What next?

The moment when children grow up can be surprising. For years, your life revolved around their needs, plans, emotions, and everyday life. And then suddenly—silence. You knew that this moment would come when your children moved out of the house, and you dreamed of time for yourself, of space undisturbed by anything. However, when that time came, the question arose: “What next?”

Think of it as an opportunity to try something new and unknown that can give your life new meaning.

For years, you were mostly a mother. You still are, but now you can be a different type of mother—from a distance. Build a relationship with your now-adult child based on trust and partnership. This opens up space to reclaim those parts of yourself that have been patiently waiting in the background. You can ask yourself, “What have I been missing so far?” “What would I like to do just for myself?” Perhaps this is the moment to return to the things you once loved: painting, dancing, traveling, learning a language, writing, sports. Or maybe you will discover something completely new. The maturity we so often fear gives us the courage that is often lacking in youth. After 40 and 50, development is no longer about “becoming someone.” It’s about being more yourself. This is a time when you can decide what you want to nurture and what you want to leave behind.

When children become adults, relationships with partners, friends, and above all with oneself take on new meaning. This is a good time to:

•    meet new friends

•    learn how to set boundaries

•    maintain relationships that give you energy

Maturity brings something that cannot be overestimated: freedom of choice. You no longer have to live according to other people’s schedules. You can create your own. When your children are grown up, life doesn’t slow down. It switches from “care” mode to “creation” mode. This is the time when many women embark on their most ambitious projects: they change jobs, start businesses, write books, travel, and learn new things.

It’s building on the experience, wisdom, and strength you already have. It’s a stage where you can finally ask, “Who do I want to be in this version of my life?” And start living.