One of the best things about being 60 now is finally being able to say “no” to the things that don’t make me happy. For years, I felt I needed to attend everything I was invited to, even when I didn’t want to. But now I’ve realized that my time and energy is too precious for that. Not attending certain social occasions has actually made me more at peace & happier than I ever expected. Here’s a rundown of the gatherings I’ve gladly given up and how much better things have become.
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Large Family Gatherings
Big family events used to be something I felt obliged to go to, but now they are a lot of stress instead of fun. There’s too much going on – too much noise, too many people to see & not enough time to just be together. I’ve started making more personal visits – with the family members I feel closest to. That’s more personal and less overwhelming.
High School Reunions
I went to reunions out of curiosity but, as the years went by – they became a contest of comparison. Who’s aged the best? Who’s accomplished the most? It’s exhausting. I would rather spend time with the friends I stayed in touch with – than revisit the past with those I barely knew at school.
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Fancy Dinner Parties
Formal dinners sound great in theory, but they’re really hard work. Dressing up, making small talk & navigating stuffy atmospheres just isn’t my thing anymore. I’m much better off heading out for a quick dinner with good friends. A good burger, some laughs and no pressure – now that’s my thing.
Weddings of Distant Relatives
Going to weddings of people I don’t even know started to feel more like a chore than an event. There’s lots of sitting around, awkward introductions & greetings – sometimes travel hassle. I kindly decline and drop off a card or present instead. It’s how I try to lend them support, without stretching myself thin.
Office Retirement Parties
While I love celebrating someone’s milestone, retirement parties can be lengthy and formal. You’re just standing there and making small talk to people you hardly ever worked with. These days, I will privately send my congratulatory notes or see the retiree in person and talk to him/her. When I retire – I expect to walk away without any sort of party.
Holiday Parties with Acquaintances
Festive holiday parties are fun – but if it’s just a group of acquaintances or distant friends, it is awkward and exhausting. The banter feels forced, and part of me never really knows why I’m there. I’d rather stay at home with a blanket, some hot cocoa and my favorite holiday movie.
Big Charity Galas
I used to go to charity galas to support causes that I believe in, but those big events began to seem more like performances. I’m tired of dressing, mingling, formalities, etc. that come with these galas. I’ve found I can continue to contribute without a fuss – or volunteer in more real ways.
Networking Events
Whenever I was working networking events seemed obligatory. They just seem unnecessary and exhausting now. I don’t want to build my network anymore — I want to make the relationships I have stronger. And it’s refreshing to no longer have to market yourself to everyone!
Neighborhood Barbecues
These sound innocent, but they are also filled with gossip and unnecessary drama. I’ve found that skipping the barbecue keeps me out of awkward conversations and allows me to spend time with neighbors I truly enjoy in smaller, intimate settings.
Baby Showers for Distant Friends
Baby showers are nice but if it’s for someone I haven’t seen in years, that’s just too much. All the games and gifts are just not my cup of tea anymore. I can send a heartfelt card and a gift that says I am thinking of you without going through the motions of a party.
Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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