It's been almost 10 years since I took early retirement at 49. Looking back, it was extremely challenging due to the Great Recession, and I gave up a significant amount of earnings. So the question is, "Would I do it all over again?" The answer is, "YES!"
Here are the reasons:
- I might not be alive today. Five years after retiring, doctors found significant blockages in my arteries. I suspect I may have had a heart attack due to stress if I had continued working.
- I received retiree health insurance from my company. So I didn't need to find private insurance or use Obamacare.
- I could focus on what was best for me and my family, instead of what was best for the company and its employees. This is much more rewarding for me.
- I had time to see my children grow up. My daughter was three when I retired. My son was adopted 6 years after retiring. I didn't miss a moment, which all seemed to go by too fast.
Of course, we would be better off financially, if I hadn't retired. But overall, I think it was a good trade off.
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This is not financial or retirement advice. Please consult a professional advisor.
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