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111: Christine, My Child Isn’t in College, Can You Still Help Me❓

111: Christine, My Child Isn't in College, Can You Still Help Me❓

Hello, my ah-mazing empty nest friend, 

Believe it or not, non-empty-nest humans listen to my podcast!

What?

Yep!

Since I create these episodes with someone in mind who isn't quite yet in the empty nest, this makes sense! Sure, many of my examples are empty nest specific, but you can change them to apply to your current circumstance.  Empty nest or not, thanks for listening, my beautiful friend!

Coach Christine,

Your Empty Nest Coach

"... the lessons I teach are life lessons. Whether your child is heading to college, the armed services, an apartment out on their own, off to get married, or if they are only seven years old and it just hit you that they will leave one day, I’m here for you."

Take a listen or read the full transcript at the bottom of this post.

⇓⇓⇓ More goodies below, too! Scroll down ⇓, so you don't miss anything! ⇓⇓⇓

🎙No empty nest? You can still listen to the Your Empty Nest Coach podcast! You don't even have to tell anyone. 😉 Empty Nest or not, this is good stuff! #EmptyNest  #Podcast #WomenEmpoweringWomen  #NoEmptyNest #YouCanListen 💚

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GPS Support Flock Member?

Click here to discuss this episode with the flock. 💬

This Episode is Brought To You By

What You Will Learn in this Episode 

  • Why It Makes Sense That Not-So-Empty-Nesters Enjoy My Podcast
  • If This is You, How to Choose Specific Episodes

Quick Tip Submission

Episode Questions for You To Consider

  1. Is the empty nest part of your life at the moment?
  2. Do you see how what I teach can benefit anyone?

💚  Send audio feedback to Coach Christine now:   https://www.speakpipe.com/EmptyNestCoach  or call/text to 920-LIFEWIN (920-543-3946).

First Time Here? Try This Order of Episodes

Episode Resources

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Yes! Show Me My Options

FULL TRANSCRIPT: 

Episode 111 of the Your Empty Nest Coach Podcast


00:00:00

Christine:  Hi, it’s Coach Christine. This is my podcast, it’s the Your Empty Nest Coach Podcast, and today I answer the question; Christine, My Child Isn't in College, Can You Still Help Me?  And this is episode number 111.  I work with mothers of high school students and beyond, who are in the trenches with sad and possibly, overwhelming thoughts about what their life will look like when their baby heads to college and begins to leave the nest.  My clients’ big question is what will I do with my time?  Is this you?  I’ve been there, and I get it.  Empowering you to write the next jaw-dropping, amazing chapter in your life is my passion.  I am energized by leading you in the process of exploration and am thrilled when you unlock the power that lies within you.  This podcast is my gift to you.

00:00:49

Hello, my empty nest friend and CEO of Your Life!  What amazingness are you up to, today?  I’d love for you to share it with me.  Visit me over on Instagram @emptynestcoach or send me an email: podcast@youremptynestcoach.com and tell me what amazingness you are up to, and this is your amazingness.  You could have finished writing a novel, or you could have managed to get out of bed despite not wanting to.  We celebrate all wins here, and I get excited when you win.  So don’t hesitate to share them with me.  Woo hoo!  Let’s do this. 

00:01:28

Thanks!  Thank you!  It’s time to thank our sponsor.  This episode is sponsored by my membership community, The GPS Support Flock; Your Flight to Success in the Empty Nest.  If you are ready to find the GPS of your life, sign up to receive an immediate and free download of my PDF, "How to Find Yourself in the Empty Nest," our GPS Life Principles document.  You will also have the opportunity to learn about our community.  See the link in this episode's show notes or fly on over to my website, YourEmptyNestCoach.com.  Click the GPS Support Flock button.  See you soon!   

00:02:17

Someone reached out to me recently for some help with empty nesting, and made the mention “but my child isn’t in college.”  We talked back and forth a bit and hopefully she found my insight helpful.  So here’s the thing, I do have a lot of episodes focused on college, and this is why: if I can catch some of you mamas before you hit the super empty nest permanent years, and am able to help you prepare for the transition, then I feel like I will have been able to assist not only you, but also your child or children, and potentially others in the house.  If you are feeling peaceful about where you are as your child leaves, then you will be able to enjoy the moments leading up to it more. 

00:02:59

Now, all that being said, the lessons I teach are life lessons.  Whether your child is heading to college, the armed services, an apartment out on their own, off to get married, or if they are only 7 years old and it just hit you that they will leave one day, I’m here for you.  If your child left two, ten or twenty years ago, and you're still having some trouble adjusting, I’m here for you.  Here’s the underlying message I want you to hear; I’m here for you.  Guess what? If you are a father, I’m here for you!

00:03:34

Most of my episodes that are specific to college are labeled appropriately in the title.  You may find many of my examples are around college situations, but adjust the who, what and when to your own life, and see how that works for you. And if you would like to give me an example for future episode topics, I’m always open to your ideas.  I’m creating this for you, anyway.  Well, to be perfectly honest, part of me creates it for my daughter, too, should I not be on this earth when she hits these years.  And also, while I don’t listen to every episode back all the time, but sometimes when I’m stuck on something, I’ll go, wait, I did an episode on this, and I’ll find that it’s actually crazy helpful.  Isn’t that weird?  When you think about it, I create an episode motivated by my future self. My future self then goes back and gains insight from my past self.  Whoa.  It might be a little bit too much?

00:04:32

Anyway, back to college or not. In the end, all of us, mother, or not a mother, young or old, rich or poor, are left alone with our thoughts, and our thoughts about the happenings in our life have more power than most of us realize.  I talk about this in my episodes, of course, and it is the underlying principle in all that I teach, so if you are a single 35-year-old male who enjoys my podcast, thanks for listening.  If you are a 65-year-old woman who entered empty nesting 15 years ago and is still figuring out how to navigate it all, thanks for listening.

00:05:09

Adjust the examples as needed, pick the episodes as needed,  and I would love to know that you are listening.  Send me a message, you’ll make my day.  I guess you could be wondering if you are welcome in our GPS Support Flock. Honestly, if you like this podcast then yes, of course! You are welcome to join! In the flock, I am able to assist with accountability, I’ll cheer you on and I have a place where you can ask anonymous questions.  Have a question? Just let me know!

[Music] 

00:05:36

The questions I have for you in this episode are, one, is the empty nest part of your life at this moment?  And two, do you see how what I teach can benefit anyone?

[Music]

00:05:49

Rachel:  Hi, Rachel Lankester here, Midlife Mentor from MagnificentMidlife.com.  My top tip today is to remember what you’re told on the airplane.  Always tend to your own mask first, before helping someone else.  If you don’t look after yourself, you’ll do a pretty poor job of looking after anyone else.

[Music]

00:06:12

Do you have a Quick Tip to share with my listeners? Don’t forget to share it with me.  Information on how to do so is in this episode’s show notes.  Well, that’s a wrap.  Guess what?  You are amazing!  See ya!

[Bloopers]

00:06:55

Still listening?  As I gather my thoughts for this script, it is August 29, of 2020. Our world just lost the beautiful, creative  soul of Chadwick Boseman from his battle with colon cancer. My husband was diagnosed with colon cancer, stage III at age 38.  So, it’s about the same age.  Working through the treatments is no joke. People do it; so many people we’ll never know about, and some you’ll know everything about.  It sucks.  Cancer sucks.  Death sucks.  I mention Chadwick Boseman and colon cancer, today, because, well any time colon cancer is in the news, it hits home for our family.  And please don’t think for a minute that you can’t get it because you aren’t older than 50, obviously, it happens, so don’t ignore symptoms. Get to your doctor if you have any doubts and trust your gut if you feel something isn’t right. I’ll link to resources on colon cancer in my show notes. 

[Music]

[End]


Posted on

110: How are you doing with 2020❓

110: How are you doing with 2020❓

Hello, my ah-mazing empty nest friend, 

How are you doing? Let's check in. 

Coach Christine,

Your Empty Nest Coach

"Any time our life is challenged we have an opportunity.  An opportunity to hide, an opportunity to grow, an opportunity to rise to the challenge, and opportunity to dig deep within ourselves -  to question beliefs that we thought were “right” but maybe it is time to look at the world with new eyes."

Take a listen or read the full transcript at the bottom of this post.

⇓⇓⇓ More goodies below, too! Scroll down ⇓, so you don't miss anything! ⇓⇓⇓

🎙Coach Christine shares an activity you can do when your mental energy is being drained. 💚 Grab a piece of paper and a writing utensil! #EmptyNest  #Podcast #WomenEmpoweringWomen  #EmptyNestSyndrome #EmptyNestMom #EmptyNestTransition

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GPS Support Flock Member?

Click here to discuss this episode with the flock. 💬

This Episode is Brought To You By

What You Will Learn in this Episode 

  • To Consider Challenges as Opportunities
  • An Activity to do When You Feel Your Mental Energy is Being Drained
  • To Consider Transferring Your Thoughts Onto Paper

Quick Tip Submission

Episode Questions for You To Consider

  1. How are you handling 2020?
  2. Has 2020 provided any pleasant surprises to you?

💚  Send audio feedback to Coach Christine now:   https://www.speakpipe.com/EmptyNestCoach  or call/text to 920-LIFEWIN (920-543-3946).

First Time Here? Try This Order of Episodes

Episode Resources

Subscribe To This Podcast

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Want to get notified of new episodes directly on your phone? Subscribe to this podcast using your favorite app!

Yes! Show Me My Options

FULL TRANSCRIPT: 

Episode 110 of the Your Empty Nest Coach Podcast


00:00:00

Christine:  Hi!  I am Coach Christine and you are listening to the Your Empty Nest Coach podcast.  This is episode number 110 and I’ve titled it “How Are You Doing With 2020.”  I work with mothers of high school students and beyond, who are in the trenches with sad and possibly, overwhelming thoughts about what their life will look like when their baby heads to college and begins to leave the nest.  My clients’ big question is what will I do with my time?  Is this you?  I’ve been there, and I get it.  Empowering you to write the next jaw-dropping, amazing chapter in your life is my passion.  I am energized by leading you in the process of exploration and am thrilled when you unlock the power that lies within you.  This podcast is my gift to you.

00:00:46

Hello, my empty nest friend and CEO of your life! If this is your first time here, CEO in my world stands for Conscious Effective Olympian.  Doesn’t that sound lovely?  This episode is going live at the end of August in 2020, and if you are listening to it right around that time, I want to say that I hope from the bottom of my heart that your family is healthy and safe.  I walk through an exercise to help you when you can’t seem to get out of a funk, if you will, in today’s episode.  If you want to share anything with me or my listeners, I always invite you to share your thoughts, or life tips, with us.  You may do this either through SpeakPipe or my Google Voice number.  You’ll find the information to do this in the description of this episode: on Apple Podcasts click “Details”; on Spotify click “See More”; on Overcast press the I for information button. Get the idea? You also may send me an email at podcast@youremptynestcoach.com.  Of course,  I always have full show notes with links to anything I discuss in the episode, and a full episode transcription on my website.  Those reside at YourEmptyNestCoach.com/P (for podcast) and 110 (for this episode’s number).  (YourEmptyNestCoach.com/P110)  I can’t wait to hear from you!

00:02:03

Thanks!  Thank you!  It’s time to thank our sponsor.  This episode is sponsored by my membership community, The GPS Support Flock; Your Flight to Success in the Empty Nest.  If you are ready to find the GPS of your life, sign up to receive an immediate and free download of my PDF, "How to Find Yourself in the Empty Nest," our GPS Life Principles document.  You will also have the opportunity to learn about our community.  See the link in this episode's show notes or fly on over to my website, YourEmptyNestCoach.com.  Click the GPS Support Flock button.  See you soon!   

00:02:45

My beautiful, amazing friend, how are you doing?  No, really, how are you doing?  Most of us started 2020 ready to take on the world.  We had goals, plans, things to look forward to, and now, well, your goals may have been put on hold, your health may not be great, your plans may have all been canceled, your things to look forward to might have been, too.  How are you doing with all of that?  Any time our life is challenged we have an opportunity; an opportunity to hide; an opportunity to grow; an opportunity to rise to the challenge; and opportunity to dig deep within ourselves, to question beliefs that we thought were “right” but maybe it is time to look at the world with new eyes; an opportunity to live in the now, the present moment; or to run from it, thinking that we’ll be able to escape from what is by looking toward what isn’t yet or what could-have-been.

00:03:53

If you are doing well, I want you to pat yourself on the back. No, really, I mean it. After you pat yourself on the back, reach out to someone today, by phone, video call, email or from six feet away, who may not be doing so well. Share your wellness and energy with them by spending time with them.  If you aren’t doing well, are you feeling like you are in a bit of a funk? Well, that is certainly understandable, and no one is going to fault you. Now, while one episode of this podcast isn’t a cure all by any means, after all, I have a membership program and a lot of episodes that slowly cover topics to help you, but today I want to offer an exercise to use when you feel like you are stuck in a bit of a funk. Maybe you have already worked through your feelings, or you know what you are feeling but you can’t seem to get to the other side. In that case, let’s give yourself permission to let go of the feeling for a few minutes and start there. 

00:04:54

Start by asking yourself what is my biggest pain point?  Am I mourning something?  Am I angry that people aren’t behaving the way I expect them to?  Am I upset with myself that I’ve gained some weight through all of this?  What is it for you?  On an ideally, blank piece of paper, write down your top area of focus right now.  Then write three emotions that come with that focus.  As you write down the thing that is taking your mental energy right now, I’d like you to imagine as if the emotions are going through your writing utensil, or your fingers, should you choose to do this on a keyboard, and let the emotions fall out onto the paper.  Got it?  Using your imagination, let that area of focus move to the paper, along with the three emotions you have identified.  Now, turn the paper over.

00:05:51

For five minutes, I want you to imagine what your life is like without that focus and those emotions.  Don’t worry about why you aren’t focused on it.  Don’t concern yourself with the fact that things haven’t been resolved with it.  It is five minutes.  It isn’t going anywhere and guess what, you wrote it down on the paper and will remember it when you turn it back over.  This allows you to imagine for five minutes who you are without that emotional energy.  Take five minutes to be present; to take in sounds, colors, smells, and beauty that you hadn’t seen when your focus was different.  Only for a few minutes.  Try taking really deep breaths.  I’d like you to look at that time as a transference.  Give that paper your emotions in those moments.  Actually, give me a moment, I’m going to try this out myself. 

[Music] 

00:09:52

Okay, I’m back, and interestingly enough, my five minutes had me away from this computer. The Universe timed it so that my husband and I met in the hallway for a lovely impromptu conversation.  I made my coffee and took time to smell it a bit more.  I was a bit more present as I did all of it.  My timer went off, hubby got it for me, he was upstairs, so I inadvertently gifted myself with some extra time. 

00:10:15

Now that I’m back, I don’t want to turn over the piece of paper at all, and I have more clarity on the work I was about to do on this episode.  I do mention writing our thoughts and feelings down on paper often, because the act of doing it makes us aware of the thought-deliveries that we are allowing to take up space in our mind.  Those take mental energy away from other things.  This is all fine if you are aware of it and know what your mind is focused on, consciously choosing it.  But if you don’t periodically check in on your thought-deliveries, well, if you are a regular listener, you know the drill, then your Protector is bossing you around with them.  What fun is that?  Well, for me, personally, it is no fun at all. 

00:10:57

Now back to you.  After the five minutes, you have options.  I’m not even going to tell you what to do.  I want you to see where you are led.  Trust your instincts here.  You may ignore that piece of paper, or heck, you may turn it over and have a new sense of clarity that you didn’t have five minutes ago.  Let me know how it goes for you. Email me at podcast@youremptynestcoach.com or message me over on Pinterest or Instagram.  You’ll find me on both platforms @emptynestcoach, that’s my podcast title without the “your” in the beginning.  You should know by now that my goal isn’t for you to rely on me, Coach Christine, to have the answers for your life.  I’m here to coach you to find your internal GPS that will navigate you through the journey of your life.  Oh my goodness, I can’t wait until you discover that for yourself!  When you notice your thought-deliveries, train your Protector well and have a good sense of what needs to be in your life’s toolbox, oh, my friend, I’m seriously getting chills just thinking about it. The things you’ll be able to do!

00:12:04

If you would like to dig into more detail with any of this, if you need accountability, or want me to just cheer you on, all of this is included in my GPS Support Flock!  [Music]  The questions I have for you in this episode are one, how are you handling 2020?  And two, has 2020 provided any pleasant surprises for you?

00:12:31

Christine?  Christine?  Christine, where are you?

Have you ever considered creating a podcast? A podcasting tip that I submitted was included in a recent article titled “How to Create a (Successful) Podcast Channel: 20+ Expert Tips.”  The link to the full article is in my show notes.  I invite you to check it out!

[Music]

00:12:58

Anne shared the tip you are about to hear with me for the month of August way back at the beginning of the year, before COVID was known about.  She sure thinks ahead!  While colleges your child may be looking at may not have much social life this semester, seeing how they are handling it is a great thing to research. Thanks for sharing your tip with us, Anne! 

00:13:18

Anne:  Hi!  This is Anne from Parent’s Guide to the College Puzzle.  My quick tip for today is if your high school senior’s having trouble paring down the list of colleges to arrange for eight to twelve schools, consider these sometimes overlooked aspects of a college.  Check out the social life.  What is there to do, both on and off campus, when students aren’t in class?  Which colleges offer the intramural sports clubs or volunteer programs your future freshman wants to participate in?  How’s the weather?  If your teen hates snow, they’ll be happier at colleges with milder climates, and the reverse is true.  A student who likes winter sports, will want colleges in places where they can participate in these activities.

00:13:52

Confirm which majors and minors are offered.  If a college doesn’t have the major and any potential majors your student is interested in, take it off the list.  Remember to look at the available minor options, too.  Find out the male to female ratio.  Colleges tend to have more girls than boys, but some campuses are skewed much higher one way or the other.  This might make a difference to your teen.  How big is Greek life?  Sororities and fraternities dominate at some campuses and play a minor role at others.  For kids who have a preference either way, this can be important.  Who else goes there?  Your school’s Naviance account or your student’s guidance counselor can show you the popular colleges among graduates from your high school.  This is helpful if your teen wants to see a familiar face those first weeks on campus, or if they don’t.  Remember the final list of colleges should include two safety schools, two reach schools, and the remainder, target schools.  Good luck!

[Music]

00:14:42

Christine:  Do you have a Quick Tip to share with listeners of this podcast? I would love to include it in an upcoming episode.  See my show notes for links to submit your own audio tip.  I am just about done here. But not before I remind you, of course, that you, my beautiful friend, are amazing! 

[Bloopers]

Still listening? 

Have you received a green popsicle stick from me yet? If not, why not? I’m happy to send you one, or three! I have instructions on how to receive your green popsicle stick from me, when you download my free printable: “How To Find Yourself in the Empty Nest” resource. 

[Music]

[End]

[Music]

[End]

Posted on

109: A Glimpse of Some Tips from Inside Our Empty Nest Flock 📝

109: A Glimpse of Some Tips from Inside Our Empty Nest Flock 📝

Hello, my ah-mazing empty nest friend, 

In this podcast episode,  I share a few helpful nuggets from inside the GPS Support Flock: Your Flight to Empty Nest Success. 

Coach Christine,

Your Empty Nest Coach

"Make sure you are your biggest fan."

Take a listen or read the full transcript at the bottom of this post.

⇓⇓⇓ More goodies below, too! Scroll down ⇓, so you don't miss anything! ⇓⇓⇓

🎙Coach Christine shares a peek inside the GPS Support Flock: Your Flight to Empty Nest Success 💚 Remember to be your biggest fan! #EmptyNest  #MidlifePodcast #WomenEmpoweringWomen  #EmptyNestSyndrome #EmptyNestMom #EmptyNestTransition

Click to Tweet

GPS Support Flock Member?

Click here to discuss this episode with the flock. 💬

This Episode is Brought To You By

What You Will Learn in this Episode 

  • The Power in Getting to Know Your Future Self
  • Some Words to Say to Yourself As You Work To Discover Your Future Self

Quick Tip Submission

Episode Questions for You To Consider

  1. Do you know your future-self well?
  2. Does your future-self have anything to say to you?

💚  Send audio feedback to Coach Christine now:   https://www.speakpipe.com/EmptyNestCoach  or call/text to 920-LIFEWIN (920-543-3946).

First Time Here? Try This Order of Episodes

Episode Resources

Subscribe To This Podcast

It is FREE!

Want to get notified of new episodes directly on your phone? Subscribe to this podcast using your favorite app!

Yes! Show Me My Options

FULL TRANSCRIPT: 

Episode 109 of the Your Empty Nest Coach Podcast

00:00:00

Christine:  You are listening to the Your Empty Nest Coach podcast with Coach Christine, episode number 109: A Glimpse of Some Tips from Inside Our Empty Nest Flock.  I work with mothers of high school students and beyond, who are in the trenches with sad and possibly, overwhelming thoughts about what their life will look like when their baby heads to college and begins to leave the nest.  My clients’ big question is what will I do with my time?  Is this you?  I’ve been there, and I get it.  Empowering you to write the next jaw-dropping, amazing chapter in your life is my passion.  I am energized by leading you in the process of exploration and am thrilled when you unlock the power that lies within you.  This podcast is my gift to you.

00:00:48 

Hello, my empty nest friend and CEO of Your Life!  So, how has your week been?  I hope that your thoughts about it are positive even when the happenings in your life might not appear to be.  Do you have any wins you would like to share with us?  You know that I would love to hear them, and the other listeners of this podcast may find your win inspiring to them!  If you have a win, or a question to share with me, I invite you to share via audio, either through SpeakPipe or my Google Voice number.  You’ll find the information to do this in the description of this episode: on Apple Podcasts click “Details”; On Spotify click “See More”; on Overcast press the I for information button.  Get the idea?  You also may send me an email at podcast@youremptynestcoach.com. Of course, I always have full show notes with links to anything I discuss in the episode, and a full episode transcription on my website.  Those reside at YourEmptyNestCoach.com/P (for podcast) and 109 (for this episode’s number). (YourEmptyNestCoach.com/P109)  I can’t wait to hear from you!

00:01:53

Thanks!  Thank you!  It’s time to thank our sponsor.  This episode is sponsored by my membership community, The GPS Support Flock; Your Flight to Success in the Empty Nest.  If you are ready to find the GPS of your life, sign up to receive an immediate and free download of my PDF, "How to Find Yourself in the Empty Nest," our GPS Life Principles document.  You will also have the opportunity to learn about our community.  See the link in this episode's show notes or fly on over to my website, YourEmptyNestCoach.com.  Click the GPS Support Flock button.  See you soon! 

00:02:37

An extra thank you to SocalChris who left a five-star review on Apple Podcasts for this podcast.  The review is titled, “Christine is so much fun,” and says, “The cheer and joy just sparkles from Christine’s message through to your earbuds! I enjoy the way she looks positively at some of the hardest experiences we have as our kids become adults.”   Wow, SocalChris, thanks for the 5-star rating and review, and I’m honored you have chosen to listen to my podcast.  What great writing, by the way!

00:03:11

Now for you, my empty nest friend, in this episode, I’m sharing some bites of information that came out of the GPS Support Flock, so you could have a glimpse inside.  My first share came from a group support call.  I do not record for the first 75 percent or so of these calls and then, at the tail end, if we have a session with bites of information worth sharing with everyone, then I record a quick wrap-up call.

00:03:36

In one of these calls, a flock member asked a bit about her future self. My wrap up points were: number one, keep in mind future you.  Figure out who she is, what point in time is she in, a week; five years; ten years?  I like to think of my future-self as pretty far out because she puts this moment, this day into perspective for me.  Usually she says things like, “you won’t even remember this.”  For that reason, I like to look further out on my timeline.  The better you know your future-self (when you figure her out),  the better you really explore who she is, what she is doing, then you can use her for everything else, rather than coming to me.  A flock like this is still fantastic for reminders and to keep you on track, if you need accountability.  For example, we can remind you to check in with your future self.  In the end though, your future self knows you better than I do.  Remember too, it isn’t only about finding your future self, figuring out who they are, and trusting them, the power comes in when you actually access them.  Then you can ask your future self, “How did I handle this?”  You’ll quickly get into the mode she’s already in.  It is great fun!

00:04:57

The other thing I shared is to make sure you are your biggest fan. Be careful that you aren’t beating yourself up with your thoughts. When you do something awesome, celebrate it.  Who cares if your neighbor thinks it’s small.  This is where knowing future-you is helpful.  Maybe you feel funny about patting yourself on the back, but if I consider future me, she says “Thanks for doing that.  You’re doing a great job.  You are more on the path to meet me and discover who I am.  If you don’t do that work, I don’t get to be all I can be.”

00:05:31

Some action items and things to do and ask yourself:  how well do you know future you?  We have things that our future-selves will accomplish, maybe a list, what you think she’s accomplished, but who is the person doing the things on the list?  There is a quick free training I have about “Finding Future You,” available on my website, but the real navigation tool is the “First Steps Toward Success” program that you will find in the GPS Support Flock.  

00:06:00

Give yourself the time needed to discover your future self. 

Who are you, as you are doing that thing that you want to do?  Live in it, in detail, using your imagination, and not just for minutes but for days.  Ask yourself how does this feel different from my current life?  How will that version of me be different from this current version of me?  Then, allow for modifications. If you spend time living in a version of future-you, and find you don’t like who that is, consider it a big win. Knowing what you don’t want to do is incredibly important.

00:06:37

Some action steps to take, one, do the work.  Ask me questions along the way, that’s what this flock is for.  Two, uncover.  Three, then ask yourself, how did I get there?  My listener in a follow up chat that I had with a flock member, about her future self, this is what I told her: you will discover your amazing self again! Try this on for size: I am worth the work I'm doing to discover my amazing self.  She's hiding but I will find her! My imperfection now, as I move forward, drives me closer to my future-self, and each step, forwards, backwards, in slow-motion, or running, has a lesson for me that will allow me to level-up. I'm thankful for all of it.  I'm worth all of this, and the journey is going to be fun.

[Music]

00:07:26

Of course, if you would like to dig into more detail with any of this, if you need accountability, or want me to cheer you on, all of this is included in my GPS Support Flock where I have a full workshop on this topic, “Your Future Self.” I have worksheets and more.  The questions I have for you in this episode are, and I know I’ve asked similar questions in earlier episodes, but these are really good questions to ask yourself periodically: one, do you know your future-self well? And, two, does your future-self have anything to say to you?

[Music]

00:08:15

Christine?  Christine?  Christine, where are you?

Have you checked out my Instagram Reels yet? As of this recording, I’m having fun with them.  I don’t know if I’ll keep up with them.  They do take more time than I should allow but my future-self is giggling with me, so it’s all good. If your child listened to a lot of the Wiggles when they were younger, I have one there that you may appreciate.

[Music]

00:08:35

Today, our quick tip is the wrap-up tip that Katherine, the 5 Kilo Traveler, from New Zealand, shared with me way back before physical distancing began. So as you check-in with your future self who hopefully is able to travel freely, remember Katherine’s great tips.

00:08:53

It is time for a quick tip, advice or thoughts from a listener.  

Katherine:  I thought today I would do a recap of what I’ve mentioned so far about traveling light.  So firstly, I asked you to consider the idea of traveling light and being open to it.  Sometimes a new concept can be really out there and challenging.  But I think as empty nesters, we are open to new ideas as our family world is changing.  We need to start looking at what we can do for ourselves.  For me, I talked about taking what you need when you travel light.  I don’t want you traveling and feeling like you’ve left essential things at home.  You have to be comfortable traveling.  I mean, I take my hair straightener so that I feel good about myself.  So remember, this has to work for you.

00:09:43

My next tip was to take less.  My favorite saying is take what you need, but take less of it.  That really is a key concept when traveling light.  Take what you need, but take less of it.  That included packing a travel wardrobe that mixes and matches perfectly, swapping out heavy gear with lighter options and reducing your toiletries and cosmetics by putting them in smaller containers.

00:10:15

Then I talked about wearing your heavy or bulky gear on the plane.  Although, hopefully, after listening to the previous episode, you would have swapped those heavy items with lighter things.  Even so, you’ve got to wear something on the flight, so why not the gear that takes up the most room in your bag?  Finally, I talked about Merino and Smartwool, and my endeavor to single-handedly promote the New Zealand wool industry.  My sheep farming brother would be very impressed with me.  But seriously, Merino, with all its great qualities, is the perfect fabric when traveling light, so be open to the idea of traveling light.  Take what you need, but take less of it.  Wear your heavier or bulkier gear on your flight, and consider Merino or Smartwool.  So many ideas and so many more to follow.  Happy light travels.

[Music]

00:11:10

Do you have a Quick Tip to share with my listeners? Don’t forget to share it with me.  Information to do so is in this episode’s show notes.  And with that, I wish you a beautiful, Conscious, Effective Olympian-esque day and week ahead for you, my empty nest friend.  You should already know this, but you are amazing! 

[Bloopers]

00:11:46

Still listening?  Thanks for being you, for listening and for checking your thoughts. You are not only improving your own life but indirectly you are an example to others. Keep being amazing, my empty nest friend!

[Music]

[End]

Posted on

108: Let’s Talk About Intuition

108: Let's Talk About Intuition

Hello, my ah-mazing empty nest friend, 

Intuition. 

What are your thoughts about it? I share mine in this episode.

Coach Christine,

Your Empty Nest Coach

"My theory is that much of a human’s unsettledness, or restlessness, has more to do with not following their own intuition/guidance/GPS, than to do with the outside world.  Internal peace is life changing, and then, you know how to take the next step.  It’s so worth the discomfort to discover it.  But then, trusting it is the next big step."

Take a listen or read the full transcript at the bottom of this post.

⇓⇓⇓ More goodies below, too! Scroll down ⇓, so you don't miss anything! ⇓⇓⇓

🎙Coach Christine shares her thoughts about #Intuition 💚 and does it have anything to do with the #EmptyNest ? #MidlifePodcast #WomenEmpoweringWomen #NewEpisode #EmptyNestSyndrome #EmptyNestCoach #EmptyNestTransition

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This Episode is Brought To You By

What You Will Learn in this Episode 

  • What Coach Christine Thinks About Intuition
  • Where the Idea for This Episode Came From
  • What This Has To Do With Empty Nesting

Episode Questions for You To Consider

  1. Do you feel you have a strong intuition?
  2. What are your thoughts after listening to this episode?

💚  Send audio feedback to Coach Christine now:   https://www.speakpipe.com/EmptyNestCoach  or call/text to 920-LIFEWIN (920-543-3946).

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FULL TRANSCRIPT: 

Episode 108 of the Your Empty Nest Coach Podcast

00:00:00

Christine:  You are listening to the Your Empty Nest Coach podcast with Coach Christine, episode number 108: Let’s Talk About Intuition.  I work with mothers of high school students and beyond, who are in the trenches with sad and possibly, overwhelming thoughts about what their life will look like when their baby heads to college and begins to leave the nest.  My clients’ big question is what will I do with my time?  Is this you?  I’ve been there, and I get it.  Empowering you to write the next jaw-dropping, amazing chapter in your life is my passion.  I am energized by leading you in the process of exploration and am thrilled when you unlock the power that lies within you.  This podcast is my gift to you.

00:00:47

Hello, my empty nest friend and CEO of your life!  Thanks for being here today.  I’m recording this before my daughter heads back to college, so hopefully, by the time you get this episode in your ears, I am back home, she’s in college at the campus, and hopefully, everything’s going well.  We shall see.

00:01:12

Before we dive in, a quick reminder, that if you find yourself talking back to me at any part of this episode; if something resonates with you; or if you have a quick tip to share with my audience, please take the opportunity to leave me feedback either through SpeakPipe or my Google Voice number.  You’ll find the information to do this in the description of this episode: on Apple Podcasts click “Details”; on Spotify click “See More”; on Overcast press the I for information button. Get the idea? Of course I always have full show notes with links to anything I discuss in the episode, and a full episode transcription on my website.  Those reside at YourEmptyNestCoach.com/P (for podcast) and 108 (for this episode’s number).  (YourEmptyNestCoach.com/P108).  I can’t wait to hear from you!

00:02:00

Thanks!  Thank you!  It’s time to thank our sponsor.  This episode is sponsored by my membership community, The GPS Support Flock; Your Flight to Success in the Empty Nest.  If you are ready to find the GPS of your life, sign up to receive an immediate and free download of my PDF, "How to Find Yourself in the Empty Nest," our GPS Life Principles document.  You will also have the opportunity to learn about our community.  See the link in this episode's show notes or fly on over to my website, YourEmptyNestCoach.com.  Click the GPS Support Flock button.  See you soon!   

00:02:48

Recently Terri of Mixing Up Midlife asked on Instagram the question: “Have you made a practice of listening to your intuition, and has it served you?”  My response to Terri was, “Yes, it’s the way I stay peaceful.”  My theory is that much of a human’s unsettledness, or restlessness, has more to do with not following their own intuition/guidance/GPS, than to do with the outside world.  Internal peace is life changing, and then, you know how to take the next step.  It’s so worth the discomfort to discover it.  But then, trusting it is the next big step.

00:03:27

Now, I know Terri is interviewing someone who is a bit of an expert on intuition, so if you are curious, be sure to check out the Mixing Up Midlife podcast.  Let’s talk dictionary definition of intuition real quick.  It’s “the ability to understand something immediately, without the need for conscious reasoning.”  Or “a thing that one knows or considers likely from instinctive feeling rather than conscious reasoning.”  If you are a regular listener, Coach Christine speak of this would be that the days when your intuition is clearer to you, more than likely those are the days or moments when you have a well-trained Protector, so you are able to handle those thought deliveries in a well-curated manner.  Opening up the potential to access more of the real you and your future self, to use her as your GPS.

00:04:17

When your internal GPS is hiding behind the walls of thought deliveries that you may have in your mind, without a well-trained Protector, you’ll have a restlessness within you that you’ll want to jump to blaming on the outside world, other humans, or the circumstances of your life.  Clarity is hard to come by when you are being bossed around by your thought deliveries and your Protector.  If you haven’t already, begin to train yourself to notice those thought deliveries, my friend.  I have a bunch of episodes about that, so I’ll put those in the show notes.  

00:04:49

What does this have to do with empty nesting?  Well, let’s talk about that real quick.  Whether you are currently empty nesting or if you have a not-so-empty nest that has you in a holding pattern, if you have no clarity on how to move forward in your life, or not sure what to do with your time, generally, feel a bit lost, my guess is you have a ton of thought deliveries in your mind that keep you too busy to learn who you are outside of the roles you have had over the years.  Too busy to consider that the thought you have is optional.  Too busy to spend time alone with yourself, learning to love and accept who you are outside of the roles that you have.  Practically, what can you do?

00:05:34

Well, most of my podcast episodes are all about this.  High-level, accept the feelings that you have.  Process through them, and then work on training your Protector.  You are worth this work.  Sometimes, that internal GPS will become restless and begin to push back on you.  But what if you did the work to uncover who your future self is?  So that you could have her in view at all times, to allow that intuition to become more of a part of your everyday life.  What if?  Why not?  What do you have to lose?

00:06:09

If you are confused, or intrigued by some of my Coach Christine speak, be sure to check out the Conscious Effective Olympian, or CEO, of Your Life series of episodes for more about your Protector, your thought deliveries, and how to gain momentum in your life.  As always, links are in my show notes.

00:06:30

The questions I have for you in this episode are: Do you feel you have a strong intuition?  And, what are your thoughts after listening to this episode?  I have a feeling I may have given you more questions than answers.  That’s okay.  Let me know what they are, and I’ll do another episode.

00:06:47

Well, my empty nest CEO of your life friend, if you enjoyed this episode, I invite you to take a moment to subscribe to this podcast.  It is free, after all.  As always, I provide content to make you think. My hope is that I am able to provide you with thoughts that positively impact your life.  Empty nest or not, look, I know many of us have our children with an unplanned online education.  But keep in mind, future you is cheering you on right now.  She can’t wait for you to meet her, and she is your biggest fan.  Let her be that.  She and I want you to remember that you are amazing!  See ya!

[Bloopers]

00:07:51

Still listening?  I am not someone who enjoys sewing; however, I do kind of enjoy the challenge of figuring out how to do something well, that I truly have no natural ability for.  I mean, cutting a straight line and precise measurements -- nope.  While I can spend hours looking through code to find a bug, I have no patience for it when it comes to sewing.  I don’t know why.  But over four months -- yes, four months, I made a handful of masks for our family, and I just finished recently, making almost two weeks worth for my daughter’s college trip.  I now, and only now, feel confident that I’ll be able to make some more for myself with no issues, other than, you know, having to rethread the bobbin.  That feels good.  Sometimes doing things we don’t love and we could easily purchase, have a pay-off that isn’t felt until you’re on the other side of it.  Was it the best use of my time?  Well, that, of course, depends purely on my thoughts about it.

[Music]

[End]

Posted on

107: Empty Nest Transition Resources ⭐

107: Empty Nest Transition Resources ⭐

Hello, my ah-mazing empty nest friend, 

Here we go. Another attempt at college during a pandemic. What an adventure for all of us - whether your child is heading back to campus with face masks, symptom monitoring, physical distancing, and no group hangouts, or if they are home.

No matter the choices that your family has made, motherhood is an adventure. Empty nesting shows up in our lives a little bit differently for each of us, but in the end, we all are doing our best to navigate this thing called life. If you need help discovering your future self, I'm here for you when you are ready to get to work. 

Take deep breaths, my empty nest friend (or future empty nest friend), and do your best to enjoy the ride. 

Coach Christine,

Your Empty Nest Coach

"I thought I would do a quick rundown of resources that I have available to you as you adjust to the empty nest - and for some of you the not-so-empty-nest."

Take a listen or read the full transcript at the bottom of this post.

⇓⇓⇓ More goodies below, too! Scroll down ⇓, so you don't miss anything! ⇓⇓⇓

New Podcast Episode🎙Coach Christine shares resources she has created specifically for mothers who are having trouble adjusting to the idea of the empty nest (not-so-empty-nest, too)! 💚 #EmptyNest #NotSoEmptyNest  #EmptyNestSyndrome 

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Click here to discuss this episode with the flock. 💬

This Episode is Brought To You By

What You Will Learn in This Episode

  • Resources I Have Available to You for the Empty Nest Transition

💚  Send audio feedback to Coach Christine now:   https://www.speakpipe.com/EmptyNestCoach  or call/text to 920-LIFEWIN (920-543-3946).

First Time Here? Try This Order of Episodes

Episode Resources

Subscribe To This Podcast

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Yes! Show Me My Options

FULL TRANSCRIPT: 

Episode 107 of the Your Empty Nest Coach Podcast

00:00:00

You are listening to the Your Empty Nest Coach podcast  with Coach Christine - Episode #107: Empty Nest Transition Resources.  I work with mothers of high school students and beyond, who are in the trenches with sad and possibly, overwhelming thoughts about what their life will look like when their baby heads to college and begins to leave the nest.  My clients’ big question is what will I do with my time?  Is this you?  I’ve been there, and I get it.  Empowering you to write the next jaw-dropping, amazing chapter in your life is my passion.  I am energized by leading you in the process of exploration and am thrilled when you unlock the power that lies within you.  This podcast is my gift to you.

[intro] - be sure to use new 2020 intro: podcast creation files folder

Hello, my empty nest friend and CEO of Your Life! 

00:00:45

Tomorrow, our daughter heads off to her senior year of college, in the midst of a year that continues to challenge the resilience of all humans. As promised in my last episode, this episode is going to be a quick one. I thought I would do a quick rundown of resources that I have available to you as you adjust to the empty nest - and for some of you the not-so-empty-nest.

First I’ll start with the podcast. Many of the episodes and resources I have created are pre-pandemic, so adjust as needed, as you listen. 

00:01:20

In episode 2, I discuss Is the Empty Nest real?, and some ways to combat the sadness and loneliness - remember, you aren’t alone. I created this entire podcast for amazing humans just like you. 

In episodes 3 - 7 - I dive into how much power you are giving away in your life through the thoughts in your mind. This is a deeper series and you’ll find the concept of thought deliveries throughout my podcast episodes. 

I have episodes on specific areas such as when you aren’t a fan of your child’s major (episode 9), how to get rid of guilt (episode 18), now that you have more time together - maybe your partner is driving you crazy? (episode 25), maybe you have no idea what to do with your time ahead - then check out episode 29, or if you’re looking on how to find friends in the empty nest: episode 31.

00:02:14

I also have interviews with experts - one of my favorites for the first semester is my chat with Katy Oliveira in episode 28 where we chat about what mom should expect during the first semester in college. 

I did a not-so-empty-nest-series when the physical distancing began for our family, and the wrap up of that series you may find particularly useful if your student is staying home for all (or part) of the school year - for whatever reason.

00:02:42

Of course, I have the GPS Support Flock Membership that will quickly fill your empty nest with ideas, thoughts, and activities for you to begin to discover who you are beneath all of the roles you’ve had for the last 18 or so years. Should you be interested in learning more about those, check out my free on-demand training session: Why You Don’t Know What is Next For Your Life.

I’ve also been hanging out in Pinterest Stories lately, and have tried a few Instagram Reels - you may want to check those out. 

00:03:12

Of course, there is my website where you may search for anything I’ve discussed - that is  YourEmptyNestCoach.com. Should you be looking for quick tips and thoughts I’ve shared with others, be sure to check out my media & press page for additional interviews or posts that I’ve done on other people’s websites or podcasts - you’ll find this by clicking on Work With Christine and there you’ll find Media & Press in that sub-menu. 

00:03:37

Yes, fall 2020 is going to look different than fall 2019. That’s a given.  If you find yourself, now,  spiraling in thoughts that their school life should look different, that maybe it isn’t fair to them - or to you -  ask yourself, “why?” Why do I believe that it should it look different?  Did you get a different life-manual than I did that promises you things like the world you know isn’t going to change drastically? Yes, I am sneaking in a little bit of tough love here. But, I like to do that. Remember that when you live in the should have, you are arguing with reality. Look at what it IS, what is right now in your life, and choose to move forward. If you aren’t dead, my beautiful friend, how about you choose living in the now, rather than arguing with it and living in the should-haves. 

00:04:30

Feel those emotions, and try remembering this: PSPF - Patience for self, Self-Love, Patience for Others, and Fun: Be patient with yourself as you adjust to the next segment of your life’s journey, shower yourself with love - especially in your thoughts, have patience for your partner and other household members as they are navigating the change, too. Remember that their emotions don’t have to match yours, and don’t forget to have some fun along the way.  PSPF.

00:05:03

Okay, while you’re getting this on Friday, I’m off to enjoy the final week at home with my daughter - unless there is a last minute “hey, we’re all going all online” announcement - yeah, let’s keep it real - this is 2020.  

I think I already talked longer than I had planned. Thanks for listening, today. I appreciate you more than you know. 

00: 05:21

I was invited to chat with the amazing and wonderful Lauren Kinghorn of Inspiring Mompreneurs. It was great to connect with her, after meeting virtually online probably over a year ago . Take a listen and learn all about my grope calls - I mean group calls - yeah, nothing like getting that wrong in an interview - [giggle] - she has our chat on YouTube as well. Links, as always are in my show notes. 

00:05:58

My resilient friend, you are navigating a journey that no one could have expected a year ago. Your choices are right because they are the choices you have made - live in the now and consciously choose when you are thinking about the future -  always remembering that YOU, my beautiful friend, ARE AMAZING! Have a great day!

[bloopers]

00:06:35

Thanks!  Thank you!  It’s time to thank our sponsor.  This episode is sponsored by my membership community, The GPS Support Flock; Your Flight to Success in the Empty Nest.  If you are ready to find the GPS of your life, sign up to receive an immediate and free download of my PDF, "How to Find Yourself in the Empty Nest," our GPS Life Principles document.  You will also have the opportunity to learn about our community.  See the link in this episode's show notes or fly on over to my website, YourEmptyNestCoach.com.  Click the GPS Support Flock button.  See you soon! 

[End]