with Natalie caine

July 13, 2009 | by Natalie Caine | No Comments

I think the overall vote for a giveaway would be…

So what came to you when you read that?  You can post it here or privately email me, Natalie@emptynestsupport.com

Here is a list of things I have heard from empty nesters when I ask them that during a consultation or group.

1.  Fear of trying something new
2.  Need for my children to check in during the week
3.  Isolating
4.  Not being vulnerable by asking for help and saying I am hurt
5.  Need to balance. It isn’t real or actually exciting to live a life without the roller coaster.
6.  Not making time to assess if I am having fun, making changes I know I need to make, not seeking professional help
7.  Getting caught in the “I am getting too old to …travel, seek new adventures, new work, new friendships, new volunteering, the arts.
8.  Give up the need for a guarantee that the event, new job, relationship, diet, etc is a sure thing.
9.  Unrealistic expectations
10. My children’s stuff they left behind. Don’t want to be a storage bin anymore.
11. Clothes that don’t fit.
12. Magazines
13. Everything in the den
14. Nagging
15. Not going to an event because I don’t want to drive in the traffic
16. Anger  that has been there for too long
17. Being critical of myself and others…control freak
18. CD’s we never listen to
19. My best ever chocolate chip cookie recipe so you will hire me for Food Network.
20. Habit of eating in the car.
I was surprised so many women, like myself, like to clean when stress is high. We figured out why it works:  it is physical, it gives immediate gratification, and it makes us feel productive.

Do you clean when stress is high?  I have not found that to be true for men.

I know I say it over and over, but it is so valuable to hear what others are thinking and going through that have a common thread with you. Freeing for sure!

Still my two strengths and hope elixirs are CURIOSITY and COMPASSION. I will continue to pass those reminders to you and have you say what your strengths and hope elixirs are.

Email me and let me know what you need these days. My hope in creating Empty Nest Support Services six years ago was that no one goes through this major life transition alone, so don’t be shy or uncertain, just email your NEEDS, QUESTIONS, IDEAS.  We are an ongoing community.

Take care,
Natalie
Toll free 800-446-3310
natalie@emptynestsupport.com
www.emptynestsupport.com

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