Follow along with the video below to see how to install our site as a web app on your home screen.
Note: This feature may not be available in some browsers.
I've retired 3 times now, ages 42,56 and 63. I started working part time at O'Reilly's Auto parts here in town. 3 days a week and it's a lot of fun. Three times people have come in and said "you just can't stay retired can you".
My goodness this thread has taken a serious turn considering the somewhat light-hearted start reflecting Bill's wisdom after a year of retirement!
I'm with Bill...traffic is lighter at certain times of the day, and I choose to drive then. Naps are a wonderful thing - a gift from God - to be enjoyed as time and opportunity permits!
As to the serious among us I concur with the idea of saving early in life and remaining debt free. When I first started working out of college I invested 5%, next year 6%, etc until I had been working 15 years when I was putting 20+% into my investment account. After a 36-year career I was able to retire at 58 because I have no debt (except a little left on the house), and a pretty nice portfolio. I paid for my daughter's private college out of cash flow and I paid cash for each of my last three cars. Its a nice feeling to not owe anyone and BOY does it reduce the stress level! I have known people with hundreds of millions and they are not happy no matter how much they have, and known many who have great joy in their lives who live on comparatively little.
Finally, a word on happiness. My advice before retirement is find something to do that is more important than yourself and start doing it! Then keep doing it into retirement. Maybe it is coaching a little league team, teaching Sunday school, or helping in a retirement home. Whatever it is, do something that is bigger than you - you'll never be happier - no matter how much money you have, or don't have.
:rockon: