The “I want to retire soon” thread (1 Viewer)

[Al Czervik]

Should I factor in free meals in my retirement equation? Probably twice a month I get those offers in the mail to go listen to a retirement planning pitch for a free meal at a nice restaurant. Seems like I could retire early and eat well.

 

[Desert_Power]

New portfolio threshold achieved. 14 months to step up - totally crazy. It won't hold as my company stock has gone vertical and it's sure to retrace - huge part of that 14 months is in that wildcard. But damn, things are moving. My expenses have been very low (1 PTO day since last May, so no vacations to blow dough) and my tracker says I'm at 62x TTM expenses, which is ridiculous. In the long term I'm realistically at 40x.

Seriously considering where to go from here.

Has it already been a few months since the last time I told you that you should retire? 1 PTO day since last May?

 

[Sand]

New portfolio threshold achieved. 14 months to step up - totally crazy. It won't hold as my company stock has gone vertical and it's sure to retrace - huge part of that 14 months is in that wildcard. But damn, things are moving. My expenses have been very low (1 PTO day since last May, so no vacations to blow dough) and my tracker says I'm at 62x TTM expenses, which is ridiculous. In the long term I'm realistically at 40x.

Seriously considering where to go from here.

Has it already been a few months since the last time I told you that you should retire? 1 PTO day since last May?

I know, right. It's ridiculous and I recognize that. I do have a bunch of stuff planned for Sept. - Oct.

 

[Peggy]

6 months since I stopped getting income from a paycheck. Accounts are up despite the spending and we've done quite a bit of work to the house. Small snapshot in time, but, comforting. It's a little weird still transferring cash to checking to pay for things, instead of having constant stream of income, but as long as the account balances keep going up I guess it doesn't matter. Hopefully someday, 5 or 10 years from now, I'll be able to stop even tracking the spend and not worry about it. That's the goal.

 

[-OZ-]

I'm at 62x TTM expenses, which is ridiculous. In the long term I'm realistically at 40x.

Either one is ridiculous imo but if you’re happy that’s great.

But then I’m sitting here at 33x with no intention to retire.

 

[JohnnyU]

This week has been the first time I've really felt the urge to retire. Early 50s here with young-ish kids. Not sure why, but it hit me like a ton of bricks earlier this week. We're close, but not quite in a position to retire but it sure has me considering moving to fewer days of work per week. Anyone else?

I retired this summer. I’m 66. The biggest issue I’ve seen with people wanting to retire in their 50s is cost of healthcare, not being eligible for Medicare, and that they won’t get their social security for a long time. For some this isn’t an issue due to how much money they saved / invested, but it is cost prohibitive for others. For me personally, I’m debt free, I have a nice pension, 403b, and savings, so the time was right. I’ll wait until spring 2026 to collect my social security. Everyone’s situation is different, so good luck. The most important thing in retirement is being debt free. I love the freedom that comes with retirement.

 

[JohnnyU]

I'm at 62x TTM expenses, which is ridiculous. In the long term I'm realistically at 40x.

Either one is ridiculous imo but if you’re happy that’s great.

But then I’m sitting here at 33x with no intention to retire.

No one thinks that when they’re young. Hell I didn’t think that when I was 60. Then one day it hits you squarely between the ears. Really, one day you wake up and decide.

 

[Nugget]

Malta Retirement Visa

 

[-OZ-]

No one thinks that when they’re young. Hell I didn’t think that when I was 60. Then one day it hits you squarely between the ears. Really, one day you wake up and decide.

I hear that. And with part of my job working with federal employees while they’re leaving us, I get reminded every day. But, at least for now, I’m working to buy that lake house we’ll retire to.

 

[-OZ-]

so, it looks like we will lose 8 out of our 50 employees on our team, but only one of my “peer group” of 14 can be given the deferred resignation (3rd iteration). I don’t plan on applying for it, but it’s tempting. The offer basically is paying through December, with PTO starting in September. So 4 months paid whereas the first offer was for 8 months.

The unsaid but apparently likely scenario, if not enough people take these voluntarily is a forced reduction of the same amount. We have a few unfilled positions so the end result hopefully will be fewer than 8 people leaving.

 

[Sleestak]

I took the DoD DRP+VERA offer. My last day in the office was Tuesday. It was a wistful day. Nice going-away gathering.

I am on administrative leave until my September 30 retirement date. Full pay and benefits to sit around and annoy the wife!

I plan to go back as a contractor in October. Probably on an "as needed" basis. They are willing to go to full time but I'm not interested in that, and I don't think that will be warranted from their perspective. Just a little hand-holding that phases out over the next few years.

Two months into not working. Absolutely glorious. I don't even think about work. The dogs are loving this.

That thing I wrote above about returning as an "as needed" contractor? Yeah, forget about that. Every day is too good to fritter away under fluorescents. I'm 55 and my own master!

 

[bcat01]

I took the DoD DRP+VERA offer. My last day in the office was Tuesday. It was a wistful day. Nice going-away gathering.

I am on administrative leave until my September 30 retirement date. Full pay and benefits to sit around and annoy the wife!

I plan to go back as a contractor in October. Probably on an "as needed" basis. They are willing to go to full time but I'm not interested in that, and I don't think that will be warranted from their perspective. Just a little hand-holding that phases out over the next few years.

Two months into not working. Absolutely glorious. I don't even think about work. The dogs are loving this.

That thing I wrote above about returning as an "as needed" contractor? Yeah, forget about that. Every day is too good to fritter away under fluorescents. I'm 55 and my own master!

The thought of returning to work after I retire has never crossed my mind. I only think of finding a way to retire earlier.

 

[JohnnyU]

I just found out a guy I used to work with died in his sleep at 49. You never know when your ticket will get punched, so my advice is to retire as soon as you’re able to. He was very active and full of life, until he wasn’t.

 

[JohnnyU]

I woke up yesterday and it was Saturday, so we took a drive to a small town just across the border in Wisconsin to walk around and do some looking inside some shops, then went to my favorite place to get pizza and sat outside to eat and relax and watch the train go by. I woke up this morning and it was Saturday again. It’s almost noon, so I think I’ll take a nap. The best part is that tomorrow is Saturday again.

 

[BeTheMatch]

I woke yesterday and it was Saturday, so we took a drive to a small town here in Minnesota to walk around and do some looking inside some shops, then went to my favorite pizza place and sat outside to eat and relax and watch the train go by. I woke up this morning and it was Saturday again. It’s almost noon, so I think I’ll take a nap. The best part is that tomorrow is Saturday again.

Stillwater?

 

[JohnnyU]

I woke yesterday and it was Saturday, so we took a drive to a small town here in Minnesota to walk around and do some looking inside some shops, then went to my favorite pizza place and sat outside to eat and relax and watch the train go by. I woke up this morning and it was Saturday again. It’s almost noon, so I think I’ll take a nap. The best part is that tomorrow is Saturday again.

Stillwater?

Actually it was Stockholm, WI, not MN. Since corrected. Then pizza in Nelson, WI. Both close to MN border.

Edit I like Stillwater too, but the traffic in that town is ridiculous.

 

[-OZ-]

I just found out a guy I used to work with died in his sleep at 49. You never know when your ticket will get punched, so my advice is to retire as soon as you’re able to. He was very active and full of life, until he wasn’t.

Yeah, I received word earlier this week that a friend I had lost touch with these past few years died from pancreatic cancer. Moved super quick. Dude was still active duty and leaves 4 kids behind.

Definitely hits home.

 

[JohnnyU]

I just found out a guy I used to work with died in his sleep at 49. You never know when your ticket will get punched, so my advice is to retire as soon as you’re able to. He was very active and full of life, until he wasn’t.

Yeah, I received word earlier this week that a friend I had lost touch with these past few years died from pancreatic cancer. Moved super quick. Dude was still active duty and leaves 4 kids behind.

Definitely hits home.

What scares me is that I was 17 years older than him.

 

[-OZ-]

I just found out a guy I used to work with died in his sleep at 49. You never know when your ticket will get punched, so my advice is to retire as soon as you’re able to. He was very active and full of life, until he wasn’t.

Yeah, I received word earlier this week that a friend I had lost touch with these past few years died from pancreatic cancer. Moved super quick. Dude was still active duty and leaves 4 kids behind.

Definitely hits home.

What scares me is that I was 17 years older than him.

It’s sort of a crap shoot.

My friend was my age and a good runner, athlete kept himself in shape.

Fwiw, not trying to compare but just to say your feelings are normal and many (all?) of us can commiserate.

 

[JohnnyU]

I just found out a guy I used to work with died in his sleep at 49. You never know when your ticket will get punched, so my advice is to retire as soon as you’re able to. He was very active and full of life, until he wasn’t.

Yeah, I received word earlier this week that a friend I had lost touch with these past few years died from pancreatic cancer. Moved super quick. Dude was still active duty and leaves 4 kids behind.

Definitely hits home.

What scares me is that I was 17 years older than him.

It’s sort of a crap shoot.

My friend was my age and a good runner, athlete kept himself in shape.

Fwiw, not trying to compare but just to say your feelings are normal and many (all?) of us can commiserate.

I’ve probably seen a half dozen co-workers die. A couple of them were right before they planned to retire and one right after retiring. And three in their 40s.

 

[Senor Schmutzig]

I took the DoD DRP+VERA offer. My last day in the office was Tuesday. It was a wistful day. Nice going-away gathering.

I am on administrative leave until my September 30 retirement date. Full pay and benefits to sit around and annoy the wife!

I plan to go back as a contractor in October. Probably on an "as needed" basis. They are willing to go to full time but I'm not interested in that, and I don't think that will be warranted from their perspective. Just a little hand-holding that phases out over the next few years.

Two months into not working. Absolutely glorious. I don't even think about work. The dogs are loving this.

That thing I wrote above about returning as an "as needed" contractor? Yeah, forget about that. Every day is too good to fritter away under fluorescents. I'm 55 and my own master!

I U.

 

[Senor Schmutzig]

I just found out a guy I used to work with died in his sleep at 49. You never know when your ticket will get punched, so my advice is to retire as soon as you’re able to. He was very active and full of life, until he wasn’t.

After having a heart attack in February at 54, my focus and interest in retiring as soon as I can have increased considerably.

 

[Orange&Blue]

federal employee and not sure why i didn't realize this earlier, but all this time I thought my annuity calculation was 1.1% after 30 years. So I always thought I could retire as early as age 52. I knew that wasn't possible and had the goal of 57. I was on track for that.

Apparently it's 30 years and 62 year old.

this is depressing.

 

[Terminalxylem]

This week has been the first time I've really felt the urge to retire. Early 50s here with young-ish kids. Not sure why, but it hit me like a ton of bricks earlier this week. We're close, but not quite in a position to retire but it sure has me considering moving to fewer days of work per week. Anyone else?

I’ve been part time most of my career, usually 75-90% FTE, but switched to half time about 5 years ago. Highly recommended, as it makes working far more enjoyable.

That will provide more time to trial what you envision as your retired lifestyle.

 

[-OZ-]

federal employee and not sure why i didn't realize this earlier, but all this time I thought my annuity calculation was 1.1% after 30 years. So I always thought I could retire as early as age 52. I knew that wasn't possible and had the goal of 57. I was on track for that.

Apparently it's 30 years and 62 year old.

this is depressing.

62 / 20, Not 30. I’ll be at 22 years at 62 if I wait that long.
Doesn’t help you of course.

 

[InDitkaWeTrust]

This week has been the first time I've really felt the urge to retire. Early 50s here with young-ish kids. Not sure why, but it hit me like a ton of bricks earlier this week. We're close, but not quite in a position to retire but it sure has me considering moving to fewer days of work per week. Anyone else?

I’ve been part time most of my career, usually 75-90% FTE, but switched to half time about 5 years ago. Highly recommended, as it makes working far more enjoyable.

That will provide more time to trial what you envision as your retired lifestyle.

That would be ideal. My practice runs 4 days a week, so I put in 32 clinical hours plus admin time (~4hrs) on Friday. As of right now, it's not practical to cut back any more days without hiring an associate dentist, which is always an adventure.

Interestingly, I was approached by a broker who had a client looking to buy in my specific town a few weeks back. I spoke to him and it didn't work out, but I certainly ran the numbers on selling, which are fast approaching tenable. Once I sell, the option to work locum tenens opens up as well as part time gigs at local health clinics and whatnot. It's such a difficult decision to sell a practice that you've built nearly from scratch over decades, though.

 

[snogger]

My plan is to be retired in 5 years, at 62, so met with my financial advisor last week.
Told him our house will be paid off a year before that, we normal at most carry one car payment, and do not have any other large expenditures.
Due to my wife's fear of flying, and motion sickness, most of our vacations will be driving around the US and Canada.. In other words.. pretty cheap.

He said we should plan for $12,000/year per person for Health until we can get on Medicare.
As I currently work remotely developing and administrating the Microsoft Power Platform, I could pickup a couple months of consultant work to pay for that.

Between my wife's investments from when she worked for the school district, my 401(k) and my Roth, we should be good until I hit 67, at which time I'll start S.S. ( if it still exists )

By waiting until I am 67, and no huge plans to spend a lot of money, we could basically live off S.S. and use the 401(k), Roth and Wife's funds for trips.

 

[jwb]

It's happening - AI is definitely kicking this self-employed copywriter to the curb.

My wife (63) retired last year, and she loves it. I still have a few steady clients that I hope to keep, but my workload and income have been cut by about 60% this year. I'm 59 and have zero interest in reinventing myself, getting any kind of job, or putting my nose to the grindstone to get more work. I had a nice 20+ year career doing this, and I'm ready to take it easier. So basically I'm semi-retired right now. I take every friday off, and my 4-day work week has about 10-15 hours of "do them whenever I want" tasks.

No pensions here - just SS. But we don't have kids, have saved/invested quite well, and live a fairly simple life with zero debt besides a cheap covid-mortgage I'm in no hurry to pay off. For health, even if the premiums go up, hopefully the ACA we've been using will still be there until Medicare.

Unless I magically get more clients (a slight possibility - I have a column on Inc. so I am always "out there"), we'll be making some changes next year. The first one will be me, with my new-found time, taking over the lawn work from the (somewhat expensive) services we use. I'm super excited - finally getting the tractor I envisioned when we moved here four years ago!

 

[Terminalxylem]

This week has been the first time I've really felt the urge to retire. Early 50s here with young-ish kids. Not sure why, but it hit me like a ton of bricks earlier this week. We're close, but not quite in a position to retire but it sure has me considering moving to fewer days of work per week. Anyone else?

I’ve been part time most of my career, usually 75-90% FTE, but switched to half time about 5 years ago. Highly recommended, as it makes working far more enjoyable.

That will provide more time to trial what you envision as your retired lifestyle.

That would be ideal. My practice runs 4 days a week, so I put in 32 clinical hours plus admin time (~4hrs) on Friday. As of right now, it's not practical to cut back any more days without hiring an associate dentist, which is always an adventure.

Interestingly, I was approached by a broker who had a client looking to buy in my specific town a few weeks back. I spoke to him and it didn't work out, but I certainly ran the numbers on selling, which are fast approaching tenable. Once I sell, the option to work locum tenens opens up as well as part time gigs at local health clinics and whatnot. It's such a difficult decision to sell a practice that you've built nearly from scratch over decades, though.

With the locums option providing a ton of flexibility, and only so much precious time to enjoy your children before they become youngish adults, I’d pull the trigger ASAP, assuming finances allow it. Selling the practice isn’t going to get any easier by waiting.

 

[InDitkaWeTrust]

This week has been the first time I've really felt the urge to retire. Early 50s here with young-ish kids. Not sure why, but it hit me like a ton of bricks earlier this week. We're close, but not quite in a position to retire but it sure has me considering moving to fewer days of work per week. Anyone else?

I’ve been part time most of my career, usually 75-90% FTE, but switched to half time about 5 years ago. Highly recommended, as it makes working far more enjoyable.

That will provide more time to trial what you envision as your retired lifestyle.

That would be ideal. My practice runs 4 days a week, so I put in 32 clinical hours plus admin time (~4hrs) on Friday. As of right now, it's not practical to cut back any more days without hiring an associate dentist, which is always an adventure.

Interestingly, I was approached by a broker who had a client looking to buy in my specific town a few weeks back. I spoke to him and it didn't work out, but I certainly ran the numbers on selling, which are fast approaching tenable. Once I sell, the option to work locum tenens opens up as well as part time gigs at local health clinics and whatnot. It's such a difficult decision to sell a practice that you've built nearly from scratch over decades, though.

With the locums option providing a ton of flexibility, and only so much precious time to enjoy your children before they become youngish adults, I’d pull the trigger ASAP, assuming finances allow it. Selling the practice isn’t going to get any easier by waiting.

That is a very solid point. I appreciate your perspective.

 

[FarFromHome]

Anyone run into this?

I'm 50. I could realistically retire now. I get military disability money. I have full health coverage through the VA. I have a federal pension in waiting to cash. They penalize you 5% for every year earlier then 57 so I'm kinda waiting a bit. We have lived financially responsible our entire lives really. Nearly own our home. I could get away with retiring right now. What's stopping me? My jealous wife. Shes a full time nurse that makes great money. I just don't think she could ever accept me retiring before her. So I picked up a job that has the least responsibility I've ever had. I'll show her until she caves. Ha ha

 

[gianmarco]

Anyone run into this?

I'm 50. I could realistically retire now. I get military disability money. I have full health coverage through the VA. I have a federal pension in waiting to cash. They penalize you 5% for every year earlier then 57 so I'm kinda waiting a bit. We have lived financially responsible our entire lives really. Nearly own our home. I could get away with retiring right now. What's stopping me? My jealous wife. Shes a full time nurse that makes great money. I just don't think she could ever accept me retiring before her. So I picked up a job that has the least responsibility I've ever had. I'll show her until she caves. Ha ha

Jealous, unreasonable wife?

Nope, never ran into one or even heard of one.

 

[InDitkaWeTrust]

Anyone run into this?

I'm 50. I could realistically retire now. I get military disability money. I have full health coverage through the VA. I have a federal pension in waiting to cash. They penalize you 5% for every year earlier then 57 so I'm kinda waiting a bit. We have lived financially responsible our entire lives really. Nearly own our home. I could get away with retiring right now. What's stopping me? My jealous wife. Shes a full time nurse that makes great money. I just don't think she could ever accept me retiring before her. So I picked up a job that has the least responsibility I've ever had. I'll show her until she caves. Ha ha

I've joked that in retirement I'd pick up a part time gig at Home Depot putting together grills/mowers/etc so I don't have to face the public again and to get the discount.

Retire if you want and are able. If your wife doesn't like it she can kick rocks...or retire with you.

 

[-OZ-]

Anyone run into this?

I'm 50. I could realistically retire now. I get military disability money. I have full health coverage through the VA. I have a federal pension in waiting to cash. They penalize you 5% for every year earlier then 57 so I'm kinda waiting a bit. We have lived financially responsible our entire lives really. Nearly own our home. I could get away with retiring right now. What's stopping me? My jealous wife. Shes a full time nurse that makes great money. I just don't think she could ever accept me retiring before her. So I picked up a job that has the least responsibility I've ever had. I'll show her until she caves. Ha ha

We’re kind of in the opposite position. She works part time at a job that pays horribly but she likes. But more importantly, she volunteers a lot.
I keep working. I’m somewhat jealous but not enough to change anything.

 

[InDitkaWeTrust]

Anyone run into this?

I'm 50. I could realistically retire now. I get military disability money. I have full health coverage through the VA. I have a federal pension in waiting to cash. They penalize you 5% for every year earlier then 57 so I'm kinda waiting a bit. We have lived financially responsible our entire lives really. Nearly own our home. I could get away with retiring right now. What's stopping me? My jealous wife. Shes a full time nurse that makes great money. I just don't think she could ever accept me retiring before her. So I picked up a job that has the least responsibility I've ever had. I'll show her until she caves. Ha ha

We’re kind of in the opposite position. She works part time at a job that pays horribly but she likes. But more importantly, she volunteers a lot.
I keep working. I’m somewhat jealous but not enough to change anything.

My wife has 2.5 years until she's eligible for the state retirement plan (and health insurance). I think that'll be her cue to retire unless she absolutely loves her job.

 

[JohnnyU]

Anyone run into this?

I'm 50. I could realistically retire now. I get military disability money. I have full health coverage through the VA. I have a federal pension in waiting to cash. They penalize you 5% for every year earlier then 57 so I'm kinda waiting a bit. We have lived financially responsible our entire lives really. Nearly own our home. I could get away with retiring right now. What's stopping me? My jealous wife. Shes a full time nurse that makes great money. I just don't think she could ever accept me retiring before her. So I picked up a job that has the least responsibility I've ever had. I'll show her until she caves. Ha ha

We’re kind of in the opposite position. She works part time at a job that pays horribly but she likes. But more importantly, she volunteers a lot.
I keep working. I’m somewhat jealous but not enough to change anything.

A lot of folks, me included, wake up one morning and decide 100% to retire . Having seen too many co-workers kick the bucket, either before retirement, or shortly after, I didn't want to be one of those people. I'm in a good spot financially and didn't want to fall over dead at my desk and never get to experience a full retirement. There are too many other things to enjoy in this world than working. I did that for over 42 years in my field, and 50+ years overall. Isn't that enough?

 

[Senor Schmutzig]

A lot of folks, me included, wake up one morning and decide 100% to retire . Having seen too many co-workers kick the bucket, either before retirement, or shortly after, I didn't want to be one of those people. I'm in a good spot financially and didn't want to fall over dead at my desk and never get to experience a full retirement. There are too many other things to enjoy in this world than working. I did that for over 42 years in my field, and 50+ years overall. Isn't that enough?

Yes, yes it is.

 

[-OZ-]

Anyone run into this?

I'm 50. I could realistically retire now. I get military disability money. I have full health coverage through the VA. I have a federal pension in waiting to cash. They penalize you 5% for every year earlier then 57 so I'm kinda waiting a bit. We have lived financially responsible our entire lives really. Nearly own our home. I could get away with retiring right now. What's stopping me? My jealous wife. Shes a full time nurse that makes great money. I just don't think she could ever accept me retiring before her. So I picked up a job that has the least responsibility I've ever had. I'll show her until she caves. Ha ha

We’re kind of in the opposite position. She works part time at a job that pays horribly but she likes. But more importantly, she volunteers a lot.
I keep working. I’m somewhat jealous but not enough to change anything.

A lot of folks, me included, wake up one morning and decide 100% to retire . Having seen too many co-workers kick the bucket, either before retirement, or shortly after, I didn't want to be one of those people. I'm in a good spot financially and didn't want to fall over dead at my desk and never get to experience a full retirement. There are too many other things to enjoy in this world than working. I did that for over 42 years in my field, and 50+ years overall. Isn't that enough?

Understood and agreed. I just haven’t reached the point yet where life without the job would be better than with it. One “problem” is all but two years expenses is held in retirement accounts. I know there are ways like SEPP to get those funds, but I’m not work quite ready for that yet. Then there’s that we want a lake house, but also have kids in school. If we had both places our expenses would jump quite a bit. Doable soon if I’m working, not if not.

Then of course there’s the fear of the unknown. I do my best to plan around that while considering its effect.

 

[JohnnyU]

Anyone run into this?

I'm 50. I could realistically retire now. I get military disability money. I have full health coverage through the VA. I have a federal pension in waiting to cash. They penalize you 5% for every year earlier then 57 so I'm kinda waiting a bit. We have lived financially responsible our entire lives really. Nearly own our home. I could get away with retiring right now. What's stopping me? My jealous wife. Shes a full time nurse that makes great money. I just don't think she could ever accept me retiring before her. So I picked up a job that has the least responsibility I've ever had. I'll show her until she caves. Ha ha

We’re kind of in the opposite position. She works part time at a job that pays horribly but she likes. But more importantly, she volunteers a lot.
I keep working. I’m somewhat jealous but not enough to change anything.

A lot of folks, me included, wake up one morning and decide 100% to retire . Having seen too many co-workers kick the bucket, either before retirement, or shortly after, I didn't want to be one of those people. I'm in a good spot financially and didn't want to fall over dead at my desk and never get to experience a full retirement. There are too many other things to enjoy in this world than working. I did that for over 42 years in my field, and 50+ years overall. Isn't that enough?

Understood and agreed. I just haven’t reached the point yet where life without the job would be better than with it. One “problem” is all but two years expenses is held in retirement accounts. I know there are ways like SEPP to get those funds, but I’m not work quite ready for that yet. Then there’s that we want a lake house, but also have kids in school. If we had both places our expenses would jump quite a bit. Doable soon if I’m working, not if not.

Then of course there’s the fear of the unknown. I do my best to plan around that while considering its effect.

Of course. I was speaking only if one is financially able / ready to retire. I never understood those that retire and go back to work because they are bored. There is no way on God's green earth would I ever go back to work. Hell, if I can't think of things to do other than work, then I'm not trying. Sorry, but 42 years of work is enough. I like to believe in turning the chapter on that and finish out the rest of my life with new and exciting adventures. I cannot tell you how much of a freedom feeling I have now.

 

[Peggy]

Anyone run into this?

I'm 50. I could realistically retire now. I get military disability money. I have full health coverage through the VA. I have a federal pension in waiting to cash. They penalize you 5% for every year earlier then 57 so I'm kinda waiting a bit. We have lived financially responsible our entire lives really. Nearly own our home. I could get away with retiring right now. What's stopping me? My jealous wife. Shes a full time nurse that makes great money. I just don't think she could ever accept me retiring before her. So I picked up a job that has the least responsibility I've ever had. I'll show her until she caves. Ha ha

We’re kind of in the opposite position. She works part time at a job that pays horribly but she likes. But more importantly, she volunteers a lot.
I keep working. I’m somewhat jealous but not enough to change anything.

A lot of folks, me included, wake up one morning and decide 100% to retire . Having seen too many co-workers kick the bucket, either before retirement, or shortly after, I didn't want to be one of those people. I'm in a good spot financially and didn't want to fall over dead at my desk and never get to experience a full retirement. There are too many other things to enjoy in this world than working. I did that for over 42 years in my field, and 50+ years overall. Isn't that enough?

Understood and agreed. I just haven’t reached the point yet where life without the job would be better than with it. One “problem” is all but two years expenses is held in retirement accounts. I know there are ways like SEPP to get those funds, but I’m not work quite ready for that yet. Then there’s that we want a lake house, but also have kids in school. If we had both places our expenses would jump quite a bit. Doable soon if I’m working, not if not.

Then of course there’s the fear of the unknown. I do my best to plan around that while considering its effect.

Of course. I was speaking only if one is financially able / ready to retire. I never understood those that retire and go back to work because they are bored. There is no way on God's green earth would I ever go back to work. Hell, if I can't think of things to do other than work, then I'm not trying. Sorry, but 42 years of work is enough. I like to believe in turning the chapter on that and finish out the rest of my life with new and exciting adventures. I cannot tell you how much of a freedom feeling I have now.

100%
I've got so much to do I can't figure out how I ever survived having a full time job.

 

[snogger]

Anyone run into this?

I'm 50. I could realistically retire now. I get military disability money. I have full health coverage through the VA. I have a federal pension in waiting to cash. They penalize you 5% for every year earlier then 57 so I'm kinda waiting a bit. We have lived financially responsible our entire lives really. Nearly own our home. I could get away with retiring right now. What's stopping me? My jealous wife. Shes a full time nurse that makes great money. I just don't think she could ever accept me retiring before her. So I picked up a job that has the least responsibility I've ever had. I'll show her until she caves. Ha ha

Jealous, unreasonable wife?

Nope, never ran into one or even heard of one.

For some reason, when I read your response to my wife, she didn't think it was as funny.

 

[snogger]

Anyone run into this?

I'm 50. I could realistically retire now. I get military disability money. I have full health coverage through the VA. I have a federal pension in waiting to cash. They penalize you 5% for every year earlier then 57 so I'm kinda waiting a bit. We have lived financially responsible our entire lives really. Nearly own our home. I could get away with retiring right now. What's stopping me? My jealous wife. Shes a full time nurse that makes great money. I just don't think she could ever accept me retiring before her. So I picked up a job that has the least responsibility I've ever had. I'll show her until she caves. Ha ha

We’re kind of in the opposite position. She works part time at a job that pays horribly but she likes. But more importantly, she volunteers a lot.
I keep working. I’m somewhat jealous but not enough to change anything.

A lot of folks, me included, wake up one morning and decide 100% to retire . Having seen too many co-workers kick the bucket, either before retirement, or shortly after, I didn't want to be one of those people. I'm in a good spot financially and didn't want to fall over dead at my desk and never get to experience a full retirement. There are too many other things to enjoy in this world than working. I did that for over 42 years in my field, and 50+ years overall. Isn't that enough?

Understood and agreed. I just haven’t reached the point yet where life without the job would be better than with it. One “problem” is all but two years expenses is held in retirement accounts. I know there are ways like SEPP to get those funds, but I’m not work quite ready for that yet. Then there’s that we want a lake house, but also have kids in school. If we had both places our expenses would jump quite a bit. Doable soon if I’m working, not if not.

Then of course there’s the fear of the unknown. I do my best to plan around that while considering its effect.

Of course. I was speaking only if one is financially able / ready to retire. I never understood those that retire and go back to work because they are bored. There is no way on God's green earth would I ever go back to work. Hell, if I can't think of things to do other than work, then I'm not trying. Sorry, but 42 years of work is enough. I like to believe in turning the chapter on that and finish out the rest of my life with new and exciting adventures. I cannot tell you how much of a freedom feeling I have now.

Fully with you. My countdown is on now, less than 5 years.
I know I won't be bored.
There are so many things I want to do around here, with no time to do it all.

I do plan to work part-time consulting. Like 3 months a year, as I do enjoy the work I do in the Power Platform.
Plus need to cover medical until 5 years later when I hit 67 and can get S.S. And Medicare.

 

[FarFromHome]

Anyone run into this?

I'm 50. I could realistically retire now. I get military disability money. I have full health coverage through the VA. I have a federal pension in waiting to cash. They penalize you 5% for every year earlier then 57 so I'm kinda waiting a bit. We have lived financially responsible our entire lives really. Nearly own our home. I could get away with retiring right now. What's stopping me? My jealous wife. Shes a full time nurse that makes great money. I just don't think she could ever accept me retiring before her. So I picked up a job that has the least responsibility I've ever had. I'll show her until she caves. Ha ha

Jealous, unreasonable wife?

Nope, never ran into one or even heard of one.

For some reason, when I read your response to my wife, she didn't think it was as funny.

Ask her if she would be okay waking up and going to work everyday knowing you retired.

 

[jamny]

It's happening - AI is definitely kicking this self-employed copywriter to the curb.

My wife (63) retired last year, and she loves it. I still have a few steady clients that I hope to keep, but my workload and income have been cut by about 60% this year. I'm 59 and have zero interest in reinventing myself, getting any kind of job, or putting my nose to the grindstone to get more work. I had a nice 20+ year career doing this, and I'm ready to take it easier. So basically I'm semi-retired right now. I take every friday off, and my 4-day work week has about 10-15 hours of "do them whenever I want" tasks.

No pensions here - just SS. But we don't have kids, have saved/invested quite well, and live a fairly simple life with zero debt besides a cheap covid-mortgage I'm in no hurry to pay off. For health, even if the premiums go up, hopefully the ACA we've been using will still be there until Medicare.

Unless I magically get more clients (a slight possibility - I have a column on Inc. so I am always "out there"), we'll be making some changes next year. The first one will be me, with my new-found time, taking over the lawn work from the (somewhat expensive) services we use. I'm super excited - finally getting the tractor I envisioned when we moved here four years ago!

Similar thing for me. As a voice actor, AI has been really impacting my work. Most of my work is in corporate VO, which doesn't require as much emotion and is ripe for AI takeover. In our home in NY, I had a really good recording setup but here in Boise, we didn't really have much room for a proper setup. I wound up renting a space in 2021 in a small quiet building for my recording setup but last week I was told that the building was being sold and I have to vacate in the next 2 months. I don't think I can find another spot that works out so well so I'm in the process of cloning my voice and embracing AI. Honestly, with the advances being made, I don't think VO will be a viable occupation for many people within 2 or 3 years. I'll set something up in our walk-in closet for whatever jobs do come in from my existing clients but I'm done with the hustle and will see how AI works for me.
Honestly, it doesn't really bother me. It's time.

 

[JohnnyU]

Anyone run into this?

I'm 50. I could realistically retire now. I get military disability money. I have full health coverage through the VA. I have a federal pension in waiting to cash. They penalize you 5% for every year earlier then 57 so I'm kinda waiting a bit. We have lived financially responsible our entire lives really. Nearly own our home. I could get away with retiring right now. What's stopping me? My jealous wife. Shes a full time nurse that makes great money. I just don't think she could ever accept me retiring before her. So I picked up a job that has the least responsibility I've ever had. I'll show her until she caves. Ha ha

We’re kind of in the opposite position. She works part time at a job that pays horribly but she likes. But more importantly, she volunteers a lot.
I keep working. I’m somewhat jealous but not enough to change anything.

A lot of folks, me included, wake up one morning and decide 100% to retire . Having seen too many co-workers kick the bucket, either before retirement, or shortly after, I didn't want to be one of those people. I'm in a good spot financially and didn't want to fall over dead at my desk and never get to experience a full retirement. There are too many other things to enjoy in this world than working. I did that for over 42 years in my field, and 50+ years overall. Isn't that enough?

Understood and agreed. I just haven’t reached the point yet where life without the job would be better than with it. One “problem” is all but two years expenses is held in retirement accounts. I know there are ways like SEPP to get those funds, but I’m not work quite ready for that yet. Then there’s that we want a lake house, but also have kids in school. If we had both places our expenses would jump quite a bit. Doable soon if I’m working, not if not.

Then of course there’s the fear of the unknown. I do my best to plan around that while considering its effect.

Of course. I was speaking only if one is financially able / ready to retire. I never understood those that retire and go back to work because they are bored. There is no way on God's green earth would I ever go back to work. Hell, if I can't think of things to do other than work, then I'm not trying. Sorry, but 42 years of work is enough. I like to believe in turning the chapter on that and finish out the rest of my life with new and exciting adventures. I cannot tell you how much of a freedom feeling I have now.

Fully with you. My countdown is on now, less than 5 years.
I know I won't be bored.
There are so many things I want to do around here, with no time to do it all.

I do plan to work part-time consulting. Like 3 months a year, as I do enjoy the work I do in the Power Platform.
Plus need to cover medical until 5 years later when I hit 67 and can get S.S. And Medicare.

You’re eligible for Medicare at 65, not 67.

 

[jwb]

It's happening - AI is definitely kicking this self-employed copywriter to the curb.

My wife (63) retired last year, and she loves it. I still have a few steady clients that I hope to keep, but my workload and income have been cut by about 60% this year. I'm 59 and have zero interest in reinventing myself, getting any kind of job, or putting my nose to the grindstone to get more work. I had a nice 20+ year career doing this, and I'm ready to take it easier. So basically I'm semi-retired right now. I take every friday off, and my 4-day work week has about 10-15 hours of "do them whenever I want" tasks.

No pensions here - just SS. But we don't have kids, have saved/invested quite well, and live a fairly simple life with zero debt besides a cheap covid-mortgage I'm in no hurry to pay off. For health, even if the premiums go up, hopefully the ACA we've been using will still be there until Medicare.

Unless I magically get more clients (a slight possibility - I have a column on Inc. so I am always "out there"), we'll be making some changes next year. The first one will be me, with my new-found time, taking over the lawn work from the (somewhat expensive) services we use. I'm super excited - finally getting the tractor I envisioned when we moved here four years ago!

Similar thing for me. As a voice actor, AI has been really impacting my work. Most of my work is in corporate VO, which doesn't require as much emotion and is ripe for AI takeover. In our home in NY, I had a really good recording setup but here in Boise, we didn't really have much room for a proper setup. I wound up renting a space in 2021 in a small quiet building for my recording setup but last week I was told that the building was being sold and I have to vacate in the next 2 months. I don't think I can find another spot that works out so well so I'm in the process of cloning my voice and embracing AI. Honestly, with the advances being made, I don't think VO will be a viable occupation for many people within 2 or 3 years. I'll set something up in our walk-in closet for whatever jobs do come in from my existing clients but I'm done with the hustle and will see how AI works for me.
Honestly, it doesn't really bother me. It's time.

Yup, I totally understand that thought. It does sound like it's time for you too.

It did bug me a bit at first - it's tough to be replaced like this. But I'm sure if I worked hard enough I could probably hang on longer. I just don't want to work that hard anymore, especially on prospecting (which I always hated). I'd be pretty useful to some companies, but I'm not going to proactively find them.

 

[jamny]

It's happening - AI is definitely kicking this self-employed copywriter to the curb.

My wife (63) retired last year, and she loves it. I still have a few steady clients that I hope to keep, but my workload and income have been cut by about 60% this year. I'm 59 and have zero interest in reinventing myself, getting any kind of job, or putting my nose to the grindstone to get more work. I had a nice 20+ year career doing this, and I'm ready to take it easier. So basically I'm semi-retired right now. I take every friday off, and my 4-day work week has about 10-15 hours of "do them whenever I want" tasks.

No pensions here - just SS. But we don't have kids, have saved/invested quite well, and live a fairly simple life with zero debt besides a cheap covid-mortgage I'm in no hurry to pay off. For health, even if the premiums go up, hopefully the ACA we've been using will still be there until Medicare.

Unless I magically get more clients (a slight possibility - I have a column on Inc. so I am always "out there"), we'll be making some changes next year. The first one will be me, with my new-found time, taking over the lawn work from the (somewhat expensive) services we use. I'm super excited - finally getting the tractor I envisioned when we moved here four years ago!

Similar thing for me. As a voice actor, AI has been really impacting my work. Most of my work is in corporate VO, which doesn't require as much emotion and is ripe for AI takeover. In our home in NY, I had a really good recording setup but here in Boise, we didn't really have much room for a proper setup. I wound up renting a space in 2021 in a small quiet building for my recording setup but last week I was told that the building was being sold and I have to vacate in the next 2 months. I don't think I can find another spot that works out so well so I'm in the process of cloning my voice and embracing AI. Honestly, with the advances being made, I don't think VO will be a viable occupation for many people within 2 or 3 years. I'll set something up in our walk-in closet for whatever jobs do come in from my existing clients but I'm done with the hustle and will see how AI works for me.
Honestly, it doesn't really bother me. It's time.

Yup, I totally understand that thought. It does sound like it's time for you too.

It did bug me a bit at first - it's tough to be replaced like this. But I'm sure if I worked hard enough I could probably hang on longer. I just don't want to work that hard anymore, especially on prospecting (which I always hated). I'd be pretty useful to some companies, but I'm not going to proactively find them.

Same

It was already a challenge competing with lowballers on Fivver and the like. Now with AI, it's pointless. I never minded competing with my peers but that's not the case anymore.

 

[matttyl]

Anyone run into this?

I'm 50. I could realistically retire now. I get military disability money. I have full health coverage through the VA. I have a federal pension in waiting to cash. They penalize you 5% for every year earlier then 57 so I'm kinda waiting a bit. We have lived financially responsible our entire lives really. Nearly own our home. I could get away with retiring right now. What's stopping me? My jealous wife. Shes a full time nurse that makes great money. I just don't think she could ever accept me retiring before her. So I picked up a job that has the least responsibility I've ever had. I'll show her until she caves. Ha ha

We’re kind of in the opposite position. She works part time at a job that pays horribly but she likes. But more importantly, she volunteers a lot.
I keep working. I’m somewhat jealous but not enough to change anything.

A lot of folks, me included, wake up one morning and decide 100% to retire . Having seen too many co-workers kick the bucket, either before retirement, or shortly after, I didn't want to be one of those people. I'm in a good spot financially and didn't want to fall over dead at my desk and never get to experience a full retirement. There are too many other things to enjoy in this world than working. I did that for over 42 years in my field, and 50+ years overall. Isn't that enough?

Understood and agreed. I just haven’t reached the point yet where life without the job would be better than with it. One “problem” is all but two years expenses is held in retirement accounts. I know there are ways like SEPP to get those funds, but I’m not work quite ready for that yet. Then there’s that we want a lake house, but also have kids in school. If we had both places our expenses would jump quite a bit. Doable soon if I’m working, not if not.

Then of course there’s the fear of the unknown. I do my best to plan around that while considering its effect.

Of course. I was speaking only if one is financially able / ready to retire. I never understood those that retire and go back to work because they are bored. There is no way on God's green earth would I ever go back to work. Hell, if I can't think of things to do other than work, then I'm not trying. Sorry, but 42 years of work is enough. I like to believe in turning the chapter on that and finish out the rest of my life with new and exciting adventures. I cannot tell you how much of a freedom feeling I have now.

Fully with you. My countdown is on now, less than 5 years.
I know I won't be bored.
There are so many things I want to do around here, with no time to do it all.

I do plan to work part-time consulting. Like 3 months a year, as I do enjoy the work I do in the Power Platform.
Plus need to cover medical until 5 years later when I hit 67 and can get S.S. And Medicare.

You’re eligible for Medicare at 65, not 67.

…so long as you have 40 quarters of work (tax) history - or a spouse does/did. For 99% of folks, they are eligible “the first of the month in which you turn 65.”

 

[JohnnyU]

Anyone run into this?

I'm 50. I could realistically retire now. I get military disability money. I have full health coverage through the VA. I have a federal pension in waiting to cash. They penalize you 5% for every year earlier then 57 so I'm kinda waiting a bit. We have lived financially responsible our entire lives really. Nearly own our home. I could get away with retiring right now. What's stopping me? My jealous wife. Shes a full time nurse that makes great money. I just don't think she could ever accept me retiring before her. So I picked up a job that has the least responsibility I've ever had. I'll show her until she caves. Ha ha

We’re kind of in the opposite position. She works part time at a job that pays horribly but she likes. But more importantly, she volunteers a lot.
I keep working. I’m somewhat jealous but not enough to change anything.

A lot of folks, me included, wake up one morning and decide 100% to retire . Having seen too many co-workers kick the bucket, either before retirement, or shortly after, I didn't want to be one of those people. I'm in a good spot financially and didn't want to fall over dead at my desk and never get to experience a full retirement. There are too many other things to enjoy in this world than working. I did that for over 42 years in my field, and 50+ years overall. Isn't that enough?

Understood and agreed. I just haven’t reached the point yet where life without the job would be better than with it. One “problem” is all but two years expenses is held in retirement accounts. I know there are ways like SEPP to get those funds, but I’m not work quite ready for that yet. Then there’s that we want a lake house, but also have kids in school. If we had both places our expenses would jump quite a bit. Doable soon if I’m working, not if not.

Then of course there’s the fear of the unknown. I do my best to plan around that while considering its effect.

Of course. I was speaking only if one is financially able / ready to retire. I never understood those that retire and go back to work because they are bored. There is no way on God's green earth would I ever go back to work. Hell, if I can't think of things to do other than work, then I'm not trying. Sorry, but 42 years of work is enough. I like to believe in turning the chapter on that and finish out the rest of my life with new and exciting adventures. I cannot tell you how much of a freedom feeling I have now.

Fully with you. My countdown is on now, less than 5 years.
I know I won't be bored.
There are so many things I want to do around here, with no time to do it all.

I do plan to work part-time consulting. Like 3 months a year, as I do enjoy the work I do in the Power Platform.
Plus need to cover medical until 5 years later when I hit 67 and can get S.S. And Medicare.

You’re eligible for Medicare at 65, not 67.

…so long as you have 40 quarters of work (tax) history - or a spouse does/did. For 99% of folks, they are eligible “the first of the month in which you turn 65.”

Yes, most are eligible for Medicare at 65. As for SS mine is 66 and 10 months (born 1959). For those born in 1960 or later, the full retirement age for Social Security benefits is 67. It appeared @snogger was lumping SS and Medicare under the same eligibility unbrella, which is incorrect.

 

[InDitkaWeTrust]

It's happening - AI is definitely kicking this self-employed copywriter to the curb.

My wife (63) retired last year, and she loves it. I still have a few steady clients that I hope to keep, but my workload and income have been cut by about 60% this year. I'm 59 and have zero interest in reinventing myself, getting any kind of job, or putting my nose to the grindstone to get more work. I had a nice 20+ year career doing this, and I'm ready to take it easier. So basically I'm semi-retired right now. I take every friday off, and my 4-day work week has about 10-15 hours of "do them whenever I want" tasks.

No pensions here - just SS. But we don't have kids, have saved/invested quite well, and live a fairly simple life with zero debt besides a cheap covid-mortgage I'm in no hurry to pay off. For health, even if the premiums go up, hopefully the ACA we've been using will still be there until Medicare.

Unless I magically get more clients (a slight possibility - I have a column on Inc. so I am always "out there"), we'll be making some changes next year. The first one will be me, with my new-found time, taking over the lawn work from the (somewhat expensive) services we use. I'm super excited - finally getting the tractor I envisioned when we moved here four years ago!

Similar thing for me. As a voice actor, AI has been really impacting my work. Most of my work is in corporate VO, which doesn't require as much emotion and is ripe for AI takeover. In our home in NY, I had a really good recording setup but here in Boise, we didn't really have much room for a proper setup. I wound up renting a space in 2021 in a small quiet building for my recording setup but last week I was told that the building was being sold and I have to vacate in the next 2 months. I don't think I can find another spot that works out so well so I'm in the process of cloning my voice and embracing AI. Honestly, with the advances being made, I don't think VO will be a viable occupation for many people within 2 or 3 years. I'll set something up in our walk-in closet for whatever jobs do come in from my existing clients but I'm done with the hustle and will see how AI works for me.
Honestly, it doesn't really bother me. It's time.

Fascinating career. How long have you been active in voice acting?