Children have grown up: How to thrive with an Empty Nest?

When your last or only child leaves home, it’s easy to feel a sense of loss or emptiness.

You’re not alone — that feeling is so common it even has a name: Empty Nest Syndrome.

As a father of a grown-up son, I’ve learned a few simple truths that helped me embrace this new chapter in life.

1. Our children don’t owe us anything. We gave them life, love, and support through their childhood. Now, their lives belong to them. They have the right to make their own choices, even if we don’t always understand them. Yes, we no longer manage their schedules. And even if you were once a helicopter parent, now’s the time to land and let go.

2. Keep love and openness at the center. Let your children know that your love is constant and that they can always turn to you - to talk, to seek advice, or simply to be heard. Even the most confident young adults sometimes need a caring, non-judgmental presence who listens with love, not correction.

3. Rediscover yourself. Start shaping your own life, ideally even before your child leaves home. Explore new passions, take on a fresh challenge, or travel somewhere you’ve always dreamed of. This is your time to grow again.

   
   

You’ve done your job as a parent - and done it well. Now it’s time to live your own life fully and watch with pride as your children spread their wings.