Client Case Study: Rediscovering Identity After the Nest Empties
Client Profile
Name: Lisa (Hypothetical)
Age: 55
Background: Full-time parent for 25+ years, former marketing professional
Challenge: Identity loss after children moved out, low self-worth, no clear next chapter
Initial Situation
Lisa had poured her heart into raising her kids. But now—with the last child off to college—she found herself alone in a quiet house, unsure of who she was without a full calendar of school activities and family logistics. Once a driven professional, Lisa now felt invisible. Her confidence waned, her marriage had grown distant, and her sense of purpose was… fuzzy at best.
She wanted something more—but didn’t know what that looked like or how to begin.
Brave Ways Coaching Process
Amy met Lisa with warmth and curiosity, helping her gently navigate the uncomfortable in-between stage of life.
Phase 1: Rediscovering Self
- Grief Acknowledgment: Lisa learned it was okay to mourn the end of an era—without guilt.
- Values Reconnection: Through guided exercises, Amy helped Lisa uncover the values that still mattered—creativity, curiosity, connection.
- Dream Excavation: Amy asked, “Before you were a mother, what were your dreams?” That opened a door Lisa hadn’t touched in decades.
Phase 2: Building Self-Worth
- Confidence Exercises: Small challenges (volunteering, creative writing, workshops) helped Lisa reconnect with her voice and competence.
- Boundary Setting: Lisa practiced prioritizing herself, learning to say no without shame.
- Relationship Revival: Amy coached Lisa on re-engaging her partner with vulnerability and honesty, leading to a more connected marriage.
Phase 3: Reinvention
- New Direction: Lisa reignited her passion for storytelling and began writing a memoir.
- Social Engagement: She joined a local women’s group and found deep, meaningful friendships.
- Purpose: Lisa now mentors young women navigating motherhood and transitions.
Outcome
Lisa didn’t “bounce back”—she redefined forward.
She went from asking “What now?” to confidently saying “This is just the beginning.”
