Has your first child left home for college? Maybe your last child has left for college. I’m here to tell you there is hope. The goodbyes don’t get easier but you can find purpose in this new way of life. There are positives: less laundry, no complaints about dinner, it’s quiet. Very quiet. I don’t think one ever gets used to the so called “peace and quiet” of when children grow up and leave home. That’s the part I don’t like. It is way too quiet all day, every day. Truth: when the kids are happy, the parents are happy. What exactly makes you happy? Your kids right? And now they aren’t around anymore. So now what?? It’s the best time to take time to figure things out. I’ve taken the last few years to get some things around the house organized and also to figure out how I want this new stage of life to look.

Here is what I came up with that may help you adjust also.

1. Accept that high school seems like it never happened and that is ok.
2. Read more books.
3. Exercise (stop putting it off; your excuses have gone to college).
4. Spend more time with your spouse.
5. Choose one new hobby to try.
6. Work more or find a part time job that you love.

There is joy in finding your new purpose. Your job may now have new meaning to you. It’s good to still feel needed. Your kids still need you but in different ways now. Enjoy that. And enjoy the next chapter of life. Being an empty nester isn’t the end of the world. Your kid’s independence means you have done your job. Time for you to go find your wings and get out of the nest too.