One of the issues that I find myself and others discussing in retirement and as we age, is a loss of patience.
It seems contrary that one should be impatient when schedules and demands are not supposed to be a concern, but a number of people have told me that their patience markedly decreased after they retired. Little things seem to lead to quick outbursts. Long lines or inefficient people create rolling eyes, toe tapping and exasperated expressions. Road rage can become all too common if someone is ignoring a green signal, going 35 in a 45 zone, using the “fast” lane, to say nothing of someone In front of you texting while you wait for the light to turn green. At this point in life, your blood pressure doesn’t need these episodes, so what is the cause and what can you do to avoid them?
The causes may be due to a number of situations. Maybe you REALLY DO need to be someplace at a certain time and this individual doing 35 in a 45 is causing you angst. Or maybe you left late and now the same situation has you steaming. This sort of aggravation is never good, but now that you are older, it may affect your health. However, you may also find yourself getting aggravated because things are not going as expected or you find yourself powerless to correct situations you believe you should. You want to help, you want to be more involved in family matters, for example, since you feel you can help. But you know there is a line, and once you cross it, you may find out you should have just minded your own business. These situations can be extremely aggravating and wear on your patience and your overall attitude.
Loss of patience is another trial of aging and learning, or relearning it, and as a result, developing a sense of calm, is a key attribute of a good life and also a content retirement. There are issues you can impact and you should, but you should also learn when to close your eyes, take a few deep breaths, and calm it. It will help you both physically and mentally, and since more trials will be forthcoming, developing a patient attitude and sense of calmness will not only benefit you, but also those around you. When you feel aggravated, close your eyes, take a few deep breaths and think calm. It works.
Happy retirement!