Navigate the transition after kids leave home and rediscover who you are beyond parenthood
For years, your life revolved around your children. Now the house is quiet. You should feel relieved, but instead you feel lost. You miss the chaos, the purpose, the daily presence of the people you love most.
You look at your partner and wonder who you are as a couple without kids in the house. You have time for yourself but forgot what you used to enjoy. You are proud your children are independent, but you did not expect this ache.
Journaling creates space to process this significant transition. To grieve the end of active parenting while celebrating what comes next. To rediscover interests and dreams. To build a new identity that includes but is not limited to being a parent.
Rediscover who you are beyond your role as an active parent
Reconnect with your partner and rebuild your relationship
Process the sadness of children leaving, even when you are proud
Explore interests, travel, and dreams you deferred while raising kids
Navigate the new relationship with your adult children
Find new sources of fulfillment and contribution
Get started with these example prompts
What do you miss most about having kids at home?
What are you excited to do now that you have more time?
How has your relationship with your partner changed?
What did you used to enjoy before you had children?
Write about a moment when you felt proud of who your child has become.
What kind of relationship do you want with your adult children?
The best time to journal as an empty nester is when you can process this transition and explore who you are becoming.
Enjoy the peaceful mornings and reflect on this new phase of life
Process your emotions after connecting with your adult children
Explore what you want to do with your newfound freedom
Process the day and the emotions that come with a quieter home
Plan adventures, goals, and dreams for this chapter of life
The best journaling practice is one that fits your life. Experiment with different times to find what works for you, and remember that even 5 minutes of reflection can make a difference.
Explore our full library of relevant prompts
Describe a moment from your past that shaped who you are today.
Who in your life brings out the best in you? What do they do?
What is something you believe about yourself that you want to be true this year?
What is one thing you learned about yourself last year?
What are you curious to learn or explore this year?
What relationship in your life would you like to nurture this month?
What is one thing you want to say yes to this year?
Write about a time when you surprised yourself with your own resilience.
When was the last time you tried something for the first time?
How have your priorities shifted in the past year?
What conversation or connection are you looking forward to this week?
What skill or ability do you have that you once thought was impossible?
Explore prompts by these themes
Get your personal Moments number. Text your thoughts. Build a timeline of your journey.