Empty Nest Syndrome

The kids are either packed away to college or have moved out to start their own lives.  You have cleaned the house from end to end and top to bottom and there really is nothing left to clean.  You have caught up on your projects and now you have nothing to do.  Actually, you have a lot to do.  You have to reinvent yourself and this can be a very exciting time in your life.  List out what you used to like to do, what you have wanted to do but never had the time to explore, and what you think you might want to try. 

While you are reconnecting with friends, it is very helpful to join groups that focus on areas of interest, allowing you the possibility of making new friends with similar interests.  Get involved in some volunteer work that allows you to meet people versus volunteer work that keeps you isolated.  Join a group, such as a book club or a bicycle club.  There are as many groups and clubs as there are interests and usually your local library is a good place to start your research.  If you do not want to commit to a long-term group or club, look for single events.  Your local paper should have a listing of what is happening in your community.  Some people enjoy going back to work and others enjoy a period of semi-retirement or even early retirement.  There are no right or wrong answers as long as you enjoy your new chapter.  Remember, once a parent, always a parent as you transition from mom/dad to mentor.  Now, however, you are a parent with more freedom and less laundry.

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