To think I need to get a new life

[Feelingunnecessary]

So, teens now pretty self sufficient. Am now currently seen, alternatively, as a taxi, or a killjoy whose role in life it is to curtail fun. Ds 17 and I get on pretty well but he’s off soon back to college. Dd 14 is rarely home alone as she tends to roam in a pack at the moment, and is having a lovely summer at the park and here or at friends houses for sleepovers. Slightly concerned about things she mentions (drinking at friend’s houses etc) but at least she’s telling me, and I always reiterate that she can tell me anything and I’ll always come and get her should she get in a situation she can’t handle etc etc. So that’s them...
Dh is getting on, early 60s and on leave atm. He’s happy to read and sunbathe and potter. And here is my issue - I’m bored, and largely redundant. A few friends (who work part time) but clearly not enough.

Any suggestions for new activities for a woman in her 50s during these strange times? I do volunteer roles but they’re closed right now. Being so unfulfilled is making me crabby.

What sort of things interest you?

Further education? Improving fitness? Travel the world? Write a book?

The list is endless...

Do you work? If not, it may be the time to consider it, although it's obviously slightly harder right now to start a new career.

You've told us nothing about yourself, other than that you're bored! (And do some volunteering.)

Perhaps you could say something about your own educational/work/interests background.

BTW - with your daughter busily roaming and then coming home you may soon be busy looking after your poor ancient husband in hospital - have you all forgotten about Covid-19?

(Though I guess you wouldn't be allowed to look after. You know what I mean ...)

Since when has early 60s been ancient?

Also, OP. The food banks here are very active at the moment and always need volunteers.

a sport, cycling, martial arts, crossfit, paddle boarding, open water swimming?

Not at any time in living memory, Finfintytint!

Just stop for a while. Then start every day thinking what do I want to do, what do I need to do. No should, ought. Start a few leisure pursuits and see which you enjoy. Plan a project.

Get a bike and look up local Breeze rides 😀

Er supervise your 14 year old, stop her roaming around in a pack breaking govt guidelines?

This is just a brilliant opportunity.
Do you like list-making? You could make a bucket list of all the things you've always wanted to do or try but never got round to. (There are loads online for inspiration. I separate mine into
a) stuff I can do easily, for free, or immediately but just never have (eg making jam, visiting a local beauty spot you've meant to go to for years)

b) things that need a bit more commitment (eg signing up for a course, joining a sports team)
c) Things that need proper planning and a big budget (e.g. long haul travel; studying for higher qualifications; renovating the house.

I try to do something for the a list every week, something from the b list every month and the c list once a year. It just keeps life lively and fun.

Why don't you work? Work provides social stimulation too. It's not just about earning money. I think there is a lot of people who wouldn't be able to entertain themselves without a job.

You probably have 10+ years until state retirement age. How do you plan to fund your retirement ?
Should you be working & saving
or
Working & paying for some luxuries, home improvements, hobbies, holidays

Do you not work?

I don't know much about you but I would also suggest getting a job, if you can. Going to work is about so much more than earning money. I changed careers due to circumstances and did something I previously would have though was beneath me. I can't tell you how many people I met from different backgrounds, countries, all with different experiences of life and young people that had to talk to me because we were stuck together. I learned so much and it opened my eyes to the world. Just get out there, try something completely new to you.

@dayswithaY

I don't know much about you but I would also suggest getting a job, if you can. Going to work is about so much more than earning money. I changed careers due to circumstances and did something I previously would have though was beneath me. I can't tell you how many people I met from different backgrounds, countries, all with different experiences of life and young people that had to talk to me because we were stuck together. I learned so much and it opened my eyes to the world. Just get out there, try something completely new to you.

What was it you did (if it isn't too outing). I may soon be in a similar position as Covid has probably killed our business. Thinking of overhauling our life, downsizing the house and getting jobs we may previously have thought were 'beneath us'. Business ownership has been great when it goes well but devastatingly stressful in the last 6 months.

Retail, but quite niche. The people I met were a mixture of colleagues and customers.

Dont allow your 14 year old to drink 🙈 says me, I defo drank at that age. I have one that age that's still such a child I couldn't imagine them drinking. Enjoy yourself OP! if your wealthy enough that you dont have to work well done you.