Empty Nest - be prepared! #emptynesters

Embracing the Empty Nest: My Journey & Tips for a Positive Transition

*Podcast will be broadcast live on YouTube strating from 25th September*

As our children grow up and leave home, we often find ourselves facing an "empty nest." It’s a bittersweet moment—filled with both sadness and opportunity. In today’s video, I’m sharing my personal experience with this transition and how I’ve turned it into a positive new chapter in my life.

From rekindling old passions to deepening relationships, there are countless ways to embrace this change and find joy in this new phase of life. Whether you’re already an empty nester or preparing for the day, I hope these tips inspire you to see the beauty in this transition.

🔔 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more content on navigating life transitions with grace and positivity!

#EmptyNest #LifeTransition #PersonalGrowth #ParentingJourney #SelfDiscovery #LifeAfterKids #NewBeginnings #PositiveLiving #emptynester

[duncansmith]

Im 54 and just experienced empty nest. My youngest of five children left for college last august. I looked forward to empty nest. I homeschooled my five children and they are all amazing adukts and now i need some time for just me and my husband. We have so many plans and goals and im ready. Ive been purging my house, i bought a smaller car, i started a book club and im planning 2 trips to take in 2025. I need to get in a little better shape but im working on it. Thank you for your inspiration!

[sharonpovroznik]

You are spot on my dear My husband and I raised 3 children, while having very demanding careers, my husband as an Oncology Nurse and myself as an Emergency Trauma Nurse, our oldest chose College and Graduate School, pursued her Masters Degree in Bio Medical Science, she is a Research Scientist and a College Professor, our 2nd child went straight into the work force, he was our only son, he works for a large construction firm, and his live of All things mechanical paid off, our youngest child joined the United States Air Force, right out of High School, she retired as a Staff Sargeant with 8 years of service, All of our kids left home at 18 to pursue their lives and dreams, but it was always hard and sad to see them go, but we were still working, and by the time they were leaving, our parents started needing more of our help, due to health concerns, my husband and I turned 62 this year, we are only discovering our lives again, We have one grand child and another one on the way, so the circle of life will keep us going, but we do not want being grand parents to be our whole lives, hope that doesn't sound bad.

[christinaroseman]

I went into depression for a good 10 years after my daughter left. Just now starting to climb my way back up and out. Your videos are a godsend. Thank you.❤

[suzy]

Yes, there is a saying that the entire job of a parent is to make yourself obsolete...it's hard but the very fact your son is so independent and confident out in the world shows that you did a good job...

[lynninmichigan]

The ABSOLUTE SILENCE was the hardest part. Where’s the giggling singing chatting? I couldn’t get over the silence. Nothing like it in my entire life.

[kristirichards]

I wasnt prepared emotionally. When our only son moved out it was really hard to realize he was moving on to a new phase of his life. However, since he moved in with his now wife and they are only ten minutes away, we cant complain. We see them often and are so blessed. And now that we are both retired, my husband and I are having a blast! The new phase of our life and the new phase of their lives have both been wonderful.

[kariturner]

You touch my heart, soul, and mind in so many ways. Thank you for this. just as a woman of 58 and trying to find my way again ❤

[WalktheLake]

One of the things I love about this channel, and there are many, is that it helps me realize I am not alone in these middle age struggles. No one likes to talk about it. There is endless conversation and commiseration between the new mothers. They don’t know what they are in for much later on lol.

[lindaelarde]

Oh yes! I'm 66... My daughter married an Aussie and fell in love with Australia...I so get it! They now live in Tasmania "Tassie"..I live in Illinois. I have a grandson there too...awesome life down in the magical kingdom! Love that they have a great life. I love your work...I cry all the time when I think of them. But I embrace my emotions, all of them and I'm good at having lots to do! I am into meditation, yoga, exercise and an optimal diet.i love online class workout videos..they pump me up! You're a gem! Thank you!

[AudreyLMcFarland]

I used to work as a Life Coach, and one of the things that would always come up, both for Mothers and Fathers, - the empty nest. Many parents, as you say, do not prepare for it. When it happens it is like a death in the family it is essentially. The life you worked for, worked at, is now over - Changed, done. Now what!? Really nice topic to discuss and great ideas! you are so inspiring!

[Julie-bqiz]

I wish someone would have told me this before my son moved out on his own! I really struggled. This wisdom would have helped me so much!

[rosanabiscardi]

So true!! My husband and I became empty nester 2 years ago, and like you said sometimes the house is really quite and stale. As we get older "change" is a little harder. Logically, i understand it is part of life and I wouldn't like it any other way. It's good for the kids to have the experience of moving out of the house and study, follow their passion. Nostalgy hits from time to time, and we need to be prepared for that. I think having a good relationship and great communication helps a bunch. Good luck to all that are in the process, it gets better!! 😘✨️

[erikachapman]

Thank you so much for this video today Gail. I look forward to reading your book and to listening to your podcast. I am 56 and appreciate your wisdom & thoughts on the empty nest & this 2nd half of life. I'm having a very hard time dealing with my empty nest - your video has lifted my spirits & inspired me. I don't have a sister but I feel a sisterhood with you and the channel.
Thank you Gail

[megannifranklyn]

I just want to cry at this.. my son is 13 and I can’t imagine not seeing him every day 😢😢😢 my daughter just moved out a few months ago and that was hard too x

[Froglet]

Also, for those of us, who unfortunately, never had a "full nest". I think this is why I love nature and animals so much! My nest is filled a little with ageing parents...finding a balance between helping but not taking away ANY of their independence. They're fiercely independent and not easy to help them. We're doing the decluttering, have to as my
folks need to downsize. It's very liberating, but Dad has kept hold of everything! It was all very neat and tidy, if you can declutter slowly, start now!

My essentials in life are nature walks, yoga, kettlebells, delicious food, good friends. I've started running Mindful, Creative Writing workshops...absolutely love running them!

Thank you Gail for your aurhentic and inspiring videos...

Transitions...yes please to more videos!

xx💚xx

[florence]

🙏thank you for sharing this reflection.🌻

[jeanineh]

This is spot on. You really are correct about having something to replace that occupation from them to a new diversion.

The hard thing is teying to remember who you were before children. I know it won't be the same, but it can guide you.

[jsuleman]

Great advice as no one ever really talks about this & acknowledging that this will eventually happen is preparation in itself.
I have been there & come out of the other side now.

[Barbara-hm]

I work full time so its different, but i agree its a big loss and a transition which takes time to get used to. I found a whole new sense of life and wonder🎉

[beckygoddard]

Your video really resonated with me. Our adult son and twin girls are grown and doing well but wow was it tough when they all left the nest. I encourage those who haven’t experienced that yet to listen to this video. Thank you for sharing.