Am I Set in My Ways...Or Do I Just Know What I Like?

Let me start by saying: I love my children. But isn’t it funny how, after they’ve been visiting, you think… whew—now they’re gone and we can get back to normal?

I think this is part of being an empty-nester. We get into a routine. Not a rut, mind you—but a rhythm. We like our time, our ways, our habits. When we’re younger, routines can feel dull or boring. But now? I love them. As we get older, do we become more content to just be?

I can honestly say I’m happy eating in and watching TV with my husband most nights. I do some household chores, go for a walk, feed the dog, work on my blog, eat dinner, watch TV, wash my face, brush my teeth—in pretty much this exact order almost every night.

And you know what? It brings me peace. Why is that? Why do older adults get so set in their ways and dislike varying from their routine? I think it’s because routine feels safe and stable. Sticking to what’s familiar reduces stress and risk. We’ve spent years juggling jobs, kids, schedules, and the general chaos of life. At this stage, any reduction in mental load feels like a gift. We’ve also learned a lot along the way—not just what we like and don’t like, or what works and what doesn’t, but emotional clarity too.

We know ourselves better now. So, if someone says to me, “You’re stuck in a rut,” I say—yes! And I love it!

Thanks for visiting my nest—until next time.