When my youngest daughter left for university, the house suddenly felt a little too quiet. As a single mum, that emptiness hit me hard. I even wrote a blog about the first seven days without her, filled with some amusing moments—but it was during this time that golf took on a whole new meaning in my life.
For many parents, the “empty nest” phase brings a mix of emotions—pride, excitement, and a sense of loss. It’s a significant transition, and it’s natural to seek out new activities to fill the void. For me, two things helped ease the transition: founding a Single Sunday Lunch Club for fellow empty nesters (named “CRUMBLES”, formed in 2019) and heading to the golf course.
Golf turned out to be a fantastic option for anyone looking to stay active, make new friends, and find a welcome distraction from the quiet at home. Here’s why golf became my go-to during this new chapter.
Stay Active and Healthy
Golf is the perfect way to stay active without pushing your body too hard. Walking an 18-hole course covers more than five miles, offering a gentle workout that’s great for your heart, muscles, and overall fitness. Unlike more intense sports, golf lets you enjoy the outdoors at your own pace, making it ideal for staying fit without worrying about injuries or overexertion.
Rediscover Your Personal Time
With the kids gone, you suddenly have more time to focus on yourself. Golf is the perfect outlet for this—it’s a sport that requires patience, practice, and personal goals. Whether you’re working on lowering your handicap, mastering new techniques, or simply enjoying a peaceful morning on the green, golf gives you the chance to invest in yourself.
Make New Friends
One of the great joys of golf is its social side. It’s a sport that naturally brings people together, helping you form new friendships and meet people from all walks of life. Most golf clubs offer social events, leagues, and tournaments, making it easy to connect with others who are also navigating life’s transitions.
Embrace Nature and Fresh Air
There’s something special about being out on a golf course, surrounded by beautiful landscapes. The fairways are often set in serene environments, offering a peaceful escape from the everyday hustle. Spending time outdoors, breathing in the fresh air, and soaking up the scenery is a proven way to reduce stress and boost your mood—just what you need as you adjust to a quieter home.
Challenge Your Mind
Golf isn’t just a physical game; it’s a mental one too. Every hole presents a new challenge that requires strategy, concentration, and problem-solving. Learning how to navigate the course, refine your swing, and manage your game keeps your mind sharp and gives you a sense of accomplishment that’s both satisfying and motivating.
Enjoy Flexibility and Freedom
One of the best things about golf is its flexibility. Whether you have a full day or just an hour, you can easily fit golf into your schedule. Play a full 18-hole round, a quick 9-hole game, or simply practice on the driving range or putting green—whatever works for you.
Golf became more than just a hobby for me; it was a lifeline during those early weeks of empty nest syndrome. It filled those empty hours, introduced me to new friends, and even led to other social activities like quiz nights. If you’re navigating this new phase of life, I can’t recommend it enough. Grab your clubs and head to the course—you might just find it’s exactly what you need to make this transition a little easier and a lot more enjoyable.