This sounds a lot like software development. We are constantly on the edge of frustration.
Working on a complex problem can be at the same time exhausting and satisfying.
Is this not a perfect example?
Programming and software development need not be complex, and indeed a lot of programmers do not work on complex things, much of what they do is just routine, and that will not be enough stimuli for your brain.
That's my medium to long term plan, anyway.
The effect of a total change of routine, new experiences and challenges, emotional experiences (stress, wonder, happiness), was huge.
It was the first time I saw him look alive in months.
In retirement, I think you cam get stuck in am easy, comfortable rut. As in working age life but more so. Travel to novel places, with novel people, doing novel things, can force you out of that rut. Probably worth remembering for younger rutters as well.
Of course, I'm not talking about candy tripping in Ibiza.
(Wikipedia)