IS THIS MY LIFE UNTIL I DIE?

My life has dwindled to a boring and restricted existence. I retired at the age of 50 and thought I’d have a lot of time to enjoy life. My wife and I moved into a retirement village and I thought we’d tour Africa and see the world.

But my wife is timid and a real “house mouse” and she just wants to stay put. She wasn’t like this when we were younger, and before I retired she was game for anything. But after we moved she changed into someone I don’t know – she’s boring and unimaginative.

I’m now 53 and still fit and healthy – I jog every morning. I’ve ensured that we’re financially well off so we can travel without worrying about money.

But now I find myself in despair about the state of my life. All we do is stay at home and grow old. Because we moved far away we don’t even have friends close by.

I feel resentment building up towards my wife – to such an extent that I’ve considered divorce. What should I do? Graham, email It seems your wife is in a comfort zone. She probably doesn’t even realise just how frustrated you are. Tell her you feel like a bird in a cage.

Tell her you need more excitement in your life and have so looked forward to travelling that you’re determined to do it – and either she comes with you or she stays at home. Then leave the choice up to her.

If your wife chooses not to accompany you, don’t let this change anything – stick to your guns and enjoy your travels.