Empty Nest Syndrome: Finding Your Purpose When the Kids Leave Home

Empty Nest Syndrome: Finding Your Purpose When the Kids Leave Home

From Wonder In The Weeds by Dr. Cristie Ritz-King

April 1, 2026 · 44 min

About this episode

Dr. Cristie Ritz-King discusses the challenges and personal growth associated with empty nest syndrome.

Are you prepared for the quiet that comes when your kids finally move out? In this episode of the Wonder and the Weeds show, I am opening up about the very real, often unspoken struggles of becoming an empty nester. It is not just about missing your kids; it is about figuring out your own identity when your day-to-day role as a manager of their schedules disappears. I am sharing my recent experiences of having my adult kids back home for spring break. I also talk about a frantic gym incident that highlighted my rusty multitasking skills , and the lingering question I keep asking myself: "What is even the point of me now?". Tune in to hear my thoughts on: The unexpected grief and loneliness of the empty nest.Why taking care of myself and having fun no longer feels selfish. Picking up new sports like golf and pickleball to get off social media and connect in real life. The absolute joy of women's sports and taking my daughters to a packed NCAA basketball tournament. How your 50s can be a time to meet your 16-year-old self again, but this time with actual love and grace. Join Our Community: Women of WonderIf you are experiencing serious symptoms and your doctor is not listening, it…

People in this episode

Host: Dr. Cristie Ritz-King

Topics covered

  • empty nest syndrome
  • identity
  • grief
  • self-care
  • women's sports
  • personal growth

Keywords

  • empty nest
  • purpose
  • identity crisis
  • self-care
  • women's sports
  • personal development
  • grief

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