10 Ways to Deal With Empty Nest Syndrome

When the kids are home, it seems like you never have time for yourself. But when you finally do have that time, the empty house can start to feel lonely, and parents forget to focus on themselves. Whether it’s your first kid or your last, having them leave home is still emotional. Here are five ways to help you love the next chapter, instead of fearing it.

1. Set a weekly call. Be it a Skype call or just a quick chat with the kids, get into a routine of communication with them without being clingy. They’ll be missing you just as much, but even if they’re homesick, they won’t want their mom or dad calling them 5 times a day. Healthy communication when they’re away will open the lines for honesty and long-distance bonding.

2. Find hobbies. Don’t just hang out at home and mope about how your babies are all grown up. Stay positive and readjust to your new life and freedom, taking advantage of it. Do everything you wanted to when you didn’t have any time for it. Sail on the Amalfi Coast, start your own business, or learn a new language!

3. Work out. Taking that new Zumba class or going for a run will up confidence and endorphins as well as helping you let go of that Empty Nest Syndrome. Apart from adding years to your life and toning up your body, being naturally healthy and stress free will turn that negative or sad energy into uplifted productivity and inspiration.

4. Reconnect with your spouse, or if you’re single, jump into the dating pool and enjoy yourself! You might even meet another empty nester. Focusing on romantic relationships will help you take the focus off your kids, and help you take off your parent hat. Savor this new stage in your relationship, or getting to know new people on a weekly date night.