5 Things I No Longer Pretend to Enjoy
There was a time when—whether I wanted to or not—I showed up, smiled, and nodded along. I sometimes said I liked things I didn’t, simply because it felt easier than explaining myself.
Somewhere along the way, that changed.
I didn’t wake up one morning determined to stop pretending. I just stopped caring quite as much. I began to notice how much energy it took to manufacture enthusiasm I didn’t actually feel—and how often I was saying yes to things that left me drained, distracted, or vaguely annoyed.
So here are a few things I no longer pretend to enjoy.
Loud Restaurants
I understand the appeal. I do. Energy. Atmosphere. A “scene.”
But if I have to shout across the table and still leave not knowing what you said about your trip, I’m out. I’d rather have a conversation than an experience.
Group Fitness Classes That Feel Like Punishment
If the instructor’s “encouragement” sounds suspiciously like threats, I’m not motivated—I’m actually a tad annoyed.
I still like movement. I just prefer it without a soundtrack that makes me feel like I’m failing at something I voluntarily signed up for.
Staying Out Late
There is truly nothing that excites me quite as much as being asleep by 10 p.m.
Maybe it’s midlife. Maybe it’s wisdom. Maybe it’s the fact that sleep now feels more valuable than almost anything else. In fact, Brad Pitt himself could be knocking at my door, and if it’s 10:15, he’s probably not going to see me.
This isn’t a character flaw. It’s a boundary.
Small Talk That Goes Nowhere
I don’t mind light conversation. I do mind conversations that never leave the surface.
If we’re going to talk, I’d rather talk about something real.
Or not talk at all.
Late-Night Events That Start After the Start Time
I once planned an entire girls’ weekend around seeing a band I loved. The show was advertised to start at 8. The band didn’t take the stage until 10.
That was the moment I realized concerts might no longer be my thing.
None of this means I’m joyless.
It just means I’m done pretending.
By letting go of what I don’t actually enjoy, I’ve made more room for what I do: sleep, quiet, strength that feels good, conversations that linger, and evenings that don’t require a recovery plan.
Midlife has a way of sharpening preferences—and lowering tolerance for nonsense.
The freedom isn’t in liking everything.
It’s in liking what you like.
And going to bed when you want to.
I’m curious - what’s something you no longer pretend to enjoy?
