Going into semi retirement - DH just 'around' all the time

[VoluptuaGoodshag]

I know this is more me than him but he's been working from home a lot more since lockdown and looks like he'll be retiring in the next year or so. We do lovely things together but having him around, all the time, is putting me on edge. Not that he stops me doing anything but I just like my own space a bit. Even walking into town for something or going for the weekly shop, when he says oh I'll come with you, I'd really prefer he didn't.

How do others navigate this new bit of life? I don't want to be in each others pockets. He does have his hobbies separate to me but I just like my own space a bit more and he always seems to be there.

@Heb1996

Now DH has retired last year and we’re settling into a pattern. He plays golf usually 3 times a week and goes to the gym 3 times a week. He also does a bit of gardening.

Wow, I'd love mine to be so active! 3 days a week out of the house plus gym? No wonder it's been such an easy adjustment 😁

It's those men who hang around the house all day, who don't go out and have hobbies which I guess is OP's worry

@Abracadabra12345 yep!! We’re finding things much easier than we thought!! And it means I never have to feel guilty for going out and leaving him alone because he’s not very often in which is great and he’s loving that for the first time in 40 years he’s got time for his beloved and he’s out there winning tournaments and getting holes in one!! Unbelievable! I’m happy for him. 😀😀

You are very lucky- many would envy you both

@Abracadabra12345 Thank you. I’m glad it’s working out well. He definitely deserves time to himself after 43 years of work. And I’m enjoying the meals that I haven’t had to cook!!!

In Japan there's a name for it "Retired Husband Syndrome" -

"Don't become a Wet Fallen Leaf! - Henwood Court" https://henwoodcourt.co.uk/dont-become-a-wet-fallen-leaf/

@wisbech fascinating, every woman should research this

"Advice from a retired husband - Starts at 60" https://startsat60.com/media/lifestyle/jokes/advice-from-a-retired-husband

@justasking111 Ha, ha- and there are actually men like this out there. My favourite similar thing was in 'one foot in the grave' when Margaret had been I'll and said 'I'm going back to work for a rest' - that programme summed it all up very well I felt.