Ok...bear with me for a moment. Why am I nostalgic about Back to School when I am a parent of adult children? In June, our "baby" graduated from college and our oldest made my husband and I grandparents for the first time on 8/5/19. Back to school shouldn't mean much to me. As I cruise Facebook and Instagram, I see all the first day of school pictures and I become nostalgic and sad. Weren't my kids just standing by the front door in their new (clean) shoes, outfit, and cool new backpack? Gosh, it seems like just yesterday. Does anyone else feel a void and go into full-blown purging and organizing of the home as if Back to School sparks Back to Me?
This year has been stock full of transitions and change.
Quite frankly I like status quo and change is typically not something I embrace easily. My mothering role has certainly shifted. While it may seem strange, the simple act of de-cluttering my home in some odd way gives me space to dream and fantasize about what's next. Instead of wishing for what was, it's time to start planning and dreaming of what is to come. It's okay to give yourself time to adjust and feel the loss of your day-to-day joy of raising your children — but start to think about what you would like to do next.
Here are some questions to ponder before taking the next step on your journey.
What have you been putting off doing because you were a chef, chauffeur, caregiver, therapist, and nurse?
What did you love doing when you were younger but haven't had time to consider these past 20 years?
How might your life or gifting be an answer to prayer to someone outside of your immediate family?
I've never been one that liked the term, "empty nest syndrome". The word syndrome is synonymous with a disease or disorder. We need to embrace the middle years. Be kind as you begin this new journey for there will be grief and sadness at first, but joy is certainly attainable. If you are struggling through a life transition, please reach out to one of our amazing coaches. We are just a FREE Discovery Call away!
Kelli