Many parents face empty nester syndrome when their youngest child leaves home.
Don't dismiss it.
According to Very Well Mind, it's a very real condition leading to frustration, anger, and sadness. So, it's important to tackle empty-nest syndrome head-on.
8 Ways to Beat Empty Nester Syndrome
Here are 8 ways to rediscover purpose in your life now that active parenting isn't filling up your day-to-day anymore.
Revamp your home.
If you're going to start a home-based business, you should set up an office space for it at home. Many empty nesters also undertake other types of home renovations, like adding a home gym or upgrading the kitchen. Even something smaller like getting new furniture can be a nice upgrade. Now you don't have kids and their muddy shoes around to ruin it.
You might also consider adding an attachment or guest room to the house.
Downsize
Downsizing for empty nesters can provide financial benefits, reduced maintenance costs, and a simpler lifestyle with less clutter.
The decision to rent out or sell your home depends on various factors including the current state of the housing market, your long-term financial goals and your personal circumstances.
Declutter your space.
If you don't want to make major changes to your home, start by simply decluttering and organizing it. For example, you probably have old paperwork—like report cards—you no longer need.
For the paperwork you need to save, like medical records and estate planning paperwork, go digital.
Pick up a gardening hobby.
Don't just revamp the interior of your home. Take a look at the exterior too. Gardening is a great way to spruce up your outside space, plus it's a fun hobby.
If you don't have space for a garden, incorporate houseplants into your living area. They make for nice decor and can help boost your mood. Get houseplants that are easy for beginners.
Consider starting a business.
If you find that you're struggling with a loss of purpose, you might want to start a business. This can be a great way to pass your time and make extra retirement money. Great business ideas for retirees include consulting, pet care, writing, and franchising. T
he first step in starting a business is writing a business plan. This will describe how your business is structured and run and detail the startup costs you'll need to cover.
Start exploring the world.
Many people assume that traveling is best done young. Think again!
Empty-nesters are the perfect age to travel. There are many benefits: You're still healthy and physically fit, and now you have more time with the kids gone. Plus, you probably have more money to spend on traveling than when you were in your twenties and thirties.
Make a bucket list of travel destinations you'd like to visit and start tackling it. And visit Roving Retirement for inspirational and informative articles about traveling and living abroad in retirement.
Reconnect with old friends.
Social connections are an essential part of a happy and healthy life.
Research suggests that a solid social network can even help foster good mental health and stave off problems like dementia as people get older. Now that the kids are out of the nest, you'll probably have more time to devote to your friendships. Make a point of reconnecting with your pals, for example by inviting them to coffee or planning a monthly dinner date.
Start a social club.
Reconnecting with old friends isn't always easy. For example, you may decide to move in retirement—or you may find that your friends have moved away. If you're lacking social connections, start a club to meet new people.
Trend Hunter has a list of social clubs you might try, like a book club, documentary film fans club, or art-centric club. Basically, just identify what you're passionate about and invite others to join you in that activity.
Final Word about Empty Nester Syndrome
Dealing with empty-nester syndrome can be daunting. Don't let it get the best of you.
Try the above tips, like starting a business, travelling, or downsizing into a new home, to face this new phase in life. And make the most of all the advantages.
Guest post by Elmer George
Photo Credit: Pexels.com