What To Do Once Your Kids Move Out

Are you an empty nester feeling a bit down? If you’re like me, you spent the majority of your adult life caring for your kids. It wasn’t always easy, but it was deeply fulfilling. Now that they’ve grown and moved away, it can feel like there’s an emptiness where your sense of purpose once was. You may find yourself with more time, but unsure how to fill it. I felt that way too—lost, lonely, and unneeded.

At the beginning of this year, I decided to focus on embracing each season of life as it comes, finding joy in the present moment rather than mourning what’s behind me. Each stage of life is just that—a season. They don’t last forever, and if we’re not careful, we can miss out on the beauty of the present. Take full advantage of this new season and find the joy it holds. Here are five things you can do to help make this new chapter one that’s filled with purpose and excitement:

1. Try Something New

When was the last time you tried something new? As we get older, it can be easy to fall into a routine, but trying something different can bring excitement and a sense of renewal. Think about something you’ve always wanted to do but never had the time for. For me, it was joining a book club. I’ve always loved to read, but when my kids were younger, I rarely had time to enjoy a good book. Now, I read daily and joined a book club. It’s been such a great way to discover new genres and meet new people. Plus, I love our weekly discussions and feel connected to a community again. It’s a small change, but it’s brought so much joy to my life.

2. Declutter Your Space / Downsize

This is a great time to declutter and reorganize your home to better fit your current needs. If you’re like me, you may have kept your kids’ rooms just the way they left them. Some people prefer to keep them that way, but I chose to repurpose the space. We turned one room into an office and the other into a guest room. While it was tough to let go of the old layout, I’ve found it refreshing to transform the space for just me and my husband. Decluttering not only makes your home feel more functional but also gives you a sense of renewal and excitement about the space you now have.

3. Exercise

Moving your body is crucial, especially as we age. Exercise doesn’t just improve our physical health—it’s also essential for our mental well-being. Movement releases endorphins, which help boost your mood and reduce stress. If you’re not used to working out, I recommend starting with something simple like walking. It’s gentle on the body but still highly effective. I started walking regularly last year, and I can’t believe the difference it’s made in how I feel. I’ve shed a few pounds, and I now walk about two miles a day without even realizing it. I aim for 10,000 steps, which is about 4.5 miles. I also listen to podcasts while walking, which helps me stay engaged and motivated. You might even want to join a walking group for a sense of community!

4. Volunteer

Volunteering is a powerful way to give back, and it can also help you find a sense of purpose in this new chapter. Serving others fills a void that often arises when we no longer have our children to care for in the same way. Whether it’s at a food bank, hospital, or homeless shelter, there’s a need for your time and energy. I joined a local organization, and through it, I’ve found meaningful friendships and a renewed sense of belonging. We work together to support our local community and also help national organizations like St. Jude. Volunteering is a great way to rediscover the joy of serving others and can be incredibly fulfilling.

5. Start a Business

Have you always dreamed of starting a business, but family responsibilities made it feel impossible? Well, now’s the time! There are so many businesses you can start from home with little upfront investment. Whether it’s opening an online boutique, starting a blog, or venturing into network marketing, there’s endless potential. You might also consider turning a hobby or passion into a side hustle. If people are getting paid to make TikTok videos or play video games, surely you can monetize something you love. The extra time you now have is a great opportunity to finally take that leap.

I hope these ideas inspire you to embrace this season of life. It can be a time of incredible growth, joy, and even new opportunities. What are you doing to make the most of this chapter? Let’s connect—I’d love to hear how you’re finding fulfillment in this new phase!