To not like being around other people the older I get...

I agree with the poster above about it being perimenopause x this happened to me it was hard to get used to at first more for other people who were used to me being a walk over x now I feel it's liberating it wasn't just people in shops it was family members and work colleagues who had always been annoying but I used to bite my tongue none of that any more xx

45 here and I agree with most of what you've said. I do force myself to focus on the nice people though to not get bitter. Like in the supermarket you got annoying people but also cute children, the elderly cute couple etc. But I am disappointed just like you with the state of the world. I always hold up doors, leave my place on the bus/train for elderly/pregnant women, help disabled people when needed. And sadly very often I notice that I'm almost the only one. What I do, and what I suggest you do as well @Totallybannanas is look at the other person who is polite/ helpful and smile rather than looking at those who just don't care/lack basic manners. It's too easy to get depressed and bitter otherwise.

I have also noted how I have become more withdrawn since my children left elementary. Something with not having to be involved in school and doing the school runs has made me find my introvert side as I no longer have to be social for the kids sake. I'm quite liking it tbh...and I could definitely see myself as a future catlady (or maybe dog) if DH who's allergic doesn't watch his behaviour 😅

This is definitely a thing. I think it’s about reaching a certain age and stage in life and seeing the world in a slightly different way. It’s a good thing at any age to enjoy one’s own company in any case. I also think that as women in particular when we are younger we had been conditioned to accommodate other people’s wants and needs. A certain amount of life experience then tends to reeducate ourselves and we are less Inclined to bend over backwards for other people unless they are close family or close friends where we know it is reciprocal. However, even when we get to this blessed stage in life, it’s still important I think to be civil and
polite to all, to keep the wheels of society turning.

Am I evil in even finding my family a bit much at times?

I’ve found my tribe. meet up! 😂

I feel the same and think it’s partly to do with working in customer/client facing rolls for years and constantly having to deal with the public. Also since covid where I really enjoyed not having to socialise.

Perfectly normal menopausal situation. For me the rattiness and intolerance went with HRT but I still prefer being on my own or with family. I also think it’s a symptom of living busy, stressful lives that we aren’t designed for.

Yes. I think this is where the witchy, weird old lady in the woods with the cats thing comes from. We get to a certain age and other humans become intolerable. I'm hoping it's a phase. But I'm looking for one bedroom cottages in the wilderness on rightmoves just in case HRT doesn't help.

Yes I'm in my 40's. I used to be a 'yes' person and more empathetic and always used to get back to people, arrange things etc.

I'd say I'm not rude to people but don't feel the need to arrange things, reply to every message, reach out to others as much. I look on the Ring camera before going out to make sure the neighbours aren't out, so I don't have to talk to them.

I have come to the realisation, in my 40's, that most people are self-centered, self-interested and many are rude, especially when travel is involved. That's why I avoid people.

Pretty normal menopausal situation IMO. I'm the same.

As well as menopause, it's partly a function of how society is these days. Too many people or not enough things to go round. Doesn't matter which. Whether that's a parking space or a job - just not enough of them. Society isn't really working well.

Can't stand people outside of my closest family and friends and dog.

I think this is normal - I think we change as we get older...

I'm sure it's peri, but also what a shame for you! It's a total waste of energy to tut and huff at the supermarket. Tolerance is hugely important for your own well being, I'm not sure what the answer is but life is long and you can't go round always sweating the small stuff

There’s a reason why I have four dogs and a horse.

The only person I never get fed up of is my DH, which is fortunate. Even then, I relish the odd bit of time I get alone.

Sounds you are perimenopausal, your nurturing hormones vanish and your tolerance for others with it 😬🫣