We all want to be fulfilled and happy in this phase of life, but somedays it feels like we’re swimming upstream.  There are a few basic things that all of us need to flourish in this phase of life, but many of us don’t know what they are. In this episode of "Life after Kids," we’re talking about the primary needs that are fundamental at all stages of life but take on particular significance now that the kids are growing up and we’re entering a new season of life.  It’s important to understand and address these needs—certainty, uncertainty, significance, love and connection, growth, and contribution— so we can live a more fulfilling phase of life after our children leave the nest.Key Takeaways:The six primary needs discussed are certainty, uncertainty, significance, love and connection, growth, and contribution, and how they impact midlife women.Self-awareness about which primary need is driving one's behavior can help identify areas of imbalance and lead to a more fulfilling life phase.Practical suggestions are offered to meet each need in healthy ways, such as adopting new hobbies, taking risks, or volunteering to address the need for love and connection and contribution.It’s important to balance between certainty and variety to avoid feelings of boredom or stagnation.Pursuing growth and contribution can lead to deep personal fulfillment and contentment.Navigating the complexities of 'empty nest syndrome' can be tricky.  It’s important to find ways to redefine your purpose and foster growth in your daily life.  Let’s find a balance between the need for stability and the desire for variety and change together.  Listen to this week’s episode of Life after Kids to explore these conflicting needs and challenging emotions and get practical strategies for finding fulfillment and alignment in this phase of life. RESOURCES:The Find Your Purpose Quiz  0:01:24 | Need for certainty and stability, and its importance0:03:12 | Dr. Brooke's personal experience with the need for certainty.0:07:52 | Addressing the need for uncertainty in relationships and finding healthy vehicles for variety.0:09:56 | Changing up routines for brain health0:10:40 | Healthy expressions of significance0:14:25 | Love and connection as a primary need0:18:45 | The importance of personal growth0:19:53 | Feeling fulfilled through daily growth0:20:36 | Importance of growth and learning through reading0:21:13 | Taking risks and trying new things to grow0:21:30 | The importance of contribution and giving back0:22:42 | Giving time, energy, and talents to contribute0:23:44 | Feeling fulfilled and content through gratitude and giving0:24:59 | Taking the first step to make a difference0:26:04 | Embracing the journey and becoming the best version of yourself0:26:38 | Reminder to continue growing and accomplishing goals  Enjoy the show, and we hope you learn a little bit more about living a fulfilling, vibrant, and meaningful Life after Kids! If you like what you hear please rate and review the podcast, hit subscribe, and pass it along to a friend. Making tomorrow even better than today, Dr. Brooke and Dr. Lynne PS... Don't forget to follow us! Instagram Facebook Tik Tok