It’s Autumn! A bittersweet time of change for many parents as older children are moving on to exciting new things; new terms, new jobs and flying the nest.
For many parents, contemplating this new phase of life can be both exciting and daunting. As children leave home to pursue their own adventures, parents often find themselves at a crossroads, wondering, “What’s next for me?” and “Who am I, now?” If you’re a parent experiencing this stage of life, you’re definitely not alone!
The empty nest phase is often a deeply felt transition; very uncomfortable, but inevitable and necessary. It can seem like you’ve experienced a sudden shunt into the next stage of life which somehow takes you by surprise… even though you’ve had years to prepare for it! Without the daily responsibilities of parenting, it’s common to feel adrift and this stirs up a confusing mix of totally conflicting emotions; pride and excitement for your children and a sense of freedom for yourself along with a profound sense of grief, a loss of identity and a feeling of lack of purpose.
Take some time to feel these feelings – allow yourself to look back and remember those special days when you were their whole world and feel a sense of a job well done that they have the confidence to go out and make their own mark; to find their own meaning and purpose. Be proud of the time and love you’ve so enjoyed giving your children.
Then… think about what’s next! It’s your time – what can you get excited about?
This is a powerful time of change, self-discovery, and transformation. While it can be challenging to let go of the role you’ve spent the last 20 years perfecting, it’s also an opportunity to rediscover yourself and embark on a new journey of personal growth. Now is the time to rediscover your passions and interests and think about new avenues for personal fulfilment. Take the opportunity to re-evaluate your values and goals and align your new life choices with those values.
Don’t let the empty nest phase be a time of unhappiness; let it be a time of transformation and renewal. Join us for our coaching workshop or take advantage of our offer of 2 free one-to-one coaching sessions and embark on a journey of self-discovery, growth, and empowerment.
During the workshop and within the one-to-one sessions we’ll help you explore and redefine your identity beyond the role of a parent. You are more than just a caretaker; you have unique talents, passions, and interests that deserve attention. Through guided exercises and discussions, you’ll gain insights into your strengths, values, and aspirations, setting the stage for a more authentic and fulfilling life.
Together, we’ll help you navigate this exciting next chapter of your life with enthusiasm, grace and purpose.
Written by Gabby Palmer
Coach and NLP Master Practitioner