Empty Nester to Full Life

I spent the last two decades worrying, caring, and nurturing those precious little people, and then they moved out. This is what is supposed to happen.

Why does it hurt so much?

The term “empty-nester” perfectly captures the whirlwind of emotions and the ache in my heart, especially intensified during the isolation of the Covid era.

My identity and purpose were defined by being their mom. My boundaries were blurry, and my thoughts and emotions revolved around them. Navigating this new phase was challenging—dealing with a flood of feelings, fears, and adjusting to a different role.

The grief and loss were overwhelming; I felt lost, unsure of my purpose or a reason to get out of bed each morning. I longed for my old life back; being a mom had shielded me from confronting my own past, masking old wounds.

I think for most of us, when we become mothers, we often set aside or forget parts of ourselves, including our passions, as our children become our top priority. 

Even though it may feel like it at times, your life is not over. There will be a time, not too far off in the future, where you will begin to look at things differently. You’ll appreciate the quiet moments, the house staying clean (LOL), and the time you have for yourself. 

For me being a mom has been the most fulfilling role I've ever had.

I still cherish being their mom; it's just evolved into a more mutual relationship where we give and receive from each other.

We choose to spend time together, and I cherish every moment of that. I've also grown to appreciate my time apart from them.

Time, self-expression, support, and self-discovery were the tools I used to heal and begin looking forward, rather than living in the past.

It is possible to have a full life and feel joy again.