I have noticed something in my fifties. I don't get embarrassed anymore. I do not blush, I do not do anything. It's not as if I am unaware of what is going on around me or unaware that I say things that could potentially cause me to be embarrassed. I just, flat-out, don't get embarrassed.
Here is an example: One time I was giving a speech to a group at an advertising agency. I was talking about getting more sleep which is something I always touch on when talking about stress reducing. I was suggesting ways to get more sleep and one of the strategies I suggested was to record the tv programs they wanted to watch, and then zap the commercials to save time. Think about it.
Shouldn't my face have gotten red? I just smiled and said, "Hey, forget that crazy suggestion!"
When you are a mother of teen-agers, there are all sorts of opportunities to embarrass yourself and your children. It doesn't really matter what you do or say---your existence and everything about you has the potential to embarrass somebody....except me.
I am kind of fascinated by the whole thing. It is very freeing. It still takes me by surprise because it is relatively new. Maybe, I just don't care.
I have reached a point in my life where I don't have time for nonsense. I don't have the time to waste time and I think getting flustered and embarrassed is a waste of time. I did it enough when I was younger and made a fool of myself enough times that I think I'm good for right now....don't need anymore.
I like the freedom of this. I like knowing I am ok and can handle whatever situation I am in. If it is a situation that requires an apology, I can do that.
If it is a situation, that requires the tact of "not noticing" something, I can do that.
If it is a situation that is truly funny, I can laugh, even at myself.
I think some embarrassment comes from taking ourselves too seriously. I have no interest in doing that. I am old enough to know that I don't want to waste any time in acting like I am THAT important. I like the lightening up.
Finally, a benefit to the fifties. I know there is more, but this is a good one to start with!
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