As a parent, witnessing your child grow into a well-rounded individual who has a level head and a clear vision of their life goals is one of the most rewarding experiences.
This is a testament to your excellent parenting skills and exemplary behavior that your child can learn from and emulate positive qualities in their own lives. However, the journey of raising children is both pleasurable and daunting, as they grow up so quickly.
Nothing can truly prepare you for the day when they finally gain independence and leave the family nest to live in a university hostel.
According to Better Up – a lifestyle blog – this phase is often referred to as the empty nest syndrome.
The above-mentioned publication further explains: “Empty nest syndrome is the sadness or emotional turmoil that parents grapple within the wake of their children growing up and moving out of their family home. ‘Nest’ refers to the popular saying that children ‘spread their wings’ when they grow up and move on.”
While this is an emotional challenge being proud, yet sad at the same time there are ways of helping you cope during this transition.
Here are few you can implement:
Make new social connections
Most full-time parents often find their identity in raising their children. Because of this they might find themselves selflessly neglecting some relationship with friends and getting involved in social activities. With the child suddenly no longer around, this often makes the parent feel lost and purposeless.
Instead of sulking, this is an ideal time to get involved in things you enjoy and meet new friends and make new connections.
Set goals for the future
According to Better Up, setting goals for yourself is one of the most powerful methods of forward thinking. It is believed to alleviates feelings of grief and sparks motivation and a healthy sense of perspective.
Practice self-care
Self-care is considered as an ideal way of getting to know yourself. This could be done in several different ways, from journaling your feelings and emotions, to booking yourself for a spa day or attempting something daring.
The idea is to find what works for you.
Also see: Simple mind-calming activities
