If you’ve just shipped your youngest off to college or said good-bye to an only child who landed their dream job across the country, you’re likely feeling a confusing cocktail of emotions right now. After all, we want our kids to spread their wings yet we can’t help feeling worry, loneliness, and deep sadness when they fly the coop. As difficult as the empty nest can be, I am here to assure you that you will survive this stage of life and offer some tips and words of encouragement.

Do you recall the early stages of your career when retirement was decades away and just an elusive dream? Maybe you remember older colleagues packing up and heading out for new horizons. You may have even felt a twinge of envy (especially after a nightmarish day on the job!). But now that you are getting close to the reality of your own retirement, you may be feeling a sense of worry and trepidation. It’s like peering over a cliff into a gaping void, undefined and totally unknown. It’s completely understandable to experience many emotions at this time—excitement and anticipation mixed with a healthy dose of fear and uncertainty.

If you’re over 50 and back in the job market, don’t worry. You have the experience and the edge to land that job!