I did the floors in my house to get rid of the builder carpet. First time ever tackling a project like that. It turned out great. I wanted solid 3/4" hickory so ordered direct from a distributor and had it shipped to me. Spent months on the installation. Cutting out a section of carpet at a time and nailing in the new stuff so I did not have bare floor everywhere. Been 20 years and still looks fantastic. Lots of compliments, plus when I tell someone "I" installed it, even more so. Your laminate floor should be easier. I'm on pier and beam with wood subfloor. Just take your time with the install, plan well. Pull all the baseboards and go back with something nice. I cut existing door moldings for clearance but you may not need to. It a huge sense of pride when you do something yourself. Very ambitious! Good luck
@@ericlee2931how can you say that without knowing their circumstances and more importantly what their outgoings will be? Hope you’re not a fortune teller.
Good for you guys and I think that's very brave . I'm 64 and at around 500K debt free single man but I think I'll be waiting till January 2026 . Good luck
I'm 6 months away from retiring from my teaching job. I was planning to go one more year but, my husband and your videos have really encouraged me to just do it now. I am 59 years old and so ready to start enjoying my life.
8 weeks and 3 days to retire, after 44 years in the sheet metal industry. Every day I'm a little less nervous about it and your channel (among others) really helped me. I thank you
I'm 56 and retired from my government job two weeks ago. I don't think it's even sunk in yet that I never have to go back to work again. It still feels like I'm just on annual leave.
Love your updates; I literally watch your videos during my lunch break for inspiration!! I have 5 and a half years left before I can retire from 25 years of teaching~~I’m so ready!!😉
I'm 57 and 3.5 years out from retiring from teaching. I've been volunteering at various animal shelters in Illinois. All of cats/dogs have been shelter. I am so burned out and sick of teaching, it's killing me. I hope I can make it until 2028.
I'm 59 and 2.5 years from retiring when I turn 62. I'm sick of working too, and I'm really excited about retiring. Like you, I keep wondering if I can make it another two and a half years.
I just hit a milestone on my retirement journey. the next milestone is March 31st, when I’ll have my Roth 401k maxed for the year. after that I just need to get to June 2025. Just six months from now I will cheerfully accept a pink slip at that point, if that’s how this plays out. If i don’t get the desired pink slip, I’ll resign soon after. I’ll be 58. Old enough to be prepared and young enough to life a great new life in retirement. I can’t wait! At this point the money is no longer my main concern. In the past I always had a number in mind, i won’t make that number. Not far off but not there. Now i don’t care at all about that. I am very concerned about running out of time. My entire mindset has changed.
Thanks for the pep talk! I've got five months to go to early retirement! I feel like there is going to be A LOT of decompression. We adopted a shelter dog in January and she is wonderful, so I can't wait until this happens for you. We don't have any carpets, so it was easy for us to take up the area rugs for a few months until she got the hang of things. I know the timing might not work out for you, but it was kind of nice to get the dog in the winter and to have an extra reason to be at home while the weather was bad. Then when summer came, the dog was fully adjusted, so it was a fun transition to start taking her places with us.
I completely agree with you. I retired three years ago at 56 after working for a state government for almost 30 years. We only get one chance at life, there are no do-overs. If you can retire early, free yourself and live the life you deserve.
Same here - been in a government job for 25 years, but these past few years have really worn me down, so I'm retiring in March, aged 60. I'm certainly looking to freeing myself from something I've no longer any interest in and find not good for my health, both mentally and physically.
Julie - you make me smile and chuckle - coming up on 11 months post retirement - and it still feels magical ... every day ... I have a pet kitty and we are like Frick and Frack - I enjoy his company so much. I am slowly going through years of stuff and it is easier than I thought to get rid of things I am not using - retirement makes these chores a lot easier - my goal is to be fully down to just what I am really using - with no fluff - by 69-70 years old which is 3 years from now. I love watching your videos. xxxx
Soon to be 4 years for me since retiring and I feel just as you describe in your videos, Julie. If it's a honeymoon phase, it's been a long one for me!! Love it!! I appreciate that we share the same sentiment on relaxing and/or reading as legit ways to spend time. I do not buy into having to be "productive" constantly and feel that quiet enjoyment is a kind of productivity for my mind. After years of juggling everything during most waking hours, this is bliss. Thanks for another video! 💜
Hi Julie! Fairly new subscriber here. When I divorced, I remodeled my marital home & now rent it out. The rental income is going to help me retire in a year & a half. I ripped out carpet & some subfloors, then layed new flooring - all by myself. My daughters helped with painting & some trim work, but the majority of the time, it was just me, working alone- cutting & painting door trim & basboards, repairing drywall, building a small floating deck, repairing window screens. Pretty much everything but plumbing & electrical. I loved it & it was great therapy after the divorce. I also got a puppy during that time. And now we travel together. I camp in my minivan & our last adventure was last fall along the Natchez Trace Parkway. So you got this! You tube is definitely your friend. Love your videos! They are really encouraging! Merry Christmas & an amazing New Year to you! I'm uber excited for 2025!
I follow Rocky, and also buy his coffee. Even though I already have 2 dogs, his videos do make me want to adopt a shelter dog. My 2 dogs are everything to me. I hope you find your new best friend.
I am 58, and I will continue full-time for the next six months and then part-time for the six months after that. I plan to retire on December 31, 2025. I enjoy these videos about early retirement and getting over the worries about whether I have enough saved. It sounds as though Happy on Monday is enjoying her early retirement. Good for her.
Your journey is very encouraging. Too often, we are sold on the idea of needing a million or more to retire. You are brave to tackle a big flooring project! Looking forward to learning about the progress you make during the next couple of months. I would not want to take out the toilet either 🙂
7 more months and I can't wait! I anticipate spending my time much like you. I love to garden and want to do some big outside projects and have a long list of home improvement projects to do. Good for you on planning to replace your floors yourself. Excited for you about getting a dog. My dog gives me so much company! I have watched several of Rocky's videos and I agree, it makes me want to adopt more! Merry Christmas to you and yours!!♥🎄
I love seeing your channel grow, Julie; yay! I hope you'll introduce us to your new furbaby next year and good luck with the floors. My partner laid the flooring in my rental and he zipped through it and it looks incredible. I am confident you will do a wonderful job and if not, who cares, a pro can come in and finish it just fine. Elated to see that retirement is treating you so well - people talk about a pregnancy glow but you've got a retirement glow! I can't wait to get mine. Thanks for another wonderful video.
Like you, I retired 6 months ago. My dog has been great. She loves car rides and we go to the park twice a day. It’s been weird not to be working. Still adjusting here. Good luck with the flooring.
Fellow teacher here - I’m 55 and retire in 7 months🎉🎉. I literally cannot wait . I have a rescue dog who we adopted when I went down to part time work to ease myself into retirement . We love her ! Happy Christmas Julie 🎄
You earned your good times in every way. You worked hard for decades. You made calculations about how to budget for the future. You put your plans into action. Success is not an accident. It reminds me of an old broker ad on television. "People don't plan to fail, they just fail to plan."
I retired early also, and am at the six month mark as well. Unfortunately my mom died unexpectedly my first week of retirement so it has been a rough start but I’m thankful I did not have to work while settling her estate and grieving. It took a while to take pressure off of myself with timelines, after a so many years of having to get all of my things done on weekends it was an adjustment to realize if I don’t get it done today I’ll do it tomorrow! Also surprised at how much less I spend than I thought I would. No regrets! When I was exploring whether I could leave early and crunching numbers I thought “how much money is a year of my life worth?” Decided I had enough to support myself and gave my notice.
I hope i can do that without feeling guilty I’m so tired of feeling guilty do you have any tips ? I’m 59 I’m retiring at 62 I’ve got to for me I’m done I’ve done so much for so long 😞
Well I know for myself, work stress was really affecting my health and wellbeing. I knew if I kept working it would not only be bad for me, but also for my family. I felt like work was sucking years from my life. I want to stick around and enjoy my grandkids! You just have to feel that you've earned this and your family will benefit too. 🙂
I'm 58 years old and will be switching to part-time work in March 2025 to focus on my health and spend time with my 13 year dog companion. I've put delaying the switch due to fear of not running out of money, but out of the blue my health has been declining the last few months. I regret not semi-retiring sooner.
Another inspiration vlog. Did I hear you say you're putting vinyl planking in your bathroom? Think twice about that, it may buckle if it gets wet. Worth spending a bit more to get it tiled or at least get professional advice about the wet areas. I layed plank flooring years ago, it's actually quite good fun watching it come together, just take your time. Good luck.
I have 2 rescue dogs. The male is a pit bull mix and the sweetest boy. The female is a German Shepherd American bully mix. They keep me active and their love is unconditional. 🥰
Way to go! Feb. '25 will make 2 years for me. I still love retirement! I am developing a small property in the Texas Hill Country. The funding is "a little at a time." I just finished Phase One in November. Next phase is getting water on it. Hope to have that complete in 2025. At that point, I can begin to spend time in the Hill Country. It's been a dream for decades!!
I really smiled when I read your comment "I still break out in a huge smile every time I remember I 'm retired". I can imagine my own smiling face when I ll retire early very soon. Thanks Julie❤
I still feel like I'm on an extended vacation since I've only been retired for 3 months now. It does feel amazing through and I'm prioritizing my health and fitness which I did before I retired but now have way more time and energy to do it. I watch Rocky on occasion. He does such wonderful work with those dogs. Getting new floors in your house will make a huge difference. My advice? you need knee pads - good ones!
We have wood floors and a 70 pound dog. I would recommend to have many rugs. Dogs nails on the floor can be noisy. Looking forward to seeing the new flooring😊.
My wife and I went the rescue dog route with an "American Classic" (aka: mutt that's mostly Pit Bull) that was dumped off a the shelter because she had heart worms (and was the reason why she'd been in there for four months with no adoption prospects). However, we brought "Sweet Pea" home, got her fixed up right as rain after a year's worth of treatments, and now three years later she's an integral part of our family. There is little in this life that can compare to the unconditional love freely given by a properly loved "pup". You'll love him/her when you find the right one (take your time and make the rounds when you are ready....you'll feel that bond when you meet the "Chosen One" for you). As for retirement, I look forward to it someday; but like so many, I am fearful that I don't yet have enough (so I get lost in that mental maze of "what is enough" -- you know the drill). Someday!
👍You look happy and at peace It amazes me how when I was working days and time seem longer BUT when you're free and happy Time goes super fast Already four years in at 57 Six months honeymoon phase BUT since you retire with a PLAN and purpose it will last😊 Looking forward to hearing about your projects and pet for next year Off to a wonderful start Enjoy being happy!
I retired 14 months ago and just turned 57 last week. I tell everyone it was the best decision I’ve ever made and encourage them to do the same. Don’t work until you die! Great video as always!! ❤️
I retired at 57 two years and two months ago. It has taken me two years to finally decompress after working 35 years in a very stressful job as a bus/train operator in public transit. I worked for a toxic company, with toxic passengers and dealt with toxic motorists. I'm loving retirement. I now live a full and happy life. Really like this channel.
I worked until the traditional 65. Most of my old coworkers want to retire early, but the caveat of health insurance is a necessity, so medicare needs to be in place. I have yet to watch even ONE video or read any comments on a video from people who retired early who regretted it. NOT ONE. I have also lost no less than eight coworkers who never even sniffed social security or retirement, who died suddenly or after a brief illness the past ten or so years. The moral of the story is RETIRE as soon as you feasibly and financially can. Time is promised to none of us.
Just curious: did you have any ailments like back pain when you were working? My back keeps going out and I’m thinking it’s because I don’t want to work anymore and my brain is trying to tell me something…that I need to quit or something because my mental stress is impacting my physical body. Did this ever happen to you when you were still employed? And if so, how did you deal with it at the time? Thank you!
Yes I did!! I have talked about this in several videos. I have sciatica and arthritis. Both are like 5 times better since I retired. It's crazy! Having the time to get enough sleep, exercise, and eat healthy, not to mention no stress, make a HUGE difference! 😃
I have several videos about healthcare costs. th-cam.com/video/N3kSHc_KRqI/w-d-xo.html th-cam.com/video/IF0qdWXkN-k/w-d-xo.html th-cam.com/video/AGXWM9-zot4/w-d-xo.html
Retired at 58.. I am now 59 1/2. Living off of rental income from 3 houses I own and dividend income with total of $3000/mo. I retired in the Philippines and I live like a king here on$3,000/mo. At 62, I will collect $2500/mo from SS
6 months ago when you first retired, i left a comment that women need to learn to invest. You said you are scared. Learn to he more confident because you are smart enough. Seriously. Buying stocks is same as buying eggs. Since i left the comment i went from 250k to 750k in 5 months with PLTR and TSLA stocks. No risk because I studied these two companies for 3 years. Retirement is great. Don't miss work at all.
I've yet to meet a single person who doesnt enjoy retirement-they all say you'll never look back. One thing I'll ask, has there been anything you hadn't expected from retirement or has anything arisen that you hadn't thought about or considered? Oh, and you can't beat having a dog - you'll never be lonely 😊
I think the most unexpected thing for me has been how much less money I'm spending so far than I had budgeted for! And with the great year we've had in the market my portfolio has increased more than I had anticipated. Yes, I'm excited about getting a dog. 😁🐕
@HappyonMonday I've heard so many say how much less you spend in retirement - I remember a newly retired colleague once saying to me, he didn't realise how much it cost to go to work.
I did the floors in my house to get rid of the builder carpet. First time ever tackling a project like that. It turned out great. I wanted solid 3/4" hickory so ordered direct from a distributor and had it shipped to me. Spent months on the installation. Cutting out a section of carpet at a time and nailing in the new stuff so I did not have bare floor everywhere. Been 20 years and still looks fantastic. Lots of compliments, plus when I tell someone "I" installed it, even more so. Your laminate floor should be easier. I'm on pier and beam with wood subfloor. Just take your time with the install, plan well. Pull all the baseboards and go back with something nice. I cut existing door moldings for clearance but you may not need to. It a huge sense of pride when you do something yourself. Very ambitious! Good luck
Thank you for the tips!! I am a little nervous but I figured I would try. If it doesn't go well I will hire help! 😁
Very clever method for installing your new wood flooring.
Man I can't wait, 327k saved so far, once we reach 500k we will be debt-free and ready to retire too. My wife and I are both 54 currently.
Yay!! You're getting close! 😃
You do realize that 500k as a retirement goal is a bit on the low side for 2 people. I would say that's on the low side for a single person
@@ericlee2931 With SS, we will be able to maintain a $5000 monthly budget all the way until 88.
@@ericlee2931how can you say that without knowing their circumstances and more importantly what their outgoings will be? Hope you’re not a fortune teller.
Good for you guys and I think that's very brave . I'm 64 and at around 500K debt free single man but I think I'll be waiting till January 2026 .
Good luck
I retired from teaching 7 years ago. I was so burned out. Retirement is a million times better than I imagined
That's great!! Me too!! ☺
I love your closing quotes - they’re the best :)
Thanks! I'm glad you like them! 😁
I'm 6 months away from retiring from my teaching job. I was planning to go one more year but, my husband and your videos have really encouraged me to just do it now. I am 59 years old and so ready to start enjoying my life.
Congrats!! 🎉 That's so exciting! 😃
So excited about the future pooch! Having a rescue pup is so fulfilling. I have 2 big foster fails sleeping in front of me right now. 😴😴
Awww! 🥰 My last dog was a shelter dog. ☺
8 weeks and 3 days to retire, after 44 years in the sheet metal industry. Every day I'm a little less nervous about it and your channel (among others) really helped me. I thank you
Congrats!! 🎉8 weeks is soon! 😃You are very welcome - I'm glad I was helpful!
Happy for you. Enjoy your retirement!
I'm 56 and retired from my government job two weeks ago. I don't think it's even sunk in yet that I never have to go back to work again. It still feels like I'm just on annual leave.
Well congrats to you! 🎉It takes a while to get used to it. Give yourself time! ☺
I retired in April and I don't miss work at all.
Congrats!! 🎉I don't either! 😁
Love your updates; I literally watch your videos during my lunch break for inspiration!! I have 5 and a half years left before I can retire from 25 years of teaching~~I’m so ready!!😉
Thank you - I love that! 😃 I used to watch TH-cam on my lunch breaks too!
I'm 57 and 3.5 years out from retiring from teaching. I've been volunteering at various animal shelters in Illinois. All of cats/dogs have been shelter. I am so burned out and sick of teaching, it's killing me. I hope I can make it until 2028.
I feel your pain! It is a high burn out job. Hang in there!! 🙂
I'm 59 and 2.5 years from retiring when I turn 62. I'm sick of working too, and I'm really excited about retiring. Like you, I keep wondering if I can make it another two and a half years.
@@steve-r4o5k My last 2 years were the hardest. 🙂
@@HappyonMondayyou are mot kidding!!!! Everyday is like…. Uuuug
I just hit a milestone on my retirement journey. the next milestone is March 31st, when I’ll have my Roth 401k maxed for the year. after that I just need to get to June 2025. Just six months from now I will cheerfully accept a pink slip at that point, if that’s how this plays out. If i don’t get the desired pink slip, I’ll resign soon after. I’ll be 58. Old enough to be prepared and young enough to life a great new life in retirement. I can’t wait! At this point the money is no longer my main concern. In the past I always had a number in mind, i won’t make that number. Not far off but not there. Now i don’t care at all about that. I am very concerned about running out of time. My entire mindset has changed.
Yay - congrats to you! 🎉 June will be here before you know it. 😁
I love how happy you are in your retirement. Makes me even more excited. Only 2 1/2 weeks left for me!
Thank you! Wow 2 1/2 weeks is so close!! Yay! 😀
Thanks for the pep talk! I've got five months to go to early retirement! I feel like there is going to be A LOT of decompression.
We adopted a shelter dog in January and she is wonderful, so I can't wait until this happens for you. We don't have any carpets, so it was easy for us to take up the area rugs for a few months until she got the hang of things. I know the timing might not work out for you, but it was kind of nice to get the dog in the winter and to have an extra reason to be at home while the weather was bad. Then when summer came, the dog was fully adjusted, so it was a fun transition to start taking her places with us.
Yay - 5 months isn't long! 😃 Yeah, I just want to get my floors done first, then I'll look for the right dog for me. ☺
I love Rocky. Good for you for adopting when the time comes. ❤
My last dog was a shelter dog. 🥰
You look amazing. Retiring suits you well. Happy holidays!
Thank you so much! Happy holidays to you too! ☺
I completely agree with you. I retired three years ago at 56 after working for a state government for almost 30 years. We only get one chance at life, there are no do-overs. If you can retire early, free yourself and live the life you deserve.
That's great - good for you!! Yes! We only get one chance at life! 👍
Same here - been in a government job for 25 years, but these past few years have really worn me down, so I'm retiring in March, aged 60. I'm certainly looking to freeing myself from something I've no longer any interest in and find not good for my health, both mentally and physically.
@@wildnfrantic1015 Good for you! March will be here before you know it! 😃
Julie - you make me smile and chuckle - coming up on 11 months post retirement - and it still feels magical ... every day ... I have a pet kitty and we are like Frick and Frack - I enjoy his company so much. I am slowly going through years of stuff and it is easier than I thought to get rid of things I am not using - retirement makes these chores a lot easier - my goal is to be fully down to just what I am really using - with no fluff - by 69-70 years old which is 3 years from now. I love watching your videos. xxxx
That's great!! I love hearing that! Thank you. ☺
Fellow teacher here again. You already know I love all your videos. This is for the algorithm.
Thank you!! ☺
Soon to be 4 years for me since retiring and I feel just as you describe in your videos, Julie. If it's a honeymoon phase, it's been a long one for me!! Love it!! I appreciate that we share the same sentiment on relaxing and/or reading as legit ways to spend time. I do not buy into having to be "productive" constantly and feel that quiet enjoyment is a kind of productivity for my mind. After years of juggling everything during most waking hours, this is bliss. Thanks for another video! 💜
That's awesome!! We're kindred spirits! ☺
Hi Julie! Fairly new subscriber here. When I divorced, I remodeled my marital home & now rent it out. The rental income is going to help me retire in a year & a half. I ripped out carpet & some subfloors, then layed new flooring - all by myself. My daughters helped with painting & some trim work, but the majority of the time, it was just me, working alone- cutting & painting door trim & basboards, repairing drywall, building a small floating deck, repairing window screens. Pretty much everything but plumbing & electrical. I loved it & it was great therapy after the divorce. I also got a puppy during that time. And now we travel together. I camp in my minivan & our last adventure was last fall along the Natchez Trace Parkway. So you got this! You tube is definitely your friend. Love your videos! They are really encouraging! Merry Christmas & an amazing New Year to you! I'm uber excited for 2025!
Wow that's awesome! I love doing projects by myself. It makes me feel like a boss! You did a lot! Merry Christmas to you too!! ☺
I follow Rocky, and also buy his coffee. Even though I already have 2 dogs, his videos do make me want to adopt a shelter dog. My 2 dogs are everything to me. I hope you find your new best friend.
He's the BEST!! I need to be patient because it will be a while, but I am excited!! 😁
I am 58, and I will continue full-time for the next six months and then part-time for the six months after that. I plan to retire on December 31, 2025. I enjoy these videos about early retirement and getting over the worries about whether I have enough saved. It sounds as though Happy on Monday is enjoying her early retirement. Good for her.
Congrats! That's only a year away! 😀
I'm 58 as well and was going to do the same but, recently, I'm thinking stuff it. I'll do the 6 months full-time then just give it away completely.
@@spencerdavies2530 You have to do whatever feels right! 😁
Your journey is very encouraging. Too often, we are sold on the idea of needing a million or more to retire. You are brave to tackle a big flooring project! Looking forward to learning about the progress you make during the next couple of months. I would not want to take out the toilet either 🙂
I'm so glad! I totally agree. We do not need a million dollars to retire! Yeah we'll see how it goes with the flooring. LOL. 😄
I want to come along for the floor install!! I know it would be different than your usual content.But I would love it!!
It will be a few months before I start it, but I will try to make some videos about it! 😁
7 more months and I can't wait! I anticipate spending my time much like you. I love to garden and want to do some big outside projects and have a long list of home improvement projects to do. Good for you on planning to replace your floors yourself. Excited for you about getting a dog. My dog gives me so much company! I have watched several of Rocky's videos and I agree, it makes me want to adopt more! Merry Christmas to you and yours!!♥🎄
I can't wait for you! Thank you - Merry Christmas to you too! ☺
Love your attitude to rest and recover
Yes!! Thanks! ☺
love your channel
Thank you! ☺
I did my floors myself. You can do it!
Awesome! That's encouraging - thanks! 😁
I love seeing your channel grow, Julie; yay! I hope you'll introduce us to your new furbaby next year and good luck with the floors. My partner laid the flooring in my rental and he zipped through it and it looks incredible. I am confident you will do a wonderful job and if not, who cares, a pro can come in and finish it just fine. Elated to see that retirement is treating you so well - people talk about a pregnancy glow but you've got a retirement glow! I can't wait to get mine. Thanks for another wonderful video.
Thank you so much! I will definitley share my furbaby. ☺ You are very welcome! 😃
Way to go Julie be you and keep that momentum going.
Thank you!! ☺
I, too, have found I don't spend nearly as much money in retirement - good advice.
That's great! Thanks! ☺
Like you, I retired 6 months ago. My dog has been great. She loves car rides and we go to the park twice a day. It’s been weird not to be working. Still adjusting here. Good luck with the flooring.
Congrats! 🎉 I can't wait to get a dog! Thank you! ☺
Fellow teacher here - I’m 55 and retire in 7 months🎉🎉. I literally cannot wait .
I have a rescue dog who we adopted when I went down to part time work to ease myself into retirement . We love her !
Happy Christmas Julie 🎄
How exciting!! Congrats! 🎉 Nice! 🐕
For the algorithm. Thanks for the video!
You are braver than me in tackling the flooring. I am going to love watching your TH-cam channel as you show us the flooring install.
Well we'll see how it goes. LOL 😆
@ you will do a fabulous job. I can’t wait to see the finished project
You earned your good times in every way. You worked hard for decades. You made calculations about how to budget for the future. You put your plans into action. Success is not an accident. It reminds me of an old broker ad on television. "People don't plan to fail, they just fail to plan."
Thank you so much! I did do a lot of planning! I love that saying. ☺
I am so excited that you want to adopt a dog. Can’t wait to see him/her!!
Thanks - me too!! 😃
You rock Julie well done and I don't think you're gonna get bored with retirement.
Stay positive 👍
Thank you so much! ☺
I retired early also, and am at the six month mark as well. Unfortunately my mom died unexpectedly my first week of retirement so it has been a rough start but I’m thankful I did not have to work while settling her estate and grieving. It took a while to take pressure off of myself with timelines, after a so many years of having to get all of my things done on weekends it was an adjustment to realize if I don’t get it done today I’ll do it tomorrow! Also surprised at how much less I spend than I thought I would. No regrets! When I was exploring whether I could leave early and crunching numbers I thought “how much money is a year of my life worth?” Decided I had enough to support myself and gave my notice.
I'm so sorry about your mom. When I lost my mom it was really hard. I LOVE that, “How much money is a year of my life worth?” ☺
I am glad to hear your doing well with your retirement!!!!
Thank you!! ☺
I hope i can do that without feeling guilty I’m so tired of feeling guilty do you have any tips ? I’m 59 I’m retiring at 62 I’ve got to for me I’m done I’ve done so much for so long 😞
Well I know for myself, work stress was really affecting my health and wellbeing. I knew if I kept working it would not only be bad for me, but also for my family. I felt like work was sucking years from my life. I want to stick around and enjoy my grandkids! You just have to feel that you've earned this and your family will benefit too. 🙂
@ thank you so much I’m about there 😘👍😀
Super ready for my next job ….retirement!
Yay!! 😃
Merry Christmas!
Thanks! You too! 😁
I'm 58 years old and will be switching to part-time work in March 2025 to focus on my health and spend time with my 13 year dog companion. I've put delaying the switch due to fear of not running out of money, but out of the blue my health has been declining the last few months. I regret not semi-retiring sooner.
I'm sorry to hear that you're having health issues. 🙁 That's one of my biggest fears and one thing that pushed me to retire sooner.
Great video!!
Thank you! ☺
Good for you👍👍
Thanks!! ☺
Love love love my freedom!
Yay! Me too!! 😃
Another inspiration vlog. Did I hear you say you're putting vinyl planking in your bathroom? Think twice about that, it may buckle if it gets wet. Worth spending a bit more to get it tiled or at least get professional advice about the wet areas. I layed plank flooring years ago, it's actually quite good fun watching it come together, just take your time. Good luck.
Thanks! I'll look into that! 😁
I love Rocky's channel. I want to get a dog too when I retire.
@@amyks5004 Isn't it so sweet how he is with those dogs! 😊
It’s great seeing you do happy! I can’t wait until I’m on the retirement train! Can’t wait to see you get a dog! I life my four legged crew! ❤
Thank you!! I can't wait for you! It will be a while, but I will definitely share when I get a dog! 😁
I have 2 rescue dogs. The male is a pit bull mix and the sweetest boy. The female is a German Shepherd American bully mix. They keep me active and their love is unconditional. 🥰
My last dog was a rescue. I'm really looking forward to getting another dog! ☺
Way to go Julie! Love your top!
Thank you!! ☺
Way to go! Feb. '25 will make 2 years for me. I still love retirement! I am developing a small property in the Texas Hill Country. The funding is "a little at a time." I just finished Phase One in November. Next phase is getting water on it. Hope to have that complete in 2025. At that point, I can begin to spend time in the Hill Country. It's been a dream for decades!!
Thank you! Wow that sounds amazing! I bet it's beautiful there! 😀
I really smiled when I read your comment "I still break out in a huge smile every time I remember I 'm retired". I can imagine my own smiling face when I ll retire early very soon. Thanks Julie❤
I'm glad I made you smile! You will not believe how much you smile once you retire! 😁
❤
After each clip I keep saying out loud to myself “YESSSS”
I LOVE that!! Yes!! 😃
I still feel like I'm on an extended vacation since I've only been retired for 3 months now. It does feel amazing through and I'm prioritizing my health and fitness which I did before I retired but now have way more time and energy to do it. I watch Rocky on occasion. He does such wonderful work with those dogs. Getting new floors in your house will make a huge difference. My advice? you need knee pads - good ones!
I'm prioritizing my health too!! Knee pads is a GREAT idea!! Thanks! 😀
I'm 65 next October. Really struggling with the concept of retirement. I don't know why. I am financially secure. My wife has already retired.
It's a hard transition! I bet you'll love it. ☺
We have wood floors and a 70 pound dog. I would recommend to have many rugs. Dogs nails on the floor can be noisy. Looking forward to seeing the new flooring😊.
Yes I was thinking I would use area rugs in most rooms. Thanks! 😁
My wife and I went the rescue dog route with an "American Classic" (aka: mutt that's mostly Pit Bull) that was dumped off a the shelter because she had heart worms (and was the reason why she'd been in there for four months with no adoption prospects). However, we brought "Sweet Pea" home, got her fixed up right as rain after a year's worth of treatments, and now three years later she's an integral part of our family. There is little in this life that can compare to the unconditional love freely given by a properly loved "pup". You'll love him/her when you find the right one (take your time and make the rounds when you are ready....you'll feel that bond when you meet the "Chosen One" for you).
As for retirement, I look forward to it someday; but like so many, I am fearful that I don't yet have enough (so I get lost in that mental maze of "what is enough" -- you know the drill). Someday!
Oh I LOVE that story of how you found your Sweet Pea! 🥰 I will take my time and I'm sure I will find the right dog for me. ☺
👍You look happy and at peace It amazes me how when I was working days and time seem longer BUT when you're free and happy Time goes super fast Already four years in at 57 Six months honeymoon phase BUT since you retire with a PLAN and purpose it will last😊 Looking forward to hearing about your projects and pet for next year Off to a wonderful start Enjoy being happy!
Thank you! I agree time is flying by! ☺
I retired 14 months ago and just turned 57 last week. I tell everyone it was the best decision I’ve ever made and encourage them to do the same. Don’t work until you die! Great video as always!! ❤️
Yes 100% Don't work until you die!! Thanks Tony. ☺
I retired at 57 two years and two months ago. It has taken me two years to finally decompress after working 35 years in a very stressful job as a bus/train operator in public transit. I worked for a toxic company, with toxic passengers and dealt with toxic motorists. I'm loving retirement. I now live a full and happy life. Really like this channel.
Oh bless your heart! I can't even imagine how hard that job must have been. I'm glad you have finally decompressed and are ready to enjoy life! ☺
I worked until the traditional 65. Most of my old coworkers want to retire early, but the caveat of health insurance is a necessity, so medicare needs to be in place. I have yet to watch even ONE video or read any comments on a video from people who retired early who regretted it. NOT ONE. I have also lost no less than eight coworkers who never even sniffed social security or retirement, who died suddenly or after a brief illness the past ten or so years. The moral of the story is RETIRE as soon as you feasibly and financially can. Time is promised to none of us.
Thank you for sharing this! I completely agree. Time is promised to none of us! 🙂
I took a year of rest after retiring. I'm back!
That's wonderful! It takes a long time to decompress from all those years of work stress! ☺
Put your budget in a spreadsheet and adjust numbers when you have to. You'll be fine!
Yes I do that!! I love spreadsheets. 😁
Just curious: did you have any ailments like back pain when you were working? My back keeps going out and I’m thinking it’s because I don’t want to work anymore and my brain is trying to tell me something…that I need to quit or something because my mental stress is impacting my physical body. Did this ever happen to you when you were still employed? And if so, how did you deal with it at the time? Thank you!
Yes I did!! I have talked about this in several videos. I have sciatica and arthritis. Both are like 5 times better since I retired. It's crazy! Having the time to get enough sleep, exercise, and eat healthy, not to mention no stress, make a HUGE difference! 😃
Retirement is the best job that I have... :-)
Me too! 🤣
Good news. I have 5 more years before I can retire... at 60.
60 is much better than 65 or older!! 😁
Healthcare? Healthcare? Healthcare? what about HC costs?
I have several videos about healthcare costs. th-cam.com/video/N3kSHc_KRqI/w-d-xo.html th-cam.com/video/IF0qdWXkN-k/w-d-xo.html th-cam.com/video/AGXWM9-zot4/w-d-xo.html
I love having a dog. I am getting more exercise, which will help me live longer
Your dog is adorable!! I can't wait! 😁
@@HappyonMonday you will be a wonderful pet mom. You may get a husband while out walking the dog ❤️🥰🙂
@@FIRE_DrNinjaTurtle 🤣
Retired at 58.. I am now 59 1/2. Living off of rental income from 3 houses I own and dividend income with total of $3000/mo. I retired in the Philippines and I live like a king here on$3,000/mo. At 62, I will collect $2500/mo from SS
Nice! You planned well! 😁
Your first free Christmas soon! 🎉🎉🎉
Yay!! 😃🎄
6 months ago when you first retired, i left a comment that women need to learn to invest. You said you are scared. Learn to he more confident because you are smart enough. Seriously.
Buying stocks is same as buying eggs.
Since i left the comment i went from 250k to 750k in 5 months with PLTR and TSLA stocks. No risk because I studied these two companies for 3 years.
Retirement is great. Don't miss work at all.
I agree that women should learn and invest! The only thing that scared me was volatility. I'm over that now. Thanks! ☺
I've yet to meet a single person who doesnt enjoy retirement-they all say you'll never look back. One thing I'll ask, has there been anything you hadn't expected from retirement or has anything arisen that you hadn't thought about or considered? Oh, and you can't beat having a dog - you'll never be lonely 😊
I think the most unexpected thing for me has been how much less money I'm spending so far than I had budgeted for! And with the great year we've had in the market my portfolio has increased more than I had anticipated. Yes, I'm excited about getting a dog. 😁🐕
@HappyonMonday I've heard so many say how much less you spend in retirement - I remember a newly retired colleague once saying to me, he didn't realise how much it cost to go to work.
@@wildnfrantic1015 That's very true!! 😁
4 more long years!!!
@@kittycat6195 You'll make it!! 😄😊
I have 4 years too. I work clothing retail, the industry may get rid of me before the 4 years end.
🐕 ❤❤❤❤❤
Sure it's worth it, but most can't afford it.
That's very true. It take a LOT of hard work to get there.
plan on budgeting for paying a lot $$$ for a dog.
Yeah I've had dogs before. They're expensive! 😁