The Empty Nest Blues: Finding Joy in the Quiet After Winter Break
Jan 04, 2025 by Anthony Damaschino
As I sat in my own empty nest this morning, sipping coffee in the newfound silence, I couldn't help but chuckle at the irony. We spend years dreaming of a tidy house and a moment's peace, only to feel lost when it ricochets back after winter break. But here's the thing: this next phase of your new chapter, though daunting, is also a gift. It's time to rediscover, recharge, and maybe even find a new sense of purpose.
The Loneliness is Real (But Temporary)
First, let's acknowledge the elephant in the room: it's okay to feel lonely and miss them. Your role as a primary caregiver has once again shifted, leaving a void that can be, quite frankly, unsettling. But here's the good news: this emotional limbo is temporary. Your kids may have just re-flown the coop, but their absence can actually help you. There is longer term advice, such as:
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Nurture other relationships
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Reinvigorate old hobbies
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Discover new interests
I believe in and think the three things above are a few of many good ideas I discuss in my books, but perhaps they may seem a bit much, maybe even overwhelming. If that’s the case, here are some Quick Pick-Me-Ups that may not seem as daunting as ‘learn to play the piano’.
- Coffee Shop Hop: Explore a local coffee shop, reach out to a friend to join you, Savor a favorite brew, people-watch, or read a chapter in a book.
- Sunset Sip: Find a nearby spot with a great view, and watch the sunset with a warm beverage and or a good friend,
- Walks with a Purpose: Take a short, walk in your neighborhood or a nearby park, focusing on your surroundings and take in nature.
- Library or Bookstore Escape: Spend an hour browsing your local library or bookstore, discovering new authors or titles. This is a personal favorite on mine. It never lasts just one hour.
- Brunch or Lunch: Treat yourself to a new meal at a nearby café or restaurant you haven’t tried. Or, go to your favorite and grab one thing you lobe. Savor the flavor!
- Dessert Night: Just like the action above, make a date with your sweet tooth. Go visit a highly-recommended or unknown dessert shop or bakery, indulging in a sweet treat.
These ideas are designed to be low-commitment, locally accessible, and aligned with 'You' Time, helping you ease into the empty nest period with small, enjoyable moments of self-care and exploration.
The point of all of this is, you don’t need to transform your life if you get down, sad, or miss your children. You can do that post winter break little thing and give yourself something fun, new, and special.
And as you do this, remember that millions of parents are right there with you, sipping their own coffee in the quiet. It's a rite of passage, really. Your kids are spreading their wings, and so can you.
