Plan Ahead for the Empty Nest

Thursday, November 4, 2010 by Stephen Elliott
Some parents are unbelievably giving and loving. They sacrifice their own self advancement and self-interests for their children in a way that can bring tears to your eyes. They love their children with their all. However, these same awesome loving parents are the most vulnerable to crashing when the "empty nest" stage arrives. When the last child leaves home, or just before they leave home, a vast amount of emptiness and worry can intrude onto the giver. This loving giving parent is being forced (by life itself) into early retirement. They are rarely ready for it. So, what can you do about it? If you are a super-giving parent, you must plan ahead. By the time your last child reaches 16 years of age, make sure you "have a life". Get real busy living your life to the fullest so you won't need to be over-focused on your child's life. You will be able to let go of your child without crashing. You will be loving your child in such a way as to let them fly the nest without a heavy heart. Your child does not need to feel as if they are abandoning their needy parent.  Let yourself soar. Best wishes! Stephen Elliott, Ph.D., Psychologist, Child & Family Development

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