When the focus of your energy and time has been your children, you may find yourself at a loss of what to do when they finally leave the nest. Luckily, there's no shortage of activities or hobbies that you can take on to enrich your life as you begin your next chapter.

Taking a course at a local community college is a great way to fill time while learning a new skill. Many colleges offer noncredit courses that appeal to those with more time on their hands. Courses in basic sewing, photography and even pastry-making may be offered at a community college close to you for very little cost.

Many of these courses could spark interest in a newfound hobby, which could be transformed into a side hustle. Creating a side hustle out of a hobby that you enjoy allows for the best of both worlds. As a photographer, you could offer services for portraits or small events, working as little or as much as you like. The same can be said with other hobbies such as baking, writing or woodwork. Having some extra pocket change could help fund the adventures that you have been putting off for years.

There's no better time to travel than when there is only you or yourself and a partner to accommodate. Expenses are lower and travel destinations and activities are all up to you. If you find you have some significant time on your hands, you may find yourself wanting to do some "slow travel." Slow travel involves traveling while taking your time moving from destination to destination. If this sounds like something you've been wanting to do, consider renting an RV. It's an easy method of travel for those looking to visit many destinations at a leisurely pace.

If you'd rather travel while meeting others in the same phase of life, cruises are a great option for those looking for company. There are activities, shows, presentations and dining options that offer the opportunity to socialize with and to get to know your fellow travelers.

Working remotely may also offer a great opportunity to travel. As long as you have access to an internet connection, you can work from anywhere that your passport can take you.

Traveling also offers the perfect opportunity to practice a new language. Perhaps you've tried to learn Spanish, Mandarin or French in the past but failed to keep your newly gained language skills up to speed. You might have been missing one of the most important components of language learning: consistent practice. There are a number of language learning resources available these days. Duolingo is a free popular app that teaches languages by going through a series of lessons that build upon one another. Consider exploring the resources of your local library. You can also search for language groups in your area where people gather to practice by conversing with one another, which is a great way to solidify new language skills.

No matter which new adventures you choose to embark on, it's important to remember to take time to care for your mental health. Transitioning to a life without full-time childcare can be difficult and many adults experience "empty nest syndrome," or feelings of grief and loneliness. A few simple ways to combat these negative feelings can be to meditate, go to therapy or make time for nature. Volunteering is another way to fight feelings of loneliness, especially for those looking for a way to continue helping and caring for others.