It is a common misconception that when kids leave home, life becomes dull and boring but for many empty nesters, this is when the real fun begins!
Suddenly, you have more time to focus on yourself and your own needs. If you’re not sure where to start, don’t worry. I am an empty nester, starting this year and I sat down and put together a list of tips to help my husband and myself thrive during this new stage of your life.
Keep reading to learn more!
1. Get involved in your community.
When you have more free time on your hands, why not use it to give back to your community? There are many different ways to get involved, whether you volunteer at a local non-profit or join a club or organization. Getting out and meeting new people is a great way to stay social and active, and it feels good to know you’re making a difference.
I have always been about philanthropy. I give back to my community, donate to my favorite charities and my and my husband’s alma mater. It enriches others and myself to know I am giving back and making an impact.
2. Take up a new hobby.
Now that you have some extra time, why not try something new? There are no rules when it comes to hobbies, so go ahead and explore! Maybe you’ve always wanted to learn how to play the guitar or knit. Or maybe you’ve been wanting to try a new sport, like sailing or hiking. Whatever it is, go for it!
Personally, I’m getting into travelling more and taking new classes to see what I like more. I’m doing all the things I couldn’t when I was busy raising our kids and growing our businesses from the ground up.
3. Spend more time with your partner.
One of the best things about having an empty nest is that you finally have more time to spend with your spouse or partner. If your kids were always running around, you may have felt like you never got to really connect. Now is the time to rekindle that relationship and enjoy each other’s company. Plan regular date nights, go on weekend getaways, or just spend more time talking, laughing, and doing things you both enjoy.
My husband and I date weekly. Not only does it keep the spark in our relationship alive but it’s also a very fun time! Life truly begins at 50!
4. Get in shape.
When you have more free time, it’s the perfect opportunity to focus on your health and fitness. If you’ve been meaning to lose a few pounds or get in better shape, now is the time to do it! Start by making small changes, like eating healthier and adding some exercise to your daily routine. You may even want to join a gym or take up a new sport.
I have always been fit but in the last few years, my son and I have made gym our thing! I’ll miss going to the gym with him but I’m grateful for those moments and am continuing in the tradition. I feel great and look great so now I have more time to work on being and feeling better.
5. Explore your creativity.
One of the great things about getting older is that you finally have the time to pursue your creative interests. Maybe you’ve always wanted to learn how to paint or write a book. Or maybe you’ve been itching to start a business. Whatever it is, now is the time to explore your creativity and see what you can achieve.
I started a YouTube channel and joined a podcast panel. It’s so fun to explore this new side of my creativity.
6. Spend more time with family and friends.
When the kids are out of the house, you may find that you have more time to spend with your parents or other relatives. You may also find that you have more time for your friends. So make sure to stay in touch and schedule regular get-togethers. You may even want to start a new tradition, like having weekly game nights or monthly movie nights.
Now that I have a grandson, I enjoy spending time with him and just vibing with family and friends. It has always been a priority for me to enjoy my family. Nothing has changed there.
7. Travel more.
One of the best things about getting older is that you finally have the time and freedom to travel. If you’ve always wanted to see the world, now is your chance! You may want to start small by taking a few weekend trips. Or you may want to plan a longer vacation, like a month-long trip to Europe. Wherever you go, make sure to take lots of pictures and create amazing memories.
This year, I think I visited over 10 countries and I have my sights set on more!
8. Make your home a haven.
When the kids are out of the house, you finally have the chance to make your home exactly the way you want it. If you’ve been wanting to redecorate, now is the time! You may also want to focus on making your home more comfortable and inviting. Add some cozy throws and pillows, light some candles, and put up some family photos. Whatever you do, make sure your home is a place you love to be.
Decorating is a passion for me. I am looking forward to spending more time mixing up my abode to match the season
9. Focus on your career.
If you’ve been wanting to advance in your career, now is the time to focus on that goal. With more free time on your hands, you can finally put all your energy into reaching the next level. Whether it’s getting a promotion or starting your own business, go for it!
10. Enjoy your life!
One of the best things about getting older is that you finally get to relax and enjoy your life. After years of working hard and taking care of others, you deserve to sit back and relax. So make sure to schedule some time for yourself every day. Whether it’s reading a good book, taking a walk, or just taking some time to reflect,
xoxo
