How To Handle The Syndrome Common To Empty Nesters

By Robert King


Parents go through many things in raising their children to raise their children to be responsible citizens when grown. That is their goal in raising their children, whether they do it right or wrong. But, the time ultimately comes when the child will be leaving. This is not always a pleasant thing for the parent. They don't want to face the empty nesters situation. Even though it is supposed to be a happy time, that is not always so.

Instead of feeling the emptiness and grief of a home without children, parents can take pride in their children. They are leaving home to start their lives, with the skills the parents have instilled into them. The parents can be proud that their children have the knowledge and responsibility they have been taught. They can look forward to the successes the children are going to enjoy.

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.

Finding a new hobby or something that will keep you occupied, something that you were not able to do when you had kids, maybe even something a little bit crazy but interesting. It may be you wanted to skydive, or zip line. Do it now that you have less obligations, and no small child to be responsible for.

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.

You are now free to downsize your home and live in different arrangement, either a swanky one, or a cheaper, smaller one. If you want to live on the beach, or in the mountains, or wherever, you are now free to do that, as you don't have to worry about being close to schools and doctors and such. You also don't need as large a house, so can get a more luxurious smaller one that may be something you have always wanted.




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