The empty nest transition is a term used to describe the process of returning to retirement after children have left home. It can be a difficult time, as it can involve adjusting to new routines and living arrangements.
It is a time when the parents have to redefine their relationship with each other, with their children and grandchildren, and with the world in general.
It is a common phenomenon that many parents go through, but that doesn’t make it easier to adjust to. It can be an emotional time for empty nesters.
Some empty nester signs include:
- Feeling like you’re not needed anymore
- Feeling like you don’t belong anywhere
- Loneliness
- Depression
- Anxiety
The first step in handling this transition is to prepare oneself emotionally. Empty nesting could be stressful for people who are used to having children around.
It helps to realize that life is in stages. Look back at the different phases of separation that you and your children have walked through successfully and assure yourself that you will get past this too.
It’s important for seniors to make sure that they have their own hobbies, interests, and activities so they don’t feel like they are missing out on a lot when their children move away from home.
The empty nest period is a great time for the parents to spend more time with each other, enjoy life together, and do things that they couldn’t do earlier. It may be hard to adjust initially, just like retirement, but it will get easier over time.
Having an empty nest can be a difficult phase for parents, especially for mothers. It is usually at this point in life that they have to redefine themselves and what they want to do with the rest of their lives.
Like Rochelle Weinstein says, “A mother’s job is to teach her children not to need her anymore, and the hardest part of that job is accepting success.”
It is not easy to find yourself without your children at home. In order to enjoy this transition, consider volunteering for a worthwhile cause. You should also make a habit of praying for your children when you’re tempted to worry, and just rest in the fact that you did your best in raising them. That will go a long way to calm your mind.
