It's almost time! Just one week away from the day I've been eagerly anticipating- my retirement. In 2019, I set my sights on 2024 as the year I would hang up my hat. Since then, I've been diligently preparing by saving as much as possible, sacrificing vacations and other activities to tick off financial security, and preparing retirement plans from the list.
Initially, I was going to call it a career last fall. However, there were several advantages to the three-month delay. So, I went with my gut feeling, zoomed out on the lens of life, chose Groundhog Day 2024, and gave a 7-month notice! Yes, that is 2/2/24. Not because of the see-the-shadow background, but unlike Bill Murrey in the movie, I will wake up every day to total freedom from that toxic culture, mandates, deadlines, and responsibilities other than my own.
Is it a good choice? Humans never know the right choice, but we have to make it and live with the decisions. I reviewed the numbers endlessly and came to the conclusion decreasing the risk of dying rich at the age of 70 yet broke at 92 years old was an easy decision. We never know, and as stated in the past posts, many of my friends who waited into the late 60s to retire passed just past 70. One fellow employee died before he retired, and another the day he was to retire.
One of the first things I realized is the best-made plans often need to be changed. Initially, I planned a three-week road trip, starting the day after I retired. That changed to going two weeks later. Then, it changed to a late March departure. But that became problematic, so it was moved to a middle February departure. Even that is questionable as I prepare this post. But one thing is sure: I'm looking forward to spending more time with my family, picking up new hobbies, and exploring the world at my own pace.
The critical point is that it does not matter. In 8 days, I will have my adjustable schedule and very few non-flexible demands. Exiting that toxic and unhealthy environment will be a progressive move toward health improvement. I am already feeling better, as my responsibilities have decreased as I transition.
A few months ago, I decided to wait to shave or cut my hair until I retired. I may stay longer because I do not have to look professional. As you can see below, I fit the part of a grumpy old mountain man well.
