As tedious as parenting is, we all enjoyed it. Even if you don’t think so, you will certainly miss your teenage child when he left for college. But missing him might not be the only concern here, it might be the beginning of another lifestyle that you might not have prepared for.
When your adult kid leaves for school it will likely trigger a mixed feeling. Now you are alone and have all of the space to yourself. No more disturbances. But loneliness may also be a challenge you are not prepared for. The question will be what do you do next with your time and space?
The answer might not be farfetched, especially if you have had a list of things you would love to do before. This might just be the opportunity of achieving them. But if it has never crossed your mind that one day you will be alone, the house will be without your kid and those numerous things the child has outgrown, then your transition may be strange to you. However, now might be a good time to start afresh. While you think about how to occupy yourself in this new era of yours, these pieces of advice may help.
It’s Never too late to discover yourself: Don’t think you are old and can’t start a new hobby or profession. Now you have more time for yourself and there are many things you can do with it. So, first, sit down and evaluate yourself. Is there something parenting had hindered you from doing? Now you have all the time to do it. It’s never too late to chase a new dream. You can still start anything from the scratch.
It’s Never Too Late to Learn Also: If you need information or a specific education about that thing you are passionate about, know that it can never be too late to learn. Don’t hesitate to ask or to seek professional advice. Even if it is just about how to cope with your new life, you might be surprised that there will be many people out there that will be capable and willing to help you. Get all the info you need for your new life. Buy books that discuss issues on the new phase of life you are just entering. Visit relevant websites, talk to people with similar experiences. All that will help you shape your new life in a way that will make you happy.
Make a Decision: After getting all the information and advice you need, remember it is still your decision to make. No one will decide for you what will make you happy. So, it’s time to decide, but be realistic. Put all factors into consideration. Consider the financial aspect, the time that whatever you plan to do will consume. Also, consider how it may affect any other person close to you.
Get Emotional, if necessary, but be in control: This is not how you have been all the while. So, it is normal to get emotional sometimes. Just don’t lose your focus. You may mourn whatever you feel you have lost, but also embrace the new opportunities the change presents.
It is normal at this time to have a mixed feeling of sadness and happiness. Feelings of loneliness and productivity. No matter how you feel, just ensure you don’t let it stop you from moving forward.
Be Happy: That is the most important thing. Think about yourself and your happiness. Know for sure that it will all work out well. Trust yourself and have full confidence in your ability. Make yourself comfortable as you begin a new chapter of your life. The ultimate aim of it all is to ensure you are happy in this new phase of your life.
With Gratitude and Love
Dewvy