I am struggling with holding a stressful job in my late 60s.

5 Comments

1. Gretchen SkalkaSeptember 19,2022 at 10:18PM UTC

   Without knowing about you or the job, it's difficult to know what you have to work or what challenges you may be working against.

   I will say from personal experience that meditation and general breathing exercises can work wonders.

   I began mediating quite by accident in 2014 after the death of my niece and it has been a blessing. I credit it with helping me get off blood pressure medication, as well.

   There are likely job-related strategies that can also help, such as taking breaks, moving around (even just rolling your ankles and wrists on the hour or half hour), taking a short walk inside or out, drinking more water (yup, good for stress reduction), and more.

2. Arizona NativeSeptember 22,2022 at 12:31AM UTC

   Thank you, Gretchen … I am doing breathing. Not sure how to meditate. I appreciate this.

3. Gretchen SkalkaSeptember 24,2022 at 11:01PM UTC

   I started by accident - just kind of zenned out (zoned out) when I was under an incredible amount of stress in late 2014.

   You can try starting by watching your breath.

   Sit (or lie down, which I prefer) and close your eyes and inhale (and mentally watch it get drawn in) and exhale (same) - feel how your nose feels cool on the inhale. Notice how it makes you feel to just breath in and out.

   Focusing on my breathing is the fastest way for me to calm myself down and stay calm.

4. AnonymousSeptember 20,2022 at 1:46AM UTC

   Ask yourself if the paycheck is worth the stress. Could your boss or employer be piling on more responsibilities than you can handle in a passive-aggressive way because they want you to retire? Consider a less stressful job, even if it pays less. You should prioritize happiness, especially in your late 60s, you've earned it.

5. Arizona NativeSeptember 22,2022 at 12:30AM UTC

   Thank you. I see it as pretty temporary. It’s a job that has a high burn out rate. Thank you.