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Preparation helps handle the 'empty nest' syndrome

Our daughter moved to the UK a month ago and I should say my husband and I have handled the 'empty nest' syndrome impressively. Preparation is of paramount importance for transitions to go well. Human nature is always weary about change, for the unfamiliar often spells 'trouble' and we try to avoid it. But the truth is that there are few things in life that are inevitable! As parents, we should relish our moments with our children when they are around us and prepare for moments when they are not around us.
As they move on, you get a lot of time on your hands. No more school runs, no extra-curricular activities to drive them to, even home chores go for a flip. And this is the time to catch-up on all those interests of your own: a garden that has not been tended to, music or cooking lessons, gyming . the possibilities are immense.
Meet up with friends, pamper yourself, sleep well, watch your favourite shows. Most importantly, this is the time to rediscover your spouse. Remember, this is just the beginning of your children's absence from home. Their lives are going to be replete with new people and experiences. Yours should be, too. Don't make your children feel guilty for going away and working towards achieving their dreams. As Khalil Gibran said, let us strive to be 'stable bows' that shoot 'arrows that go far and wide, conquering unchartered territories and making a mark.'
- Sheeba Jojo, Dubai