When your child leaves for college or moves out on their own, your world can suddenly feel quieter — and a little emptier. If you’re finding yourself in that space right now, first of all, I want to say: I completely understand. The transition to an empty nest is a tender time filled with so many emotions — pride, nostalgia, joy, and, yes, even sadness. This moment is both an ending and a beginning.
Whether you’re facing a quiet house for the first time or you’re a few months (or years) into your empty nest journey, I hope this list of over 30 inspiring ideas will help you not just fill your time — but truly thrive.
Because the truth is, this next chapter can be one of your most fulfilling yet.
Below, I’ve grouped some gentle suggestions into categories to help you rediscover your sense of purpose, connection, and joy — one step at a time.
These are the things that helped me as I navigated life as a new empty nester, and I hope they help you, too.
How to Thrive with an Empty Nest: 30+ Meaningful Things to Do After the Kids Leave Home
Giving Back and Finding Purpose
If you’re longing for meaning, one of the best ways to find it is by helping someone else. Here are a few ideas:
1. Volunteer at a food bank, hospital, school, or animal shelter
2. Join a nonprofit board or committee
3. Tutor or mentor a student
4. Send kindness notes to nursing home residents
5. Babysit for a young family in need of support
6. Start a project that gives back, like sewing blankets or organizing donations
Health and Wellness
Caring for your body and mind is a beautiful way to ground yourself during emotional transitions. Here are a few ways to make the shift:
7. Try a new healthy recipe each week
8. Start walking every morning and notice the beauty around you
9. Join a yoga or fitness class — I like to begin each day with some gentle yoga moves in my pjs. It only takes about 5 minutes, but it helps keep me flexible and balanced.
10. Book that overdue physical or wellness checkup
11. Begin a gratitude or mindfulness practice
12. Get enough sleep — you deserve it!
Personal Growth and Self-Discovery
Now is a wonderful time to reconnect with you and explore what brings you joy, purpose, and curiosity. Here are a few easy ways to try something new:
13. Learn a new language with an app like Duolingo
14. Take a painting, pottery, or photography class
15. Start journaling or creative writing—your story matters
16. Meditate, pray, or explore a spiritual practice
17. Read those books you’ve been meaning to pick up — here’s a wonderful book series I love
18. Make a vision board for your next season of life
19. Start a blog or YouTube channel to share your experiences
20. Try a new hairstyle or clothing style that makes you feel radiant — just getting my roots touched up makes me feel like a new person!
Relationships and Connection
You don’t have to walk this path alone. Reconnecting with others connects you with your own heart and greater purpose. Following are a few simple ways to connect with others:
21. Rekindle date nights with your partner
22. Plan coffee dates or lunch with old friends
23. Host a small dinner or wine night with neighbors — here’s my post on How to Host a Casual Dinner Party in 10 Easy Steps
24. Send letters or care packages to your kids
25. Join a local group, book club, or church group
26. Reach out to someone else who’s also adjusting to the empty nest
Adventure, Travel and Fun
This chapter can be about saying yes to new experiences — big or small.
27. Plan a weekend getaway or a big dream trip — I’ve found that planning and looking forward to traveling is almost as much fun as the actual trip!
28. Visit local museums, coffee shops, or hiking spots you’ve never been to
29. Explore your city like a tourist
30. Try something new and unexpected like zip-lining, ballroom dancing, or paddleboarding!
31. Take a solo trip or join a group tour for women travelers
Lifelong Learning and Tech
The world is at your fingertips — literally! Here are a few ways to expand your horizons:
32. Take online classes through Coursera or MasterClass
33. Start a side hustle or Etsy shop
34. Learn to use Pinterest or Canva for creative projects
35. Digitize old photos and videos
36. Listen to inspiring podcasts or audiobooks during your walks
37. Explore your family history through genealogy websites
Final Thoughts: Be Gentle with Yourself
Even if you know the empty nest is a natural season of life, it can still catch you off guard. You might feel grief, sadness, or a loss of identity.
That’s completely normal —and, believe me, you’re not alone. (Just take a look at all the heartfelt comments, below.)
If you’re feeling stuck or overwhelmed, know that healing takes time. Reach out to a counselor, therapist, or support group if you need extra support. And remember, it’s okay to feel heartache and hope at the same time.
Above all, give yourself grace. The very fact that you’re here—seeking inspiration and nurturing your next chapter—tells me you’re already on the path to something truly beautiful. xo Jane
P.S. If your feelings of sadness, grief, and other symptoms of empty nest syndrome are severe and/or last more than a few weeks, please seek out professional help.
Looking for more ideas and inspiration? Here are a few favorite posts from Jane at Home:
Dorm Room Ideas and Inspiration: Creating a Cozy College Space with Style
What to Wear in Italy in the Fall: Packing Tips, Outfit Ideas, Weather and More
3 Days in Paris in the Fall: Where to Go and What to Wear
Italy in the Fall: What to Wear and Where to Go
Nancy Meyers Style: How to Bring the Aesthetic to Your Kitchen and Home
2025 Interior Design Trends and Home Decor Ideas You Will Love
How to Choose a Design Style that Feels Right for You
Modern Coastal Decorating Ideas for Your Home
What is Coastal Grandmother Style? (and why I love it!)
California Casual Interior Design: How to Bring Chic West Coast Style to Your Home
A Simple Guide to Mixing Metals in the Bathroom
The New Studio McGee Target Collection
Modern Bedroom Design Ideas for a Dreamy Master Suite
Modern Entryway Ideas for a Beautiful First Impression
Beautiful Living Room Decorating Ideas
Modern Dining Room Ideas for Beautiful Gatherings
Front Porch Styling, Decor and Planter Ideas
