Early retirement at 55, now what

3w ago1 min read

Been working since I was 22, retired 6 months ago at 55 with enough saved up. The identity shift has been weird. I was my job, you know? Software engineer, that's what I told people I was. Now I wake up and have no structure and honestly some days it feels pointless. I've started woodworking, spending time with the grandkids, fishing more. I know I'm lucky to be in this position but man I didn't expect the mental side of it to be this hard. Gaining freedom but losing purpose is a strange trade off at this stage of life.

9 comments210 views

Comments(9)

CChris P.Regular3w ago

That identity shift is no joke. For decades you've been answering 'what do you do' with your job title. Now you get to figure out who you actually are outside of that. How are you feeling about it so far?

LLance K.Regular3w ago

This is a huge shift. I'm curious what you're doing with all that time now. Are you jumping into projects, spending more time with the kids, or are you still figuring that part out?

MManuelRegular3w ago

Man, I get this. When I'm not working on a job, I feel a little lost too. Have you thought about finding a project to pour that energy into? My kids and I started building stuff on weekends and it's been huge for me.

JJerome S.Regular3w ago

That identity thing is real. I went through something similar and honestly, being present with my three kids has become my new thing. Pizza night used to be just dinner, now it's like my favorite part of the week. Maybe find your new ritual?

DDerek P.Regular3w ago

Congratulations on hitting that goal though, that's incredible. The playground has taught me that dads who embrace the free time tend to be happier. What interests have you been wanting to explore?

MMike P.New Dad3w ago

This is the dream scenario but also sounds kind of terrifying honestly. Are you planning to stay retired or thinking about doing consulting or part-time work just to keep busy?

MManuelRegular3w ago

That's awesome you hit your retirement goal, but I get the identity shift thing. Work has defined so much of our lives for decades. Have you picked up any new hobbies or projects to fill that space?

NNate B.Regular3w ago

Congrats on retiring early. The identity crisis is real though. I'd suggest finding volunteer work or maybe mentoring younger folks in your field. Keeps you engaged without the stress.

RRyan P.New Dad3w ago

Congrats on making it happen at 55. That's incredible planning. The identity thing is real though - we all tie ourselves to our jobs. Have you thought about volunteer work or mentoring? Keeps you busy without the stress.