GrassFlower568

Empty Nest: Opportunity Or Dilemma?

The concept of time is very strange sometimes. When you're mired in the duties and blessings your children provide you when they are young, you never think that in what seems like the blink of an eye you will be packing their things away as they head off to college or to homes of their own. Even if you would rather they not grow up, you know that they will, and one day they have to find their own life paths. When that occurs, adjusting to the tide of your new life can be pretty challenging. You can, however, make the transition easier if you arm yourself with the proper mindset.

One of the things that can make your child's move to a new home a little bit easier to deal with is to recognize that your relationship is still intact. The relationship is not ending. It is only going through a transition. You are switching from the parent/child dynamic to a relationship that is a lot more equal. Your children will still need your advice no matter how old they are. Even more, you can start to take advice from your children as well. This time around, the relationship is more on an equal footing, since you are both independent adults. It is nice to understand that your child is just as interested in and hungry for your love and encouragement, even if it's not delivered in the same manner that it used to be.

There is a reason why many young couples opt to postpone having kids until later in their lives. That?s because the arrival of children often ends up meaning that spouses will have less time to spend with each other. Faced with the full time task of caring for their kids, it?s hard for couples to enjoy the romantic adventure of being together.

Your children leaving will give you the chance to once again reconnect with your spouse. Snuggling together by the fireplace, long walks hand in hand, and candle-lit dinner dates can once again find a place in your marital life.

Unmarried moms and dads can also enrich their lives when their kids leave. Your children?s departure will give you the opportunity to head out of the house to catch up with your old friends. There are many activities out there to introduce you to new people.

Raising children is a full time job that leaves almost no time for yourself. Many parents are so busy with their child's piano and soccer lessons that their own interests take a backseat. When the kids leave, you can once again pursue your dreams.

You now have the time for your former hobbies as well as time to engage in new pursuits. Go on a cruise, indulge in your earlier joy of painting, take up charity work, or start a business. With the departure of the kids, you are left with plenty of time to follow your dreams.

The best thing to do when your kids are gone is to allow yourself some time to get reacquainted with your new living situation before making any life-altering decisions. Naturally, you should remain connected with your kids, because they may be having a difficult time getting used to their situation as well. There is plenty of time to pursue new hobbies and adventures after both you and your children have grown accustomed to the living situation. Savor the new experiences and joys this aspect of life can bring. Your job as a parent of little ones is complete. You did a good job preparing your child for what was ahead. It's time to have fun, a new kind of fun. Get out there and make it happen.