Your Senior Journey
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Surprising Time Management Tips for Empty Nesters Seeking More Joy
Hello, and welcome to 'Surprising time management tips for empty nesters seeking more joy'. In this article, I want to move past the usual routines and show you how to manage your time in a way that feels energizing, meaningful, and truly your own.
You’ve probably heard the usual advice: stick to a routine, set goals, use planners, keep a to-do list, and pick up a new hobby.
And honestly? Those are great strategies! I’ve even talked about some of them before in my articles on reinventing yourself after 50 and coping with empty nest syndrome. They work, they bring structure - but do they spark excitement? Do they make you feel alive, fulfilled, and truly free?
Time for Something New – Move Beyond Traditional Time Management
That’s what this article is about. I want to take time management to the next level and show you a different way - one that doesn’t just help you get things done but makes you feel good while doing it.
Because let’s be real: after years of schedules revolving around everyone else, we finally have time to breathe. And yet, somehow, we still feel the pressure to "manage" it in a way that feels like a chore.
Not this time! We’re flipping traditional time management on its head. These are unexpected, joyful, and energizing ways to spend your time - ones that might just make you think, “Why haven’t I done this sooner?"
So, if you’re ready to shake things up and fill your days with more joy, more excitement, and more of what truly matters to YOU - let’s dive in!
TIP 1: THE MAGIC OF UNSCHEDULED TIME: LETTING LIFE HAPPEN AFTER PARENTING
TIP 2: MAKE THINGS HAPPEN, YOLO LIST, STOP BEING REACTIVE
TIP 3: TIME BATCHING FOR SOCIAL JOY: HOW TO GET THINGS DONE AND STAY SOCIAL
TIP 4: THE 50-MINUTE POWER HOUR: SHORT, FOCUSED SPRINTS FOR PRODUCTIVITY
TIP 5: THEMED DAYS FOR STRUCTURED FREEDOM: CREATE SPACE FOR WHAT MATTERS
TIP 6: USE SOCIAL MEDIA TO SCHEDULE, NOT DISTRACT
TIP 7: THE POWER OF NO-TECH TIME - RECHARGE WITHOUT SCREEN FOR BETTER WELL-BEING
TIP 1: THE MAGIC OF UNSCHEDULED TIME: LETTING LIFE HAPPEN AFTER PARENTING
Balancing productivity and leisure after children move out can feel challenging, especially if you’re used to being busy. But what if I told you that unscheduled time is the secret to a more fulfilling life? Instead of filling every moment, give yourself permission to leave gaps in your day and allow life to unfold naturally.
Surprising Strategy: Create "white spaces" in your schedule. These unscheduled moments can be used for spontaneous activities, relaxation, or connecting with others, reducing the pressure to be constantly productive. Let things happen. An easy week is fine.
By allowing more breathing room, you also open up opportunities to improve your relationships. You might even discover ways to build new friendships or strengthen existing ones. (P.S. By the way, for more tips on how to communicate effectively and build meaningful connections, check out my post on Thriving Socially After 50.)
Benefit: By planning nothing, you reduce stress and allow your mind to recharge. Studies show that allowing yourself unscheduled time can help reduce anxiety and improve your overall mental well-being.
Example: Set aside one hour a day - or a couple of hours each week - where you leave your calendar open. Whether it’s to read, meet a friend, or just take a quiet moment, you’ll find that this time allows you to enjoy life in a way a packed schedule never could.
The Magic: Allowing yourself unscheduled time gives you the freedom to live more spontaneously and brings a sense of peace and relaxation into your day. You’ll be surprised how much joy can come from doing nothing at all.
TIP 2: MAKE THINGS HAPPEN, YOLO LIST, STOP BEING REACTIVE
If you want to create a future that excites you, it all starts with how you view and use your time. So often, we fill our days with things we feel we ought to do instead of what we truly want to do.
The key to finding more joy isn’t about scheduling every minute - it’s about taking control of your time in a way that aligns with your dreams and personal growth.
Make Things Happen: Actively Create the Life You Want
We’ve all heard the saying “You Only Live Once” (YOLO), but how often do we truly live by it? Many of us spend years putting off what we really want, thinking we’ll get to it “someday.” But what if you made someday today?
The YOLO List: Start by creating a YOLO list - things you’ve always wanted to do but never made time for. It doesn’t have to be extreme like skydiving or travelling the world (unless that’s your thing).
It could be as simple as learning a new skill, reconnecting with an old friend, or starting a side project. The point is to stop waiting and make time for what truly brings you joy.
While there’s value in going with the flow, there’s power in steering the ship. Time won’t magically free itself up for you to chase your dreams - you have to create that space. This doesn’t mean overscheduling yourself, but it does mean being purposeful about how you spend your time.
How can you make time for something on your YOLO list? Start by setting a small, realistic goal to incorporate it into your schedule this week.
Create Your Own Visual Board: Bringing Your Dreams to Life
Now that you’ve started thinking about what you truly want to do, it’s time to bring those dreams into focus.
A visual board is more than just a creative project - it’s a powerful tool to help you stay grounded in your goals and inspire you to take action. It’s like a roadmap to your future, one that you can see and touch every day.
Use this Vision Board PDF Template to visually map out your goals and dreams.
Take Initiative: Stop Being Reactive, Start Being Intentional
- Want more joy? Schedule activities that bring you happiness.
- Want stronger friendships? Make the first move to reach out.
- Want to explore a new path? Set aside time to research and take action.
Instead of waiting for motivation to strike, build habits that make things happen. Set a time in your calendar to work on your passion project. Create a weekly ritual to catch up with friends. Don’t wait for the perfect moment - make it happen now.
Are You Doing What You Ought to Do or What You Love to Do?
It’s easy to get stuck in a cycle of obligation - doing things because we feel we should rather than because we want to. But constantly prioritizing what you think others expect of you can hold you back from real personal growth.
Ask yourself - are these obligations real, or are they expectations you’ve placed on yourself?
Give yourself permission to let go of things that no longer serve you. Whether it’s a social commitment you don’t enjoy, a routine that feels outdated, or a responsibility that no longer aligns with your goals, it’s okay to step away. Your time is valuable, and you have the right to use it in ways that make you feel fulfilled.
Actionable Steps to Prioritize What You Love to Do
By tracking how each task makes you feel, you can better balance activities that require energy with those that give you a boost - like spending time with friends or enjoying a hobby. This helps ensure you're not constantly running on empty and that your days are filled with a mix of fulfilling tasks.
Actionable Steps:
- Start Journaling: For one week, jot down how you feel after each activity. Did volunteering at the senior centre leave you feeling drained? Did reading to kids at school leave you feeling energized? Pay attention to how different activities impact your energy.
- Spot the Patterns: After a week of journaling, look for patterns in how you feel. Are there tasks that consistently lift your spirits? What about those that seem to deplete you? This insight will help you make more intentional choices about where to spend your time.
- Make Adjustments: If an activity like volunteering at the senior centre is consistently draining you, consider swapping it out for something more uplifting, like reading to children or spending time with friends.
Research from the American Psychological Association shows that understanding the impact of activities on our energy levels can improve our well-being and overall life satisfaction. By focusing on the activities that energize you, you can ensure that your time is spent in ways that bring you joy and fulfilment.
So, grab your journal and start tracking. By the end of the week, you’ll have a clearer sense of what recharges your batteries and what’s just wearing you down. Small changes, like swapping out a draining task, can make a big difference in how you feel.
And since your energy levels play a huge role in your overall well-being, why not take it a step further? Prioritizing your health doesn’t have to be overwhelming.
If you’re looking for an easy way to fit wellness and self-care into your daily life, download our FREE Wellness & Self-Care Planner - designed just for you - to make small, meaningful changes that truly add up.
Wellness & Self-Care
FREE Planner
TIP 3: TIME BATCHING FOR SOCIAL JOY:
HOW TO GET THINGS DONE AND STAY SOCIAL
As women over 50, we tend to be so busy juggling all the little things on our to-do lists that sometimes we forget to take a breather. But here's a fun little trick: time batching. It's like multitasking but with a twist of fun.
Surprising Strategy: Combine social activities with necessary tasks by batching them into one time block. For example, why not meet up with a friend in a nearby town for coffee - and while you're at it, knock out a few errands you had planned to do anyway?
Benefit: This strategy means you don't have to choose between your social life and your to-do list. Plus, it magically transforms boring errands into mini adventures.
Example: Instead of scheduling separate hangouts with friends, plan a "Social Saturday" that includes brunch, shopping, and a museum visit - all in one go. You'll leave with a full belly, a bag full of things you didn't know you needed, and a fresh dose of culture.
Time batching isn’t just for productivity nerds - it’s for anyone who’s tired of running around like a chicken with its head cut off. According to Forbes, time management can be a game changer when we group similar tasks together. This simple shift boosts productivity and helps keep stress at bay.
So, next time you're planning your weekend, try mixing business with pleasure. Who says you can't have a little fun while checking off your list? Just be warned - you might end up with more "errands" than you bargained for, but hey, at least you’re getting things done!
TIP 4: THE 50-MINUTE POWER HOUR:
SHORT, FOCUSED SPRINTS FOR PRODUCTIVITY
When you find yourself staring at a long list of things to do and wondering how you'll ever get it all done without burning out? It happens to the best of us.
There is a surprising strategy that can help you stay productive without feeling like you're running on empty - short, focused sprints. Instead of working for hours on end, try setting a timer for 50 minutes to work on a task, followed by a 10-minute break to recharge.
It's simple, and it works. I tried this method myself, and I was amazed at how much more I got done while still feeling like I had time to breathe!
The beauty of it is that it doesn’t matter what’s on your to-do list - whether it’s a home project, a hobby, or just planning your day - this method can make even the busiest days feel more manageable.
How It Works:
50 minutes
focused effort
10 minutes
guilt-free pause
Repeat if needed
50 minutes of focused effort: Pick one thing to do - something small like sorting a drawer or something bigger like tackling emails or planning a trip. Work on it with no distractions.
10 minutes of guilt-free pause: Step away, breathe, and reset. Use this break for a quick stretch, a tea break, or even pop into the garage to put something away (something small, no heavy lifting!). These moments let your mind refresh without losing momentum.
Repeat if needed: If you’re still focused after your break, start another 50-minute sprint. And if you’re in the flow and don’t want to stop after 50 minutes, keep going until you naturally need a break. If you’ve finished what you set out to do, celebrate the win and enjoy the rest of your day!
Taking regular breaks isn’t just a luxury - it’s a necessity for staying productive without burning out. Research supports this, showing that taking breaks can improve focus, cognitive function, and even creativity.
The Wellbeing Thesis highlights how stepping away from tasks, like tidying up or organizing, can reduce stress, make the process more enjoyable, and actually help you get more done in less time. So, go ahead - take that guilt-free 10-minute break! Your brain will thank you for it.
TIP 5: THEMED DAYS FOR STRUCTURED FREEDOM:
CREATE SPACE FOR WHAT MATTERS
I’m all for having a plan - especially when it means I can have the freedom to ignore it when I feel like it. Sound familiar? That’s where themed days come in. Instead of trying to juggle a million to-dos and feeling overwhelmed, why not dedicate a couple of days of the week to do something specific?
It’s like having a gentle roadmap for your week, but with plenty of wiggle room for spontaneity (or for when you really need an extra nap).
Here’s the best part: You can have structure and freedom all at once. Themed days give you a sense of purpose without locking you into a rigid schedule. It’s like telling your calendar, "I’ve got plans, but I’m still going to have fun!"
Actionable Steps:
1. Start with a Simple Theme
Choose one thing to focus on each day. You could have "Mindful Mondays" for self-care, "Wellness Wednesdays" for exercise or learning something new, and "Social Sundays" for family time or catching up with friends. Your themed days are like personal mini-retreats, designed just for you, to nurture both your body and mind. But remember, you can also add goals to these themes. For example, if you want to build a new hobby, set a goal to explore it on one of your themed days, like "Creative Thursdays" for learning a new craft or taking up painting.
2. Make it Flexible
This isn’t about making a strict schedule you’ll feel guilty about breaking. It’s about giving yourself permission to have focus for the day, without all the pressure. Some days, you might end up doing something totally unrelated (Hello, impromptu walk in the park!), and that’s okay. Flexibility is key!
The goal is to create routines that help you feel productive without being overwhelmed. Setting small, achievable goals throughout the week can give you a sense of accomplishment while keeping stress levels low.
3. Write it Down
I know - another to-do list. But this one’s actually fun! Write down your themed days somewhere visible, like on your fridge or in your planner, so you can see what’s coming up and feel excited about it.
You’ll be surprised how much it can motivate you. But also use this list to set specific goals for the week. For instance, during your "Mindful Mondays," your goal might be to spend 20 minutes meditating or completing a journaling prompt. The idea is that your goals will naturally flow into the rhythm of your week.
4. Add Social Connections to Your Themes
It's not all about self-care, personal growth, and new hobbies. Remember, one of the most meaningful parts of life is the people in it. It's not all about personal growth - social connections are key too! Set aside time for friends with “Social Saturdays” or “Social Sundays.
Other Examples of Scheduled Theme Days
You can customize your week however you like, and here are a few ideas as theme days:
- "Mindful Mondays": A day for reflection, journaling, or meditating to set the tone for the week.
- "Creative Thursdays": Dedicate this day to exploring new hobbies or picking up a forgotten passion, such as painting, crafting, or writing.
- "Friendship Fridays": Reserve this day to reach out to friends for a coffee date, a phone call, or even a fun activity together.
- "Family Sundays": Spend quality time with your loved ones, whether that’s with your children, your partner, or extended family
- Wellness Wednesdays": Dedicate this day to moving your body, whether that’s through yoga, strength training, or other forms of exercise. For inspiration, check out my Exercising Guide.
As you start carving out space for yourself with your themed days, don’t forget to make room for personal growth. Whether it’s journaling, exploring new hobbies, or taking an online course, this time is yours to learn, reflect, and evolve.
Small shifts in how you manage your time can lead to discovering new passions and embracing meaningful challenges. Check out my guide on Personal Development for more tips on how to make this time truly transformative.
Themed days not only help keep you organized but also create routines that support your personal growth and well-being in this exciting new chapter. After all, you've navigated the busy years, and now it’s your time to set the pace. Give it a try and watch how your week transforms into something both purposeful and fun!
TIP 6: USE SOCIAL MEDIA TO SCHEDULE, NOT DISTRACT
Ever picked up your phone to check one little thing, only to realize 30 minutes have disappeared into the social media black hole? It happens to all of us. Social media is designed to keep us scrolling, but what if we flipped the script? Instead of letting it drain our time, we can use it as a tool to create real connections and make our days more fulfilling.
I have several social media accounts, mostly for business, but I’ve noticed something interesting - so many people, especially older adults, spend hours answering random questions on Quora. Is that bringing them joy? Or is it just a distraction from what could be a more meaningful use of their time?
Here’s a better way: Use social media to schedule and connect, rather than just consume.
Want to see your friends more often? Create a “Friends Circle” on Facebook or WhatsApp to easily plan meetups. Interested in new activities? Join a local group where people post about upcoming events. If you’re working on personal goals - whether it’s fitness, hobbies, or self-care routines for empty nesters - you can follow pages that inspire you and track your progress instead of getting lost in endless updates.
For example, if prioritizing self-care routines for empty nesters is important to you, follow groups that focus on wellness, mindfulness, or fitness for women over 50. Instead of passively scrolling, use that time to find new ideas, connect with like-minded people, and even set up virtual or in-person accountability groups to stay motivated.
The point is that social media doesn’t have to be a time-waster. It can be a tool for more joy, better time management, and real-life connection - but only if we use it with intention. So next time you pick up your phone, ask yourself: Am I using this to connect, or is it just another distraction? That simple shift can make all the difference.
TIP 7: THE POWER OF NO-TECH TIME -
RECHARGE WITHOUT SCREEN FOR BETTER WELL-BEING
Now that you’ve made the conscious decision to schedule your social media time, it’s time to take the next step - carving out dedicated moments for no-tech time.
In today’s digital age, we’re constantly bombarded by notifications, and while managing screen time is crucial, it’s just as vital to disconnect completely to recharge. The more we rely on technology, the harder it is to truly relax, focus, and enjoy the moment.
I get it - I’ve been there. I used to think I was 'unplugging' by putting my phone on silent, only to pick it up five minutes later. Even listening to a podcast or watching an inspiring video seemed productive, but deep down, I realized my mind was still overloaded.
I wasn’t giving myself true, uninterrupted time to just be. That's when I decided to prioritize no-tech time - a real break. Now, I dedicate a full hour to being completely screen-free a couple of times a week. No phone. No laptop. No TV. Just me, my thoughts, and the world around me.
Why it works:
Taking a break from screens isn’t just about cutting back on time spent on your devices - it’s about rediscovering the joy of being present. After the kids leave home, this can feel especially important. It’s in these quiet, tech-free moments that you can reconnect with yourself, with your partner, or even just with your surroundings.
When you step away from digital distractions, your mind begins to slow down. You become more present. Conversations feel more meaningful. And even the simplest moments, like sipping coffee on the porch or going for a walk without checking your phone, suddenly feel more alive.
Try this:
Choose your tech-free hour. If evenings are challenging, start with something simple - like an hour before bed. Turn off your phone and all screens during this time.
Do something refreshing without screens. Pick up a book, have a meaningful conversation with a friend or loved one, treat yourself to a home spa experience, or simply sit in stillness and enjoy the quiet.
Notice the difference. Without the pull of technology, you'll feel more relaxed, more centered, and ready for a peaceful night’s rest.
I won’t lie - it’s hard to disconnect. Trust me, I still find myself tempted to check in on my social media or binge-watch one more episode. But I’ve realized how much better I feel when I make that effort to go tech-free, even if it’s just for an hour in the evening.
It’s my time to breathe, to unplug from the noise, and to reconnect with myself or the people I care about.
Time management isn’t just about ticking off tasks from a list. It’s about creating space for what truly matters - whether that’s quiet moments of reflection or just being present with those around you. Sometimes, the best way to gain more time is to let go of the screens that steal it.
So, when was the last time you were truly offline? Maybe today is the day to give it a try.
CONCLUSION: YOUR TIME, YOUR NEW ADVENTURE
As we step into this next chapter of life - after the kids have flown the nest - it can feel like time is both a gift and a challenge. Suddenly, there’s more space in our days, but what do we do with it?
The key isn’t to fill every moment with tasks or obligations but to create room for the things that truly light us up: joy, meaningful connections, and deep relaxation.
Unscheduled Time
Take Initiative
Prioritize What You Love to Do
Time Batch Jobs and Fun
Time management after the nest empties doesn’t have to be a rigid schedule that feels overwhelming. Instead, think of it as your new adventure. This is your opportunity to make each day work for you, not against you.
Whether you’re using unscheduled time to let life surprise you, spending tech-free hours to reconnect with yourself, or learning to maximize those in-between moments, it’s about making choices that bring fulfilment.
50 Minute Power Hour
Themed Days
Social Media - Connect, Not Distract
Tech-Free Time
So, remember the simple but powerful tips we’ve explored: Take time for yourself and your partner - or a close friend - whether it’s a "date night" or pampering yourself with a quiet hour. Let life unfold naturally in the unscheduled moments, and don’t let technology steal your time.
It’s all about creating those little pockets of freedom, bringing joy back into your life, and giving yourself the permission to just be.
This is your time now - don't let it slip by unnoticed. Try a few of these strategies this week, and see how they feel. What’s one surprising tactic you can bring into your day to make it more joyful, freeing, and fulfilling?
Feel free to reach out via my contact page - I’d love to hear how these tips work for you.
Here’s to your new adventure!
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Birgit is a compassionate guide specialising in supporting senior women through life's transitions. Alongside her dedication to this cause, she finds joy in teaching piano, nurturing her garden, cherishing family moments, and enjoying walks. These activities fuel her creativity and bring depth and richness to her life.
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