Myriam interviews Sarah Metzger of Vista Coaching

“In my personal life I was happily married, raising two amazing girls who were quickly getting ready to leave home and move on to college. I started to panic because I knew this would be a challenging and scary transition in my life. I was a mom for so many years, who would I be without that daily identity? At the same time, I was feeling restless in the classroom and I didn’t feel like teaching was the right fit anymore. I had that “oh shit” moment where I didn’t know who I was or what I wanted to do anymore. It was frightening and uncomfortable. After talking with the wise souls in my life, I was able to realize that this was a moment of transformation and could be exciting, empowering and fulfilling for me! I was no longer dreading this but looking forward to the challenge. I got down to the business of metamorphosis.” – Sarah Metzger

Note: Empty nest syndrome isn’t a clinical diagnosis. Instead, empty nest syndrome is a phenomenon in which parents experience feelings of sadness and loss when the last child leaves home. Although you might actively encourage your children to become independent, the experience of letting go can be painful.