
We are creatures designed to co-create. Have you ever thought what it would be like to put a brush in your hand or create some jewelry? My 84-year-old mother-in-law makes jewelry almost every day. She has bling to go with everything! My husband likes to make barbecue sauce and beef jerky. There is something for everyone.
4) Start a hobby.
That same woman I just mentioned not only makes jewelry, she also raises finches, tends her garden, has a goldfish pond, takes computer and photography classes, and manages to sew up a storm! My middle-aged body could use some of her older energy.
5) Start a lunch group.
Do you have any girlfriends or friends whose company you enjoy? For women, coffee or lunch is a great way to connect. For men, a cigarette and some Scotch whiskey usually help make the connection. Whatever you love to do, get a group together and share some laughs!
Whether you feel freedom or a need for change, accept this moment and enjoy it. Life is short and the clock is ticking. Look for inspiration and then take some action. Do something you’ve been wanting to do. Make your wish list. Inspire someone else to do the same. Feel the satisfaction of making a small change in your life and the ripple effect it generates.
