When you have a child, your life changes instantly. Suddenly, everything is about them. Every single choice, action, and decision you make you take their happiness and well-being into consideration. It isn’t long before this becomes second-nature and just the way you live. This is exactly why so many people find it hard when kids grow up and then leave the house. Maybe they have moved away for school, or perhaps they have moved out in order to establish themselves in the world. Suddenly, you find yourself as an empty-nester and feeling a bit scattered and lost on how you can fill your days.
Empty Nest Syndrome
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One way that may work to combat empty nest syndrome is to consider heading back to school and starting a new career path. By doing this, you are giving thought to your own goals and wants in life and putting yourself back in the spotlight – something you may not have done in decades now. One career path that can work really well with your life experience as a parent, and your own interests and skills, can be a job in the public service sector. While not always glamorous, this is an industry where you can continue to make a difference in people’s lives, just as you did for your own child.
Unsure of what a career in public service would require and look like? Let’s take a closer look.
Enroll in an Online Degree Program
In order to secure the best job options out there, it’s a good idea to enroll in a degree program that provides you with the knowledge, skills, and tools needed to excel in the field. The masters in public administration through such schools as Norwich University can be done at home, which means you can work it into your current schedule.
In this program, you’ll be learning what you need to become a strong leader in a not-for-profit or outreach program, in the municipal government, and even a career in criminal justice and public safety. You can earn your degree in as little as 18 months, allowing you to get out and start that new career path rather quickly.
What Kind of Jobs Could You Get?
Once you have your degree, a number of doors will open for you. Thanks to your Norwich University MPA, you can go on and work in a non-profit organization as a manager, a public affairs director, a policy analyst, a foundation or charity director or manager, a public administration consultant, an economic development director, a budget director, or a local government administrator just to name a few.
You Will Still be Making a Difference
Part of what makes it so hard when the kids move out is that parents can feel like they are no longer making a difference and impacting someone’s life in a positive way. If you miss being able to do that, then a career in public service can help to fill the void. Many of the jobs available will have you working with the public and helping them in a number of ways.
There is no reason to let empty nest syndrome sink in. Instead, look at it as an opportunity for you to pursue other interests and paths in life.