It’s Time To Get Organized’s Leslie Walden is here to give you her best advice on how to get your home organized now that you are an empty nester!
Q: How can parents reorganize areas of the house now that the kids are gone?
A: Wait a bit before you reorganize closets and rooms. Give yourself time to evaluate your priorities and lifestyle, and consider what will make the most sense. A guest bedroom? A workout room? An office? The Georgia Chapter of the National Association of Professional Organizers can help.
Q: How can parents reorganize their schedules when the kids are out of the house?
A: Sort out the types of new projects you will want to participate in. On a calendar (paper or electronic), put in your working hours, meetings and other fixed obligations. Then you can fill in the remaining time with your new projects.
Q: What are some tips for adjusting to the new schedule?
A: Stay busy. Plunge into new activities. With evenings and weekends free, there is more time to do these things and more space to do it in.
Q: Is there anything parents should avoid doing with all this free time?
A: Yes. Avoid thinking and talking about the kids 24/7. Keep reminding yourself that you raised your child or children to be independent. You have achieved your goals. Enjoy your newfound freedom.
