Are you gearing up for your very first Empty Nest Christmas? Or perhaps you’re a seasoned Empty Nester who is looking for fresh, new ideas that will help you make the most of this holiday season?
When we experienced our first Christmas as Empty Nesters, it was jarring—we had to work through all sorts of conflicting emotions. We felt the freedom of being able to do whatever we wanted, but this was mixed with the sadness of not gathering with all our children and their families.
Now that we have a few Empty Nest Christmases under our belts, we wanted to share what we’ve learned, how we’ve grown, and the key principles you can use to navigate your next Empty Nest Christmas with grace and confidence.
In this episode, you’ll hear:
- Various emotions you may encounter and how to deal with them
- Touching stories from fellow listeners
- What to let go of vs. what to hold on to
- And much more!
We hope this conversation is helpful as you set new traditions for your family!
Resources mentioned in this episode:
My Key Takeaways:
1) Be prepared to navigate many emotions. An Empty Nest Christmas comes with joyful feelings like freedom and relaxation. But it also comes with hard emotions, like loneliness, nostalgia for past traditions, and even boredom. You may even feel left out if you’ve chosen not to gather with extended family at all this Christmas. Whatever emotions rise up in your heart this holiday season, know that they are all completely normal. Expect these emotions to come and accept them with grace rather than trying to push them down.
2) You have permission to have a life outside of your kids. From the time our children are born, much of our lives revolve around meeting their needs, taking them to their sporting events, staying up into the wee hours of the night to offer comfort when they are sick, and more. But now that your children are grown up, you have permission to have a life apart from them. You might rediscover an old hobby you didn’t have time for previously or finally take your dream vacation with your spouse. It’s perfectly okay (and healthy!) to have hobbies, friends, and interests that no longer revolve around your children.
3) There is a season for everything. Nothing lasts forever, and during this new season of life, it’s important to know which things we should hold on to and what to let go of. Hold on to new rhythms and the joy of doing your own thing. But be willing to let go of old traditions and opinions that no longer serve you in this season.
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