I left my old identity on a moments notice without even a backwards glance. I just hit 10 years of not working, it's been quite interesting. I love it. but it's not all happiness and joy. I checked off everything on my 'bucket list' and then I checked them all off twice just to be sure, now there is this unique feeling of having experienced _everything_ in this world that I want, and finding nothing in the outside world really fills that space permanently or completely. My main pursuit now is spiritual practice, the practice of Stillness and turning within. I enjoy just Being, hanging out in the house, making some coffee and cuddling with the kitty I rescued, staring out the window, contemplating life and enjoying nostalgic memories about how magical and mysterious life is. No matter what feeling arises with all this free time, it ALWAYS beats working!
I'm also approaching 10 years retired. I've had a similar experience. I also agree that retirement is far more enjoyable than work in the present work environment.
The old saying of " a terrible day fishing, is still better than the best day working" is my motto. I'm retiring 15 years early in a couple months........i hate my job and sacrificed saving very hard to get out of the rat race.
I had an interesting 30 year engineering career at a US national scientific laboratory. On my last day, a Friday, I went home and immediately changed my Facebook and LinkedIn status to retired. I’m proud of my career accomplishments but it only took me minutes to embrace retirement. That was 13 years ago.
Thank you Julie. This is one of your best videos yet. I am an introvert like you and can stay at home for a couple of days with little outside interaction. However, as you said a retiree must find a purpose otherwise retirement just won't be enjoyable. Thanks again for the video.
Hello Julie, I have never tied my identity to my job. My job has always been a paycheck. That is what holds me back from retiring. I am not financially comfortable enough to give that paycheck up yet. I have a plan and I know the day will come. You have a great channel. Thank you for the videos.
We need less $ than we thought. It’s really surprising. Also, at the same time our investments $ have been increasing. If we had known we would have retired at 60.
I retired at 60 years old last year and have NO REGRETS! Best decision of my life! I volunteer at the VA food pantry, involved in growing a food /flower garden, yoga, seeking nature and walking in the park/beach! After 8 months hiatus, my hubby told me I’m too bored ! I was bugging him and my family about petty things like who left a plate on the counter or who didn’t replace the toilet paper? I even took a part-time flexible job (2days a week), in a total different field and I love it (not in a corporate environment setting). I am free 5 days a week to do whatever I want, whenever I want! I am my own boss! Sometimes I will proclaim a “DO NOTHING DAY”! Like anything in life you can turn retirement into lemons or lemonade, it’s totally up to you! 🤷🏾♀️😊
I don’t understand why some dread retirement or fear a lack of what to do. I am close to retirement, 3 years. I think of for those who their work is all they have in life, It’s probably pretty scary to leave the daily routine. Love your videos. ❤
I agree that it is essential to ask the "what am I going to do after I retire" question. When I retired I had an entire drawer full of plans for hobby projects that I had wanted to do while working, but never had time. Now I do, and I'm enjoying the heck out of my hobbies now! (Three years in)
This is a very typical issue when work was your life. Zero life work balance. When you get home toss those work keys in s drawer, do not go work at home there's always tomorrow the get work done. Have to separate work from your life. When you retire you'll have a better way to enjoy your life, family, friends, etc.. good video.
My work was my life for more than 20 years, and I Loved it. Then, things changed and I no longer loved the new iteration, so after trying to find a way to make it work for me (scaling back on hours, moving to a different program) I realized I needed to go, so I left and started my own business. I’ve been gradually moving away from my old workaholic identity, and I’m not sure how much I’ll work again in the future. I seem to have plenty to do, and I no longer enjoy the “rush” of stress that used to feel exciting.
I took retirement just over a year ago. It’s been a difficult transition, to say the least. Be careful and be extra certain that you are ready for a huge change of life. May you find inner peace.
I have less than two years before I retire. I have wondered how I will really feel once I cut the cord! I’m like you, I always make a list and feel very satisfied when I mark something off! I will definitely do that when I retire as I always have things to do at home. I’m looking forward to scrapbooking and doing some volunteer work for our local rescue. They always need help and I’m very passionate about helping animals.
Looking for your next video is my daily routine 😊. I had a sudden retirement, but I knew my numbers before that happened. I am glad that we are introverts and are enjoying retirement. I have never heard of that book. I am off to get it and read it so that I can recommend it to my friends
I don't think I will miss working once retired. And i can spend days by myself at home. But i think having a social connection is important. I will look into my local senior center when getting close to retirement.
Three more shifts to go for me - I'm a shift worker so I've been saying "goodbye" to colleagues the past few days which has been difficult as I've known many of them for over 20 years. I think it's important to remember though that they are - in general - colleagues and *not* friends, no matter how well we get on. I'm under no illusions how quickly I'll be forgotten when I walk out of the door for the last time... Covid and its aftermath was like a dress rehearsal for retirement - I realised how satisfying it is to go for a walk or bike ride somewhere new. I was relieved when my local swimming pool eventually reopened - I missed it and go a lot more now as I appreciate it more. I bought a piano keyboard during Covid but since returning to the office I haven't practiced it as much as I would like - something I will rectify when I have more time on my hands. I have also volunteered for a museum (as a subtitler) for years and could do more of this - and maybe even see if I can get paid to do it...! I also plan to catch up on reading and box sets as we get into winter. Time will tell but I'm confident I won't have much difficulty filling the days...
I retired earlier this year at 55 after working at the same place for 37 years. I’m still getting used to retirement. Taking it one day at a time is comforting to me. Everything in moderation is what makes me happy.
I like reading the comments for ideas on what to do during retirement. I’m not crazy about volunteering because that feels like a commitment/job. I’m the person that would be the last to leave work in order to get everything done. At one of my jobs, I was order(gently) to take my hour lunch break. I had to leave the office. So, reading what people do helps me think of things that I could try to do. Thanks!
I'm retiring to the couch..... for at least the first year. I'm an introvert as well and enjoy my own company. But I do need to get a little more physical once I retire. Working nights as a nurse has really done me in! I hope you enjoyed your time away with your daughter.
Never heard of this phrase, though I was aware of the concept. In retrospect, being as burned out as I was when I retired allowed me to transition well into this new chapter of life. Also, as my job as the leader of a non-profit was based on my values, leaving it it did not make my values or purpose leave. I have just transferred them to my now smaller world of family, friends, and neighbors.
I've seen this over and over from fellow military retirees who can't let go of their military identity (my half-brother is a Prime example - he still harasses (friendly!) me and our brother-in-law with the old military inter-service rivalry, whereas we both are well over it). It seems to be an especially prominent feature of US culture - we ARE our jobs. Me? No. I'm only still working as I've two boys I promised to get through college. Otherwise, I'd be GONZO! 😁
I think it is easier for most teachers to retire. Retirement just feels like an extended summer vacation! It felt that way for me for the first few years after retirement but not as much now.
I’m a teacher at 3 1/2 years left. I’m off this week for Thanksgiving and I have been so restless! I keep thinking is this what I’m gonna feel like when I’m retired for real? But it takes a few days for me to adjust when we’re on a break, I know by the end of the week I’ll be enjoying myself and not wanting to go back. And then next week I’ll be so stressed out and I wish that I was off again! The emotions are unexpected and sometimes hard to handle.
Retired early 4 years ago. Don't know how people have time to work but have a friend who's identity is so much tied to his profession he is scared of being force retired at 65 and wealthy. He's on unemployment now. What you speak of is real.
I do most of these things already like travel, spending time with family, and attending events. Most of this costs money. You can only spend so much time with family since most have their own lives, families and/or work. I’m lucky I can work from home so can accomplish a lot. I am just working now to fill up my day. Not interested in volunteering. It is usually boring and you work with people more annoying than former co-workers. It also ties you down and a commitment. You might as well work and make money.
There's no way I'd have this syndrome. I can do what I do for a living as a retirement hobby if I really wanted to. But I stay away from computers during my free time. I have other hobbies I enjoy. I'm an introvert too and solo boardgaming goes well with it if you enjoy exercising the brain.
haha that's hilarious! I do the same thing, to do list, even if it's a minor/small thing like raking the leaves or laundry. not retired yet but I always try to accomplish something everyday even if it's a small thing like vacuuming, etc. great vid always, be cool if you add some bloopers at the end. lol
I don’t understand why some dread retirement or fear a lack of what to do. I am close to retirement, 3 years. I think of for those who their work is all they have in life, It’s probably pretty scary to leave the daily routine. Love your videos. ❤
I thrive on being retired. No feeling lost, purposeless, no missing anything from work.
I only wish I had retired earlier! 🎉
Me too!! 😁
I left my old identity on a moments notice without even a backwards glance. I just hit 10 years of not working, it's been quite interesting. I love it. but it's not all happiness and joy. I checked off everything on my 'bucket list' and then I checked them all off twice just to be sure, now there is this unique feeling of having experienced _everything_ in this world that I want, and finding nothing in the outside world really fills that space permanently or completely. My main pursuit now is spiritual practice, the practice of Stillness and turning within. I enjoy just Being, hanging out in the house, making some coffee and cuddling with the kitty I rescued, staring out the window, contemplating life and enjoying nostalgic memories about how magical and mysterious life is. No matter what feeling arises with all this free time, it ALWAYS beats working!
I see various posters say to have a plan of what you’ll do after retirement. I just not want to worry about work and just hang out with my dog..
That's amazing! Thank you for sharing. I agree that free time always beats working!! 😁
I'm also approaching 10 years retired. I've had a similar experience. I also agree that retirement is far more enjoyable than work in the present work environment.
The old saying of " a terrible day fishing, is still better than the best day working" is my motto.
I'm retiring 15 years early in a couple months........i hate my job and sacrificed saving very hard to get out of the rat race.
That is my goal.
I am a professional TH-cam watcher and commenter.
😆
Love it!
LOL
That's funny. :)
Meee tooo!! 😂 👍🏽
You give me something to look forward to. I’m an introvert like you and look forward to all the rest and quiet time.
It's amazing!! ☺
I had an interesting 30 year engineering career at a US national scientific laboratory. On my last day, a Friday, I went home and immediately changed my Facebook and LinkedIn status to retired. I’m proud of my career accomplishments but it only took me minutes to embrace retirement. That was 13 years ago.
That's awesome! I Love hearing that! 😀
Thank you Julie. This is one of your best videos yet. I am an introvert like you and can stay at home for a couple of days with little outside interaction. However, as you said a retiree must find a purpose otherwise retirement just won't be enjoyable. Thanks again for the video.
You're welcome and thank you!! 🙂
Having a healthy identity beyond work is very important
@@pedrozatravel I agree!! 😊
Hello Julie, I have never tied my identity to my job. My job has always been a paycheck. That is what holds me back from retiring. I am not financially comfortable enough to give that paycheck up yet. I have a plan and I know the day will come. You have a great channel. Thank you for the videos.
Me too! I never tied my identity to my job but it's pretty common. Thank you and yes, your day will come! 😁
We need less $ than we thought. It’s really surprising. Also, at the same time our investments $ have been increasing. If we had known we would have retired at 60.
@@sct4040 That's awesome!! 😀
I retired at 60 years old last year and have NO REGRETS! Best decision of my life! I volunteer at the VA food pantry, involved in growing a food /flower garden, yoga, seeking nature and walking in the park/beach! After 8 months hiatus, my hubby told me I’m too bored ! I was bugging him and my family about petty things like who left a plate on the counter or who didn’t replace the toilet paper? I even took a part-time flexible job (2days a week), in a total different field and I love it (not in a corporate environment setting). I am free 5 days a week to do whatever I want, whenever I want! I am my own boss! Sometimes I will proclaim a “DO NOTHING DAY”! Like anything in life you can turn retirement into lemons or lemonade, it’s totally up to you! 🤷🏾♀️😊
I LOVE this!! Good for you! It sounds like you have a very fulfilling retirement! 😃
I love spending my retirement days doing volunteer work/projects!
@@crystalgattis1073 That's awesome! 😃
I don’t understand why some dread retirement or fear a lack of what to do. I am close to retirement, 3 years. I think of for those who their work is all they have in life, It’s probably pretty scary to leave the daily routine. Love your videos. ❤
It's hard for me to understand it too, but it is very common! Thank you! ☺
I agree that it is essential to ask the "what am I going to do after I retire" question. When I retired I had an entire drawer full of plans for hobby projects that I had wanted to do while working, but never had time. Now I do, and I'm enjoying the heck out of my hobbies now! (Three years in)
That's wonderful! I am also enjoying my hobbies! 😁
This is a very typical issue when work was your life. Zero life work balance. When you get home toss those work keys in s drawer, do not go work at home there's always tomorrow the get work done. Have to separate work from your life. When you retire you'll have a better way to enjoy your life, family, friends, etc.. good video.
I completely agree!! Thanks for sharing! 😁
My work was my life for more than 20 years, and I Loved it. Then, things changed and I no longer loved the new iteration, so after trying to find a way to make it work for me (scaling back on hours, moving to a different program) I realized I needed to go, so I left and started my own business. I’ve been gradually moving away from my old workaholic identity, and I’m not sure how much I’ll work again in the future. I seem to have plenty to do, and I no longer enjoy the “rush” of stress that used to feel exciting.
I took retirement just over a year ago. It’s been a difficult transition, to say the least. Be careful and be extra certain that you are ready for a huge change of life. May you find inner peace.
Thank you for sharing that! I have heard that it's difficult for some people. Thank you! ☺
I have less than two years before I retire. I have wondered how I will really feel once I cut the cord! I’m like you, I always make a list and feel very satisfied when I mark something off! I will definitely do that when I retire as I always have things to do at home. I’m looking forward to scrapbooking and doing some volunteer work for our local rescue. They always need help and I’m very passionate about helping animals.
That's not too long! I find that lists really help me! 😁
Looking for your next video is my daily routine 😊. I had a sudden retirement, but I knew my numbers before that happened. I am glad that we are introverts and are enjoying retirement. I have never heard of that book. I am off to get it and read it so that I can recommend it to my friends
I think it make a difference for some people! It's a great book! ☺
Good channel.
Im retiring 15 years early in 55 days, and like your content.
I followed the "fire" plan before it was even called that.
Thank you! 55 days will fly by - congrats!! 😀
I don't think I will miss working once retired. And i can spend days by myself at home. But i think having a social connection is important. I will look into my local senior center when getting close to retirement.
@@micaa3582 Yes, social connection is very important! Sounds like you have a good plan! 😁
14 years not working and never missed being in a concrete box with a locked steel door.
That's awesome!!! 🙂
Three more shifts to go for me - I'm a shift worker so I've been saying "goodbye" to colleagues the past few days which has been difficult as I've known many of them for over 20 years. I think it's important to remember though that they are - in general - colleagues and *not* friends, no matter how well we get on. I'm under no illusions how quickly I'll be forgotten when I walk out of the door for the last time...
Covid and its aftermath was like a dress rehearsal for retirement - I realised how satisfying it is to go for a walk or bike ride somewhere new. I was relieved when my local swimming pool eventually reopened - I missed it and go a lot more now as I appreciate it more. I bought a piano keyboard during Covid but since returning to the office I haven't practiced it as much as I would like - something I will rectify when I have more time on my hands. I have also volunteered for a museum (as a subtitler) for years and could do more of this - and maybe even see if I can get paid to do it...! I also plan to catch up on reading and box sets as we get into winter.
Time will tell but I'm confident I won't have much difficulty filling the days...
You're so close - congrats!! 🎉Sounds like you have lots of great plans! 😁
I’m retiring 12/31 yippie after 40 years. So looking forward to.
Congrats!! Yay! 🎉
Not a big fan of social activities. I am o.k. in small doses, but if too much water cooler activity, my brain works on making an exit.
Me too!! 😄
I retired earlier this year at 55 after working at the same place for 37 years. I’m still getting used to retirement. Taking it one day at a time is comforting to me. Everything in moderation is what makes me happy.
That's awesome! Congrats! One day at a time is a great way to do it. ☺
I like reading the comments for ideas on what to do during retirement. I’m not crazy about volunteering because that feels like a commitment/job. I’m the person that would be the last to leave work in order to get everything done. At one of my jobs, I was order(gently) to take my hour lunch break. I had to leave the office. So, reading what people do helps me think of things that I could try to do. Thanks!
@@monikaw1369 That's awesome! I was also often the last to leave work. 🫤
Great points Julie. Felt these when I retired from my first job. Yet, better prepped for when I leave my next job real soon! 😊
That's great! You will be better prepared! 😁
I won’t have any issue leaving this career when I finally get to retire ❤❤
I didn't either! 😁
I also like having a daily to do list
☺
I'm retiring to the couch..... for at least the first year. I'm an introvert as well and enjoy my own company. But I do need to get a little more physical once I retire. Working nights as a nurse has really done me in! I hope you enjoyed your time away with your daughter.
I did a lot of resting my first couple months. You need it to decompress!! We had a wonderful time - thank you!! ☺
I love lists too! Maintaining structure and routine really help after years of working.
It does!! I'm glad to hear other people say that too!! 😁
Good stuff. 👍👍🎉
Thanks! ☺
Never heard of this phrase, though I was aware of the concept. In retrospect, being as burned out as I was when I retired allowed me to transition well into this new chapter of life. Also, as my job as the leader of a non-profit was based on my values, leaving it it did not make my values or purpose leave. I have just transferred them to my now smaller world of family, friends, and neighbors.
That's wonderful! Good for you! ☺
I've seen this over and over from fellow military retirees who can't let go of their military identity (my half-brother is a Prime example - he still harasses (friendly!) me and our brother-in-law with the old military inter-service rivalry, whereas we both are well over it). It seems to be an especially prominent feature of US culture - we ARE our jobs.
Me? No. I'm only still working as I've two boys I promised to get through college. Otherwise, I'd be GONZO! 😁
I think you might be right, that it's a US culture thing! Interesting! 😀
I think it is easier for most teachers to retire. Retirement just feels like an extended summer vacation! It felt that way for me for the first few years after retirement but not as much now.
You're probably right!! 😄
Wes Moss has a 7 video series on TH-cam. Thank you so much for mentioning this. I have to do a video on his book
Oh cool - I didn't know he was on TH-cam! 😁
@ I am a researcher and pay close attention to everything you say 🙂
Though I have about 5 to 8 years to go. I am looking forward to slow traveling when I retire
That's awesome!! What an adventure that will be! 🙂
I’m a teacher at 3 1/2 years left. I’m off this week for Thanksgiving and I have been so restless! I keep thinking is this what I’m gonna feel like when I’m retired for real? But it takes a few days for me to adjust when we’re on a break, I know by the end of the week I’ll be enjoying myself and not wanting to go back. And then next week I’ll be so stressed out and I wish that I was off again! The emotions are unexpected and sometimes hard to handle.
That's totally normal! You just need a plan for what to do in retirement! ☺
Retired early 4 years ago. Don't know how people have time to work but have a friend who's identity is so much tied to his profession he is scared of being force retired at 65 and wealthy. He's on unemployment now. What you speak of is real.
Thanks for sharing this! There are lots of people like that. 😬
That’s how I feel right now 😢and it’s only been four weeks 😅
Oh no! Find some hobbies and activities that you love to do! 🙂
I do most of these things already like travel, spending time with family, and attending events. Most of this costs money. You can only spend so much time with family since most have their own lives, families and/or work. I’m lucky I can work from home so can accomplish a lot. I am just working now to fill up my day. Not interested in volunteering. It is usually boring and you work with people more annoying than former co-workers. It also ties you down and a commitment. You might as well work and make money.
That's awesome that you are able to work from home and that you like it! 👍
once i retire there goes my human connection, good/bad
Well hopefully you still have friends and family to connect with! ☺
There's no way I'd have this syndrome. I can do what I do for a living as a retirement hobby if I really wanted to. But I stay away from computers during my free time. I have other hobbies I enjoy. I'm an introvert too and solo boardgaming goes well with it if you enjoy exercising the brain.
Nice!! Sounds like you'll have a great retirement! ☺
These r people that have NO LIFE! I can think of a bunch of these people!
It is very important to have things you love to do away from work! 👍
@
yes it is! 10 more months for me!
haha that's hilarious! I do the same thing, to do list, even if it's a minor/small thing like raking the leaves or laundry. not retired yet but I always try to accomplish something everyday even if it's a small thing like vacuuming, etc. great vid always, be cool if you add some bloopers at the end. lol
I love lists! Hey bloopers is a great idea! Thanks! 😁
I don’t understand why some dread retirement or fear a lack of what to do. I am close to retirement, 3 years. I think of for those who their work is all they have in life, It’s probably pretty scary to leave the daily routine. Love your videos. ❤