Spectator by Seema Goswami: A special turn-down service

Seema Goswami describes how aging has freed her from people-pleasing, allowing her to reject unwanted activities.

She now avoids large dinner parties with over 50 people and prefers small gatherings of close friends.

Buffet-style dining is declined because of the discomfort of queueing and balancing plates.

Group holidays are no longer accepted; she vacations only with her husband.

She now limits maintaining relationships to those who make reciprocal efforts to stay in touch.