Life after Retirement
General Topic
Slinging off the other retirement thread….
What’s your life after retirement look like?
I’m about 3 years into it at age 59. In that time I’ve got myself 5 acres and a cabin in Wyoming. I do some part time carpentry/handyman work to keep busy and mind sharp. The extra $$ comes in handy too.
I have my own chickens and a couple of gardens. I workout every other day and hike the days in between.
I do quit a bit of fishing and hunting, but sometimes it’s by myself since many of my friends are still working lol
Sometimes the down time is a bit boring (winter) but I like to read and keep up on some of my favorite tv shows.
What all do you do in retirement?
Been retired for five years. Early on did lots of remodeling work on properties we bought. Now that's done so I spend my time with photography, lots of archery-related stuff, spend time with grandkids, try to stay out of he hospital - not necessarily in that order.
Four years this April at 61. Been on a few long term hunting trips.
Wife also retired and became a Travel Agent, so we’ve been on several trips together and cruising. Six cruises last year for me and one so far this year.
Got a job offer and decided to return to work, NDT Pipeline inspection for a local company. They do work all over the country, so more travel. Told them I wouldn’t mind ending up out west come September.
Official last date was New Years Day 2021. Actual last day on the job was July 7 , 2020. Spent July 8 thru Nov 28th on paid medical leave from shoulder surgery. Burned a month of annual leave and got paid out for 3 and a half months more lump sum. Bought a small band sawmill, a couple new chainsaws to go with the ones I had and a 50 hp Massey Ferguson farm tractor with that $$. Brought in some "walking around money" while I got my strength back, selling firewood and lumber. Set up an LLC and started a business doing perk test and design for Septic Systems. That was a big part of my "day job" from 1988 til 2020 so I had the licenses and training as well as the contacts. These days I do mostly Septic System designs April thru September, start cutting wood in September, hunt most of October and November, start selling wood in December and run the sawmill as the firewood tapers off. Not selling much lumber mostly cut for myself. Keep a big garden and 100 laying hens, sell surplus eggs, tomatoes, peppers and sweet corn, eat, freeze and can what we need. Pick up an occasional job running mini excavator or backhoe, or tree felling . I stay busy but I don't push. I don't advertise and I turn down work I don't have time for or can't do without hiring help. Simple, healthy and stress free life.
Retired full time work in 2016 and did some part time at the same job until my wife retired in 2022. Bought a place in Florida for 3-4 months each year. Ready to head north tomorrow for mushrooms, crappie, and turkey. Rebuilt 3 older tractors for fun. Still doing a small popcorn business. Golfing quite a bit. Loving every day
I'm still in the retirement stage and it's great. Don't know what 'life' after retirement will be like but hope it might be I'm the only guy hunting a primo limited entry unit. :)
Know what Brad meant but couldn't resist. Be retired 17 years next month. Age 76 and fully active. Hunt, fish, run around in the woods most days as I live in the woods, shoot my bow all year and live for bowhunting. Spend lot of time at my hunting shack. Been guiding elk hunters for 5 years now so my personal hunting way less although I do manage to take an elk and keep the freezer full. Guiding almost like hunting except you're not the one that screws the shot up!
Have a 2 yr old grandson I'm crazy about and have him doing elk calls.(better than mine). Oh, and you do slow down. Been trying to chase women and haven't come close to catching one.
Retired 6 years for me..
Most important, my wife and I are in very good health. Ice fishing, open water fishing, spring turkey, golf with my wife and or buddies, bow hunting, mix in fishing whenever I please, yard work, time with our kids and grand kids.. Rinse and repeat.. Rainy days are made for coffee and good books. In 2020, we installed a heated, in ground pool. We use it from May through late October. Grandkids are always in it.
Retirement is the best thing since pockets.
Retirement is pretty boring some times, but during hunting season it’s great. I no longer have to hunt one day a week, (sometimes no days a week), but can hunt when the wind and weather is EXACTLY right. I do a little fishing, take care of my land, plant my food plots, mow the yard. Got a big yard ! Sometimes, especially during the winter, it’s just taking the dogs outside for a pee. ;-)
Grandkids and dogs, guns and ammo, bows and arrows...
Retired in 2010 at 50 and am now 63. I was a carpenter since I was 17. I never run out of things to do. Hunting and fishing is a big part of that. I am always doing improvements around the house. Put on an addition last year and need to finish up some exterior odds and ends this year. I have a heated 26 x 44 pole barn / garage / shop for the winter projects. Help friends out with their projects. I don,t do side jobs, I have plenty to keep me busy without working. I heat mostly with wood for the outside wood boiler, so cutting wood for that that is always a project for the spring. Making maple syrup in March also keeps me busy. I can always find things to do living where I do without having to travel. I use to love to travel but not so much anymore. The trades are rough on the body and I sure am glad I retired when I did.
I have been retired 15 months. Retired at age 55 after working for the government for 25 years. I am busier now than when I was working full time. Once people find out that you have retired you will be getting asked to help them with whatever project they might have going on.
I have been selling firewood for a number of years and now that I am retired I have taken it up a notch on how much I cut. I love being in the woods cutting. I am my own boss and can do what I want. If time and circumstance permitted I would cut wood 7 days a week and twice on Sunday. I love it that much.
I plant a big garden every year that keeps me busy through the summer and along with the fish I catch and the deer I shoot puts enough food on my table that my trips to the grocery store are once a month not once a week.
Life is good but life is great when retired.
9 years retired, 2.5 years married, living the dream hunting, fishing, hiking, and volunteering by managing two big fisheries. We ditched the snow and wind at home and came to the Gulf to camp for a month and fish. Retirement is as good as you make it!
Been five years retired now. I moved to AZ and had our retirement home built next the national forest where I can watch the elk daily. I’ve drawn several quality tags since becoming a resident here and so has my wife.
Retirement has also allowed me the time to serve on the P&Y Club Board (records chairman) and the demand that entails. It has also allowed my wife and I several hunts to other states/countries that I simply would not have been able to do when working.
I have also established a new meaning to yearlong scouting, as we check old and new areas in the state several times a week throughout the year.
Lastly, I’ve got to trout fish a lot more like I used to do as a kid. Great times!
These threads suck for us still in the grind! Lol
I’m on what I hope is the final stretch! Currently 54 and shooting for 56!
Congrats to you all. Can’t wait to join this elite club! :)
My mindset is live my life thru all stages and enjoy it!
If I make it to retirement, great, but I’m not promised tomorrow. Seen and known guys that saved and scrimped thru life so they could really enjoy retirement and they suddenly died after being retired only a couple years. Bummer.
With that said, some of you guys sound busier in retirement than most are before retirement.
I’m only 1 year retired & truthfully don’t miss work at all. Keep busy with home improvement projects, hunting, yard maintenance, fish, visiting kids & grandkids, scouting new hunting prospects, looking for an occasional Indian artifact. Mostly just looking..New day different thing. Wish I were closer to my beloved mountains but life on the plains of Colorado has its merits also. Can’t wait for September!
My retirement has been interesting so far. I had to medically start retirement Feb of 2022, due to a corneal transplant in my left eye. Officially retired Nov 8.
However, since surgery, I haven't been able to really drive which has limited my ability to hunt,fish, etc. Hopefully we get my contacts figured out soon and that will all change soon.
That hasent stopped me from enjoying life. I am working out more then ever. Signed up for my first 10k, hiking locally with a 30lb pack, bike riding and walking the dogs. Went on our first cruise and working on paying off our house so we can hopefully be snow birds. If the interest rates ever come down ugh.
Retirement taught me that after all those years in law enforcement how much of life I missed out on with friends, family special events and my own health.
I for one look at retirement as starting the second phase of my life and I am going to make the most of it.
I retired at age 55 about 1.5 years ago.
Loving life! Spend several hours each day in my wood shop making things and rescuing old furniture from barns and scrap piles.
Bought a kayak and started fishing again.
I have a new granddaughter and another grandchild on the way.
Turkey hunt in WY in the spring ( have a house near Sheridan).
Have elk and deer hunted in WY since my retirement ( killed a nice bull and great whitetail).
Have a BC moose hunt set up this fall and an Iowa deer hunt early Nov.
AK trip with the wife in 2024
CO Mule deer hunt and WY elk hunt in 2024.
Retirement is awesome so far!
presently age 70, and retired from the welding trade at 65-1/2. I'm absolutely loving it! I took up a life-long ancestral bucket list item at 64, and learned to play bagpipes...the absolute hardest thing I've ever undertaken! But at 6 years in my play/set list is currently at 54 tunes, and I'm asked to play for a few events throughout the summer. Otherwise, I do a little part time driving gig, and spend the rest of my time doing what I WANT to do instead of what I HAD to do. Cut all my wood for the reverse flow smoker I built, cook a little BBQ, play a lot of golf, shoot my stick bows, coach high school hockey, and do whatever else tickles my fancy.
To you younger guys...start planning NOW! Build your retirement funds while you can, and HAVE A PLAN for even that day arrives. I can't count the number of guys I grew up under who worked hard their entire lives, retired without anything to do, sat around watching TV, and died in a year. Stay busy...keep moving...enjoy the time you've got.
Well, one better have a retirement plan, ie, $$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$ invested.
What everyone else is doing x 10 and that started 21 years ago at the age of 62. Keep healthy and strong, mentally and physically, keep busy, and that will carry you into your older age.
^^^^ C’mon Paul - no Google response? We are truly disappointed!
Retirement..my hats off to those of you that are able. I'm over 60 and don't see me retiring anytime soon. Just working only 40 hrs a week would seem like semi retirement to me..lol
Retired at 60 & now 81. I compete as much as possible & like to make some of the larger events like Championship NFAA Field & Target when in Yankton or Pa... Our State Competitions & the Iowa Games & Senior Olympics. Smaller shoots I go with my son & his buddies for a fun day of 3D. I build/repair all my own arrows & 8 family members in archery/bowhunting. Practice when I feel like it. Wife & I enjoy fishing & try to do several outings a year. With 15 G-kids & many in sports we cover many a baseball, football , basketball & volley ball. We drove 3 hrs & spent the weekend watching volleyball & a G-Daughter & her team compete from 2pm till 9pm & 12 games on Sat. VERY long day. We try & take each family of "smaller kids" on some type fun outing like a water/Amusement park (4 in one & 3 in the other). Bigger G-kids we figure out other fun things they would enjoy & try to make it happen. I've taken a couple charter fishing & others on a hog bowhunt.. Wife has tons of flowers so I get plenty of carry the dirt here & there or this or that here or there. We do other a night out to eat & an occasional movie for the wife.. Fall it's Deer hunting & most years son & I get away for 2-3 days of off season pig hunting. My Elk humping days are over but I have been blessed with many in Co & N.Mexico. I may go for Spring Turkey but was never a big fan.. Wife & I just had 25th anniversary so will do something fun for that this summer (we just haven't decided yet). We just do what we want, when we want & enjoy "one" day at a time. We can't always determine our health but do what we feel is best.. A little faith in the man upstairs will make it all be what it is to be. I've been blessed with15 States & 2 Canadian Provinces bowhunting lots of various biggame & now, many adventures with my bowhunting Son & 3 G-sons... It is nice when they are along & the modern cell phone text says, Dad or G-Pa has one down. Come help.
I am 73. Retired at 58. Can not put a price on time. I am a trout bum. I love the UP. Going to Alaska, Hawaii , New Zealand in that order. Done going out west. Lived it in the 70s. Hunting trips are all Canada. Less hassle
Definitely envy you folks that pulled the retirement trigger. My original plan was to retire in May, 2021 at the age of 59-1/2. When Covid-19 hit us in March, 2020, my company sent us home to work...and still support working from home today. In September, 2021, they re-opened the doors for those who prefer working at the facilities...but I have no intentions of ever going back. Working from home has definitely altered my retirement plans and extended my career. For how long...I'm not sure?
Like stated by many above, staying busy, eating well, working out, hiking and I do like my trips for getting away every 5-6 weeks.
Good luck, Robb
A typical day for me, yesterday I fielded a couple of calls about up septic design jobs, met an excavating contractor on a site to discuss an upcoming installation, inspected an installation and did a soil study for a septic design. Today I'll haul a couple loads of hickory logs from a nearby farm where I've been doing cleanup of a huge triple trunk Hickory blow down, then pick up chicken feed, lime and some barn roofing. Tomorrow I'll be cutting and splitting the Hickory. The rest of the week I plan to saw a small order of pine 2x6 and some 3x8 chestnut oak Bridge decking beams.
I turned 66 December 1st and retired January 1st. I don't miss work at all. So far, I have spent a lot of time taking inventory of all my hunting and fishing stuff and reorganizing. So, I'm still trying to figure things out. I have some trip's planed for the next few months and I'm looking forward to hunting season. Meanwhile I have been doing some Steelhead fishing. It's nice to fish midweek and pick my days but it's a 200-mile drive to good fishing. Turkey season is coming up and there is always something that needs to be done. So far so good.
Retired last July at 58.
Joined a pickleball group, working out and still teach 2 spinning classes a week. Started yoga yo work on balance and flexibility, should help the golf swing.
Retired in summer to have decompress time before winter lockdowns. Golfed, fished and hiked, that led to hunting, now waiting o. Spring to open all those up
Read books and work on small house projects in winter. Don't think I could have survived the first couple of weeks if I started in winter
Took about 3 weeks to stop having work be my first thought in the morning and about a month to stop dreaming about it.
Don't miss it at all
A buddy asked what I was going to do when I retired... I told him, "whatever I want".
Been great so far. Small projects around the house that I put off for years, done at my own pace. Go out for breakfast with my wife a few times a week. Gym every other day. Plenty of time with the grandkids. Plenty of fishing and hunting, again, at my own pace. I used to rush out of work to get the 45 minutes in a stand then sit in rush hour traffic going home. Killed plenty of deer over the years but it was very hectic.
Best part is time with no pressure. When working everything was crammed into a weekend, family stuff, home projects, errands, even hunting. My job could be stressful. I used to lay awake Sunday nights thinking about what I had to do Monday morning before I even got there. Not anymore. That's probably the best part for me, having time with no pressure.
Cheap but fun hobby and food on the table. Either going to open my Owen wood shop are find part time work. I just can't sit at home
I am gonna reopen this thread in 20 years
I like reading this... I still have some years to go, but it's fun to look forward too.
1.5 years retired at 62. Lots of hunting (ducks, geese, rifle elk, deer, snow geese and turkeys). Lots of golf and all the grandkids activities! Mix in some swimming laps, bike riding and walking. I have not missed work at all! I was a self employed consulting engineer.
I have exactly 3 days until my retirement. I'll let you know.
Retired in June at 59. Went back for 13 weeks. Starting to adjust again. Need to find a routine again.
Easing into it now. 8 more months of “part-time” work before taking the plunge the end of the year. 57 now, will be 58 when I retire. I have tons of projects to get caught up on, plan on playing more golf, more DIY hunting adventures getting away from the fully guided/outfitted hunts. Also plan to travel more with my wife and spend winters in a more palatable climate. Getting excited!
I Retired in 2010 from the US Army. I turn 53 in October. I read nonfiction, but the books have to be older than 1979. I carry heavy things for my wife in the garden. I support my wife's graduate school research - by carrying heavy things in the woods. I cut firewood, tap maple trees, pull prickly ash, and plant fruit trees in our forest. I explore the local river bottoms and bluffs looking for paleo-Indian settlements. I periodically write articles on international relations and foreign affairs. I make leather goods for flintlock longrifles. I do the dishes and take out the trash. I try to wear out our treadmill. I shoot my bow. I bow hunt. It's good.
43 here, and absolutely no plans to retire. I’ll work hard and play hard till the day I get planted.
Turn 62 in a month and will retire before turn 63. I increase our wealth about 2% each year through take home. We have enough money. My wife retired four years ago. She lives in our SW home a few blocks from two of the grandkids. We have been married 35 years and have averaged about 80 nights together each year. Retirement will mean more nights together, for better, for worse.
Most of my bucketlist was checked off years ago. There are a few adventures I may chase and a few views I would like to take in. I hate that Mexico never stabilized. I have enjoyed by adventure there as a younger man and enjoy their culture but Mexico is simply not worth the risk for me. I once felt I would live there as an old man.
Our plans are to head to Spain for 80 days next spring after sell our NW home then live together in the SW after the tip overseas. January, April and November will be roadtrip months where we will travel together for up to 5 weeks by car sight see and visit family in CA, MT, MO, NYC and SC. June and July will be spent overseas.
I will fish a bit as the opportunity arises and maybe big game hunt a few more times if draw a fun tag. My body no longer handles what used to be my most memorable hunts solo up in the high country. Quite the quandary when takes weeks to get back to normal after two weeks in the wilderness.
My folks were able to roadtrip into their mid-70s and thoroughly enjoy the trips. I figure that gives me a decade to be active in retirement. I may survive into my 80s and 90s as did my folks but they certainly did not thrive the last decade of life. Modern medicine is a blessing for staying out of an early grave though a curse for some for keeping the heart beating while housebound.
I'm shooting for an early exit from the workforce. Cannot wait. I'm pretty good at playing and staying busy. Great thread. Fun to see what it looks like on others. Enjoy it.
TreeWalker - you make a great point regarding health at retirement. It is a tough proposition to work hard for most of one's life and then be too beaten down to enjoy the easy life post-retirement. My oldest son is a union mechanic - he works like a dog making his money. Hopefully, his body is in good condition when he stops working and can he do the things he isn't doing now, while getting four kids through high school.
Speaking of bodies in good condition. I spent most of the day today on my tractor with a little time on my backhoe. My knees hurt !
For you married guys that plan on retiring.
Remember - Retirement is half the money and twice the wife. Lol.
^^^^ My recently retired friend came up yesterday for a visit and go skiing today, specifically because his wife needed some “space”.
Worked out great.
I have 9 months until I semi-retire at the age of 56 , I built a nice company in northern Nevada that my boys will be taking over. That’s why I say semi because I know myself that I will be in and out of there all the time . Tom
My wife and I have been partners and spent our time, doing everything together. Shes my best friend, hunting partner, trapping partner, asst. coach. Miss her when were apart. Strange when your married and need time apart to me.
Retired nearly two years ago. Spent December and part of January in our motorhome in AZ, just got back from two weeks in Patagonia a week ago and now spending the next 9 days salmon fishing in Washington. Thinking about doing some volunteer work for Nevada Bighorns Unlimited but haven’t been able to commit since once I’m in I’m in hard. In fact having one dentist appointment on my calendar during a month annoys me and hurts my retirement vibe.
Will be 40 later this year, so I still have several years to go. Reading all of these posts is giving me good motivation to keep on keeping on.
My wife and I have been debt free other than our house for 4-5 years now and it has about 12 years remaining on the mortgage. I have always contributed to my 401k, up to the company match. Now we both are and then getting on up to a 15% total into retirement by contributing to Roth IRA’s. When I look at the numbers and financial calculators I feel pretty good about where we are but at the same time this extended downturn is very disappointing because I know where we could have been.
I have an urge to save up and make some bigger purchases. Reading these retirement stories have been a good reminder to focus on the long term goals. If we have the ability to save sizeable amounts of money beyond our allotted emergency fund, I think we would be better suited to get the house paid off sooner and max out those retirement accounts. That could potentially allow us the opportunity to retire at 55-60 which would be awesome!
I am now 67 . Retired at 50 to work for myself , part time . By the Grace of God , I had a Dad that taught me how to work and to save . Went to tech school after high school for HVAC and commercial refrigeration. Worked that field 3 years and then went into an electric motor shop for 30 years. MAXED my IRA from 18 until 65. Built my own house, not a contractor building it . 10 year loan ,as I had saved money to build but not enough to finish. Moved in as a single man the day I turned 30. Married 3 years later. Put every extra dollar on the principle and paid off in 7 years . Took the house payment money and bought a $500 Series I Bond each month for years. Have owned 10 new pick up trucks ,but NEVER made a truck payment . Saved for one bought new ,run about 6-7 years ,in meantime saving for next truck . Buy left over truck between Christmas and New Years ,as that is deal time . A working man can do it ,just have to stick to the plan. Never turned down overtime . Have been on 47 fly in fishing trips, around 16 bear hunts , moose hunts etc. Deer hunt here in Ohio and on my 45 acres in Northern Michigan. Not saying any of this to brag , but to encourage you younger guys that it can be done . Life is good !!!!
Good stuff Ogoki! Appreciate the perspective and motivation.
Congratulations to all you guys that have been able to retire. I still have about 3 more years to go and then I will decide what I am going to do with the rest of my life. I like getting up and having a place to go. Having four kids and putting them all through college/housing sure put a damper on our retirement plans. Wouldn't change it for the world.
I would like to know what it feels like to hunt an entire elk or deer hunt here in AZ.
Congrats to all. I just can’t ever see not working and living off of retirement income and SS. My monthly nut is too big for the way I want to live when I “retire”. :)
Congrats to all who are retired and doing well! Health seems to be the big unknown to me. Heart disease with stents at 43 has me wondering how much retirement I might have someday, but it doesn't stop me from planning. I'm about 7 years out from my planned-on retirement age of 55. My wife has 10 more years and will retire at 55 with a very nice pension, which is what will mostly support us. Just last week I paid off the mortgage I took out on our house to buy 50 acres for hunting. Debt free now and will ramp up retirement savings. This stock market has me worried, hoping that past historical performance is on all of our sides, but beginning to wonder. Great thread!
One of the most painless things I ever did to increase my 401k was to use the auto increase feature every year. In the beginning make sure to do enough to get the company match. Pretty soon you’ll be maxed out on contributions. Later you can deposit the max each year right away to get that money working for you earlier in the year. HSA & Roths can help you keep the income down for cheaper health insurance or tax purposes.
Today I finished up the tree cleanup (roughly 15 tons of firewood logs) and fixed the gate post I sheared off with the skid steer (small log in the grapple caught it low to the ground) I bought them a new post and gate hinge pins and put it back better than it was, the old post was rotten inside. They're tickled and offered to let me cut wood on the place anytime. Tomorrow I WAS gonna be processing firewood to fill a customer's woodshed for next winter. Instead I'll be working for free, a friend had a stroke last week, is coming home Friday. Building a wheelchair ramp Tomorrow and Friday. One of the best things about retirement is the freedom to help out like that.
Ahhh retirement….long ways to go being 30. However, been contributing to my retirement since I started working for my family at 18. They match 3 and I immediately put in 10%. Now with kids I’d like to put more but I put about 15 plus their 3, so 18% total every week.
Been retired 15 yrs. I stay super busy. I am very my involved with my church and a formal Bible study program, bowhunt, golf and travel with wife. As I have aged, I’ve added a new activity - going to the doctor ! Something seems to always be going wrong. Thankfully, it never anything major.
My only advice to someone considering retirement is don’t retire to you are ready to retire. I see a lot of post about how much money needed for retirement. That is a good question, but health is a more important issue. If you have your health, retirement will not be enjoyable regardless of the amount of income/money you have.
Called it quits two years ago. I'm 56 now. Have a part time gig that provides extra cash and insurance. Everyday is a vacation, although the past two years I have spent considerable time renovating our two townhouses. All the other time is spent fishing, rafting, hunting, resort skiing, backcountry skiing, mountain biking, hiking and camping. Two weeks ago I visited my daughter in Utah. Incredible backcountry skiing. This weekend I hiked into the mountains with my daughter here in Montana for some more incredible backcountry skiing. Tomorrow off to bridger bowl for some resort skiing. If it is above freezing in the afternoon I will fish the river for some dinner. I love being away from the rat race. I don't have enough time on this planet to do all the things I want to do. Retirement rocks!
Blood, your statement about not living off of retirement income and SS as being "enough" is maybe miscalculating your post-retirement needs. I walked away from a $300K career, discovered how much richer my life was without the job, and that my SS and retirement income were far more than enough to fulfill all my needs and dreams.
Only after you cut the cord do you discover how much you truly "need".
Jaquomo exactly! "Enough " depends on attitude and state of mind.
I retire in 45 days. I will be retiring days before I turn 68. I have a fair size 401k but I am not going to worry about it anymore. As long as I can afford my out of state Virginia hunting where my hunting cabin is I should be good. I live about 6 miles from Samaritans Purse in Charlotte. I want to see if I can join a disaster relief team like went to Turkey or this week to Mississippi. I have a fantastic wife of 48 years but I hope she doesn't experience husband overdose where I get on her nerves. My grandkids live 4 miles away so I hope to spend a lot of time with them while they are little.
nchunter you know your cabin is less than mile (crow fly) from my house? You need to visit us.
Thanks Jaq. That gives me hope. I guess if I didn’t have a mortgage, boat payment, toys and taxes, etc. I could swing a decent retirement. I still feel under gunned to spend what I want on the things I want to do.
Being financially indebted or otherwise has always bothered me. Living within my means, investing heavily and not incurring what I call "stupid or want" debt, allowed me to retire before 50. Wife and I live comfortable/simple lives. I hunt/fish a couple times per year, when i get the itch. I am not as obcessed with it as I once was, not sure why... and we travel a few times/year. Golf/tennis/biking/time with my 2 Labs/gardening/working out/trading options/reading etc.... takes up the time in between. Retirement is great!
retirement is a state of mind...i retired at 50 but chose to keep doing what ive always loved doing... when and how i want to do it...see no need to trade that in for playing pickleball and making bird houses.
Lou.......I had the foresight when I lived in FL to buy a lifetime resident saltwater fishing license....hope to make use of it when I retire.....but don't see that happening for another 10 years....... Love it that you and the wife are down there living the good life for a month. We are in Spanish Wells Bahamas this week and I've sorely tempted to spend more quality time here in the future.
When I fully retire Retired from the Navy years ago, then last March from a private company
I’m now thinking of volunteering time to my local schools as free security. If I can satisfy their training and safety requirements:>))))
Made a quick trip up to my Wyoming cabin this week. Snowshoed in and spent the night.
livin the dream. Youre my hero. Hope to do the same thing one day
That looks like a cozy cabin.
Went fly fishing yesterday and caught 14 trout. Both browns and rainbows. Retirement sucks!
Very, very cool Brad. Congrats
Brad, do you have wood heat in the cabin? I don't see a stove pipe anywhere?
Also agree with others, awesome place!
Paul
Mike, that's a lota pork in one spot..lol
Yeah I put a wood stove in the cabin. I also brought in a Mr Heater with a 40lb propane tank
Ahh, I see it, nice. Nothing like wood heat & a cocktail in the eve!
Paul
I don't know but one man in my family that retired successfully and all he did was really define the terms under which he worked most everyday. He died after complications from hernia repair surgery. He got the hernia pulling a fence post by hand at the age of 89. He had a great life, too.
My retirement plans are to interject more autonomy and broader missions in my work. Financial freedom is pushing that variable mostly out of my decision making paradigm. With respects to all who do so well at it (and, rest assured, I'm a little envious), vocational recreating just creeps me out. I've seen too many men just rot.
fuzzy, I really like your approach.
Glad to see you guys enjoying yourself. I could have retired last year at 48. I figured I will stick it out another 5 until I’m 53. I enjoy my job and still get to do a lot while working so it’s all good. My wife is ready but, she won’t go until I do.
We just camped for a month in a little remote rustic RV park on the Texas Coast. Almost everyone there is either full time retired couples or 7-8 month snow birds from the upper midwest who leave their RV there year round. All had stories of how they downsized from big homes into RVs, got rid of so much stuff, and have found happiness with a much simpler lifestyle.
Some have fishing boats, kayaks, ebikes, etc for "toys". But by most working people's standards they appear to be living like poor folk. They share campfires and cocktails with neighbors in the evenings before taking a margarita down to the lighted pier to fish with other couples. Some volunteer around the place, two do woodworking projects, one is restoring a 66 Mustang. One couple grows weed to share with the other seniors who enjoy cannibis. Everybody watches out for everyone else. We were immediately accepted as friends. I have not met a happier, friendlier bunch of folks in my life, collectively. They have learned how much they "need" to be happy and fulfilled in retirement, and it truly isn't much.
I left a CFO/COO job at a pretty small 75 employee company because I was getting screwed over and figured I might retire then at 58. This was in the summer of 2020 and I was really burnt out and I really liked taking the year off but miss the work. Found a great job where I'm treated really well, appreciated and paid more than my last job and I actually get my bonus now. I can't see myself retiring anytime soon since I really love this job.
Retired at 59. I'm 65 now. Spent the first few years working and enjoying our Mtn cabin in northern NM, and hunting, fishing, gardening, shooting skeet, trap and archery. I was in that cabin with siblings but decided to sell out to them and look for my own place. I live in Albuquerque NM and things have turned really sour here. Crime, drug abusers, corrupt politicians, vagrants, grifters, and ignorant voters abound. The sound of sirens, circling helicopters and planes just add to the feeling of danger. We've purchased an acreage in the Heartland and have sold our house in NM. Just waiting for it to close. Should be settling into our new home by about the first of May. Wife still has about 2 years before she can semi-retire. She could fully retire but I'm leaving that up to her. I stay busy working out 3-4 times a week gardening, fishing, shooting, bird watching, hiking,...... etc. Loving retirement. The next chapter in our new home, pending.
Hunt, fish, golf and help out with friends and family that need a helping hand at things. Into my 6th year of retirement. First three I struggled to find a routine but that has long past and I now "never" miss the job I loved. I would type more but I'm off to the water the American shad are running.
I'm 36 years old. The way the world is going with AI and all the other $hit I half honestly doubt if the thought of what retirement today "is" will even be an option 25 years from now. I think North America could potentially be a seriously screwed up place by that time. I think it would be stupid to work my whole life counting on that wonderful retirement one day because I seriously think that world may not exist then. Got to enjoy working life today!! :)
I retired in 2014, a great life only got better!! I think for most of my life people were saying the government sucks, their plotting to take your guns away, kids are either lazy or stupid, ect. Looks like people are retiring earlier and with more toys, I still have more guns than I could ever use & my grandkids are all smarter than I am. Life is good if you want it to be!!
Update on my retirement life saga. Last week I delivered a cord of firewood, assassinated a goose, moved a dead body, designed a Septic system repair, plowed my garden and corn patch, and dug out a bunch of stumps.
I am two years out and will have 40 years with my company at that point. Things are changing for the worse at my job so not sure I will make it to that date but I'm ready for any eventuality. I took a week off at the end of March and spent it working on the restoration of my 1967 GTO and it was a really sweet taste of retirement. Got up, casual cup of coffee, and out to the barn, work until 3:00, shower up, and get dinner ready for the Mrs. Between hunting and car work I am not planning on much down time in the future....unless I want to!!
I'm a real short timer, gave my employer a three week notice on Sunday, only 16 days to go!
Really puts things in perspective if you are thinking of retiring.
The 33 dead don't count, they're dead...
33 Maybe THE most relevant number in your decision
Geez - raining on a LIVE old man's parade...
Congrats on your retirement!
Losing a string of friends in my late 50s (they were my age or older) changed my perspective on when to retire early. It also reinforced the notion that "enough" retirement savings and income can be plenty, compared to the alternative- 6 feet under or slowly dying from something you never expected to happen.
Retire as soon as you can. Nothing is guaranteed.
Jaquomo you're so right. Retirement doesn't mean you have to stop working or earning. It can mean that you do more of what you enjoy, some for pay, some for fun and some to help others.
Great thread. Really like to hear about those on Bowsite able to retire after what sounds like successful work lives. I surely agree with a lot that has been said. I retired in 1995 but continued to do consulting for another 15 years (1 to 3 days per week - something I would recommend for those that have that opportunity). Cannot believe that I've been retired that long and being at the age of 84. Retirement can be one of the best periods of your life if blessed with a great wife or family. Have had many successful bowhunting and fishing trips during those retirement years. I think that the biggest asset of retiring on the younger side is being physically able to do all those things on your "bucket list". Do not really understand those that say that they are bored or have nothing to do. Examples above such as what Jaq said are so true. I highly recommend retirement !
I'm still adjusting to a week full of Saturdays. I've got plenty of work around our acreage to keep me busy but hunting and fishing on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday with no crowds is nice. I noticed last fall that the deer are less spooky after the weekends.
Took me awhile to adjust also. So used to having a set schedule I felt guilty if I was doing something every minute. Guys need a mission. Mine had been work for over forty years.
Now my mission is taking it easy and enjoying the life that my wife and I worked so hard for all those years. I stay busy with projects, spend time with the grandkids, hunt, fish and pretty much do whatever I want. I’m always busy but at my own pace. Finances are squared away and health is good. Very blessed. I recommend it if you’re at that stage in life.
This week so far I've plowed an old crop field and disced ready to plant "heirloom " Boone County feed corn, planted another field in the same variety, located, and documented an existing unused septic system so the owner can connect a camper, sowed clover in a wildlife plot and am getting ready to plant onions and potatoes. Tomorrow going to saw some oak beams for bridge decking, Friday I'll be felling some trees on a Septic drainfield area preparing for the install.
Today was a "snakebit" day. Had good help but poor luck. Tree I was felling had a hidden bad spot that buggered the hinge and it fell about 15 degrees off my intended line. Nothing damaged just left the top to where I had to move it with the loader. Broke a sawmill blade, one chainsaw was dull the next one I grabbed wouldn't start. Beats working! Lol
We had quite a winter & snowmelt has left the water table pretty high. Got a couple inches of rain overnight. I’ve been keeping the water at bay by pumping low spots back to the pond. Kind of nice to be retired & not be at work wondering if the sump pumps are working. Just waiting for the rivers to get in shape for a little steelhead fishing.
Throughly enjoyed my first deer season as a retiree. I spent most weekdays at our camp in NE Louisiana. Came home on the weekends to spend time with the wife, who’s still working. Throughly enjoyed my 33 year air traffic career, but haven’t missed it for a minute.
Good stuff guys. "W" when I saw your post I thought we had a former US President posting on retirement. Lol
I've read this thread twice. I'm amazed at how young some people are at their retirement. I don't know, but my last long term contract ended two years ago and I decided to take some time off. After that, every time I spoke with my father he led with "did you take another position yet?". At the time, I was 67. Of course he worked until he was 89 and couldn't understand why I would be out of the work force "so young". He'll be 99 in June so he felt I should work at least into my 70s.
I just went back to work as a 0.5 FTE working 24 hour coverage Fri/Sat/Sun every other weekend. I couldn't stand not working - it never felt right so I really couldn't enjoy the time off as much as I should have. So far, this is a much better balance for me. I told them 3-5 years or until they can get back to full staffing. I won't be able to match his 89...
I both hate and love this thread. I grew up never expecting to retire. Now at 53 I'm jonesin' for it. I will vest in my pension plan in June and need to plow 10 years at least into it to make the retirement dream possible......assuming the asshats in DC don't gut my Social Security forced investment or force me to work to 70. Like Lou said, you can enjoy life on alot less than you think but the wildcard is health care costs........
I'm 59 and could retire but my income at this point is much higher than I ever imagined it being. So, I'm looking at 5 more years of gravy then re-evaluate.
I'm over 60 and don't see myself retiring any time soon. If I hadn't had so much money extracted from my income all these years I could retire. My hats off to you fellas that can retire. Enjoy it
To me, it is all about aptitude and not so much about obligation. I doubt I have the aptitude to retire well so I renounce the obligation to do so. People are foolish and abide idiotic social constructs more than healthy, innate dispositions.
If you can do it do it. My word, I can only imagine you've earned it and then some if you are at a point you can consider it. However, if you should not do not.
I retired at age 61 eleven years ago. I do not regret retiring early one bit. I’ve hunted and fished quite a bit. And quite a bit of the time I help by taking care of my grandkids when their parents have a conflict. My son just bought some hunting land, so I’m planning the food plots in that land and will be doing all of the food plot work. I’m not busy every day, and I’m completely ok with that. If people want to work into their 70s and later, go for it, that’s not for everyone.
If you retire to an RV what in the world do you with the stuff? Guns, bows, tractors, rods & reels, saws, planes, welders, cutters, boats, compressors, ???? Just quit???
I met a bunch of people who retired to RVs this winter. Some sold off everything except stuff that made them happy, like fishing kayaks, hunting stuff, bikes, etc. Some others went back north to the upper midwest in summer, and keep their fishing boat, motorcycles, canoe, summer stuff, in a big storage unit the rest of the year.
All of them told us they were happier living large and having freedom, with less stuff.
But I don't think anybody on this thread is talking about retiring to an RV full time. We just love to take ours on trips for a month or two in summer and winter, and my smaller hunting camper is my home for September-November. We keep the other stuff you listed, plus more, at home.
Owl, we discovered we have the aptitude for professional retirement. Really good at it, at a major league level. But some others who have the means to retire comfortably, struggle to adapt. That's baffling.
Randy/Owl last week I had a repeat client ask me "when are you going to retire-retire?". I thought for a minute and said "I guess when I can't do it anymore "
Retirement to me sounds like a total nightmare.
But I also recognize my professional life is also as much of who I am as my bow hunting life is as well.
I plan to work until the day I die. But I also love work.
For me personally there is nothing overrated about retirement!
I’m working on becoming a professional, however just shy of 2 years in, I am still in journeyman status.
Stoneman if I may ask, what is your trade?
Hey fuzzy, sorry… I was referring to my “professional” retirement status. My current trade is senior CC&BW (chief cook & bottle washer) at least that’s what’s on my LinkedIn profile. ; )
Now back to my O J T
Ah, ok! That's in my current job profile too. Lol
Dave, when you feel comfortable spending a couple months of WY winter on the gulf coast, you will have reached a new level of retirement! You'll get a badge and certificate (suitable for framing!) at the annual "Retirement Awards" banquet, and will be eligible for Regular Member status.
I could have retired much earlier than I did but was worried if I had enough savings to do so. Now I know that I did not need to worry about savings as I have not touched a penny of it since retiring 3 1/2 years ago. Now when I leave to go hunting and my wife asks when I will be home I tell her it will be when I fill my tag or the season ends. She is OK with that, but that could change now that she will be retiring in another week. We will do more traveling together after that.
Rock, I'm so sorry to hear that. Lol
Lou, once I get the streams, rivers, and high mountain lakes figured out here I can graduate to coastal fishing and work on my retirement merit badges!
Looking forward to the banquet and a few drams of SMS.
Really nice on the ranch today.
While northern Wisconsin dries out I like to fish from Florida's sandy beaches. Had a red over 40" Friday, retirement is the best. Pompano on the menu for this evening....after cocktail hour!!
If I remember correctly, the bi-laws allow Regular Membership status as long as you don't use a time share but I could be wrong.
"Owl, we discovered we have the aptitude for professional retirement. Really good at it, at a major league level. But some others who have the means to retire comfortably, struggle to adapt. That's baffling."
- Jaquomo, it's not that baffling especially when one can exclude 'means' as a factor. It may be sad but not 'baffling.' : ) Everything makes sense.
Cecil, I hear you. My retirement is going to be what most people call "hospice care." lol
Owl, I guess so, but I struggle to understand why someone wouldn't want to do more of the things they love while physically able, spend more time with friends and loved ones, have the freedom to pursue whatever post-career avocations you choose, volunteer and give back to the community, and take a nap at 2:00 in the afternoon before fishing if the mood strikes.
I get it if finances don't allow it, or, like DConcrete, your job defines your identity to such a degree that you don't want to let go of whatever that is. But for those who don't think they will find fulfillment away from that job thing, I have news for them....
Jaquomo, Taking from your first paragraph, we have a fairly common definition regarding retirement. Put another way, it's a matter of greater autonomy exercising one's personal capital.
Could be "greater autonomy exercising one's personal capital", or doing what you want, when you want, how you want. Either way, it's a lifestyle, and a lifestyle change. Some fall right into it, some adjust after awhile, and some never do.
Freedom isn't for everyone. ;-)
First step of freedom for me is going to work every day when, financially, I don't have to.
Been retired since 2009 and I still cant shoot in senior class 3d. Maybe I never will?
this week it's mostly been consulting work, designed a septic repair, and a new septic with "perk" did a design change on an alternative sewage system because the contractor ruined the drain field area, and did some brush hogging and pushing to clear a patch of autumn olive for a neighbor
"It's the FINAL Countdown...TAH-NAH-NAH-NAH, TAN-NAH-NAN-NAH NAH"
It's my last day of work...Yay...8^)
Zone,
Congrats. It was a great feeling for me and don't miss it one fing bit lol
Congrats Zbone. Playing on your own schedule is kinda addictive.
Congratulations Zbone! Stay safe, we'll and busy my friend!
It is nice, but if wife still works, watch out. She texted me from work to ask me to take in the cushions before it rained. I guess "I will when I get off the golf course" is a dangerous answer ??
My wife asks me. “ what is on the agenda today?”
My answer most days is, “I will start with…….”
After the start, I find great stuff to do all day in the woods!
Bob and grape I get both those from my still-working gal ;)
Congrats from a Johnny Cash fan. Look up lyrics to "Oney".
This retirement thingy is growing on me. For years everything was such a scramble to fit things in on a busy work schedule. This week I married a daughter off, chased steelhead 4 days & filled a turkey tag all at a nice leisurely pace. The “scramble” had taken some of the joy out of my pursuits the past few years.
Yesterday I tilled two gardens (5 foot rototiller on the Massey Ferguson 165) and finished the brush hogging and autumn olive grabbing job. Today I cleaned the chicken house and manured my garden, spread composted sawmill sawdust over top and re tilled. This afternoon I'm plating potatoes and cabbage/broccoli
Your life after retirement sounds like a dream, man! 5 acres and a cabin in Wyoming? That's some serious living right there. And doing part-time carpentry and handyman work is not just keeping you busy, but also bringing in that extra dough. Talk about the best of both worlds! Having your own chickens and gardens must be awesome. Fresh eggs and homegrown veggies, can't beat that. Plus, working out and hiking to stay fit and active—total boss move, my friend. Oh, and if you're looking for more awesome reads, check out
https://medium.com/@todd.karamian. Dude's got some killer insights to keep you engaged and inspired!
Checking in, since May I've been working a big consulting project with sewage systems and wells for six cabins, 6? yurts, a restaurant and a six unit hotel style building. One of my closest friends found himself jobless due to a "downsizing" and was able to work with me on the project. We spent three months working together, groundhog hunting, fishing and trading BS. This is the life!
Bringing this one back for an update. I had a great year with the business last year but it started to feel like a "real job ". My older sister passed just a few weeks before retirement. I decided to scale back the consulting business, sell the 10 acres with the mortgage, sell off some business assets and close out the firewood and sawmill portion completely. I'm moving back to the cabin (paid for). I'll still have a few tasks for the consulting business due to the nature of the permitting and build process for another 18 to 20 months but I won't be taking on any new projects after June 30th and I'm being very picky about the jobs I take til then. By Jan1 '26 I should be free to do what I want. I'm going to book a Cape Buffalo hunt with Ken Moody for '26
Enjoy doing what you like when you like. Choice is a nice thing
I have a little more than two years to go until I retire and there is a chance I may continue to work. Bought some property at Mormon Lake, AZ and we are in the process of finalizing cabin plans with our architect. If the Cabin is built by August 2026 I will probably retire. If it's not built by then I will probably continue to work. Who knows? For now, I am just trying to make the most of what I am doing now.
Congratulations to those guys who have retired and are staying busy doing what they want to do.
Dont remember when I worked so hard at having fun. 7 day weekends. Made several million since retirement with very tax liability. Life is good.
I can retire right now but it doesn't make sense insurance-wise with my kids still in school. 3 years minimum for me with possibly working 5 more. I am only 52 so I am not quite ready to hang it up yet, but love the idea of knowing I can pack it in any day if need be.
Bowfreak I retired from State Employment at 57, used part of my retirement benefits to cover Health insurance. Started a small consulting business and also did sawmilling (small band mill) and firewood in the slow season. The last two years there WAS no slow season. I'm ready to "retire retire" at 62 next August.
Still living the dream, now 10 years in. Wife, dog and I are wintering on the Texas Gulf right now, 100 yards from fishing. Heading back to the mountains for summer and fall since we don't have a lot of "spring" at 8600 feet. It's great to look at the snow blowing past our Blink camera at home while sitting in the shade here, where it's 78 with a cool Gulf breeze.
I have not missed my career/job for one minute since walking away in 2014. Every day is Saturday now!
Retired 18 yrs end of this month. Has been great! Spending this winter getting 2 new knees, one in December, the other next week. Other than that just fun on my own schedule.
My last day of work will be July 31st. There will be the fishing trip to Colorado in August. Archery deer season opens September 15th and runs through December. Then there is the Missouri fishing trip in October. Of course the whitetail rut gets going about the time I get back from Missouri. Pheasant and quail season opens the second Saturday in November. My brother said now that I will be retired this year, as he is, we can pick good days during the week to go. My Brittany is looking forward to more days hunting birds. Bird season runs until the end of January. I may even find time for a little trapping in an attempt to lower predator numbers. After that I may need to recuperate a little before it is time to hunt sheds and start fishing. I will have to make time to get to the gym 3 or 4 times a week.
I'm loving every minute of it...
3 years for me. Setting up a taxidermy shop for retirement extra cash. Looking forward to it, sick of engineering project deadlines.
While i still love my job I'm shooting to retire in three years and get the hell out of NY. Most likely TN or KY in a timber frame with at least 5 acres in the country.
Getting very close and I'm kind of struggling with it to be honest. I like my job. Just want the freedom to be gone as much as I want. Not looking forward to saying goodbye to everyone. Hope I can hold it together.
I retired at 50. 65 now and never looked back. 35 yrs in the trades takes its toll on the body. Still plugging away and loving it.
This August will be four years retired for me. Time flies! I loved my job but love being retired way more. Life on my schedule, no pressure. Good luck to guys getting ready to jump.
First and most important is your health and wife’s if married.I guess second depends a lot where you live and what you want -not what you need.I have been blessed that I worked on the east coast in a union job with high wages- health insurance and retirement package.I retired at 52 with full benefits and then worked 6 more years in a different industry ( need to retire with a min. of a boatload of money -Bs ) Covid came and everyone wanted my home for 200k over real value-So we sold and relocated to a small town out in the middle of nothing in the South with New house with twice the acres.Saved a ton of money just in taxes- heating- cooling-++++. paid 2/3’s of the house and invested the rest.Why would you give all your money to a bank if your mortgage is only $600 including taxes.We do what we want when we want and travel to see the kids and families with a rv.It really comes down to what you want and what you have to work with BUT you must be healthy when you get there - STRESS will beat you down if you let it.Do the best you can and then adjust to what you have.Again I was blessed and made it thru the stresses of life.God bless all
Forgot to mention I have an older brother that’s still working with 3 million in the bank.Everyone is different - no friends- no hobbies -nothing he really enjoys -just a different idea of retirement-depends on what you want vs what you need.I chose living ( with what I have ) he chose money which is never enough for some.What are you all looking for when you retire??
Left working for Department of Corrections back in 2013. Sold my house and moved in with my parents to help out. Dad was diagnosed with Leukemia and wasn't able to care for the house we grew up in. Meanwhile, I took a job working at AZ-Metals as they were only 15 minutes away. Owner was a working manager with 2 employees in 1 bay at the time I started. Helped raise the business to 10 employees and move into all 5 bays taking over the entire building. Doug, the owner, is a great and honest man.
Dad passed away four years later at 81. Mom was setup with everything she needed to live on her own. Moved me and the Mrs. out to a house of our own. Left working with AZ-Metals to help out a Christian school. Worked for two more years until they were at full staff. Left to become semi-retired as a handyman. Mostly helping teachers from the school.
Seems gardening is a common thing with retirees. Apparently, I'm no exception with my own squash, tomato, and berries. Lately, I've been out crappie fishing 3 times and got my butt spanked. Oh, but now my bass boat is getting a new cheat tool... LiveScope!
In my case, having "enough" retirement income to do whatever we wanted without having to dip into our nest egg, good health, no debt, and plenty of activities, volunteer opportunities, and mutual interests so we stay busy and have similar rhythms of life. We have all that.
Retired only a couple years now. I'm 68 and worked construction all my life. I hadmy own business as a small general contractor the last 32 years. Being self employed can be tough to put money away if you're not diligent. Going through a divorce can really set you back financially also. I'm not as well off as some of you guys but we do ok without having to dip into our investments. I made sure everything was paid off early. No mortgage, car payments, etc. We stay active working the yard (my wife's flowers) and my garden. I take a couple small hunting trips a year and hunt when I want in the fall on my property. Life is good so far.
Retired July of 23 at 56 from a union trade. I have a camp on 162 acres in PA!
2 1/2 years in and it’s been awesome so far!
Well, since I started this thread….
Still doing some side work 2-3 days a week, fishing, hunting, enjoyed my Wyo cabin quite a bit last year. Headed up there tomorrow in fact.
Gotta check my trail cams! ;)
See you soon, Brad. Turkeys gobbling already!
For me, I’m 3-5 years away from retirement … but I’m soaking up all of this wisdom.
What I’ve gained so far: health > money.
Health is critical. Relationships are nearly so. Money is important, but useless without the other two.
Coming up on 2 years of retired life and live it. My wife jokes I suck at retirement cause I now have 3 jobs. All are part time and for fun. Total hours a week worked, about 12
My belief is if you can't answer this question, don't retire: what are you going to do with your time?
For me fly fishing, golf, hunt, hike, pickleball have all there. Even so some winter days are tough, but I do enjoy reading
You will suddenly have lots of time to fill. Have a plan!
About 2 years in and can't believe it. My only regret is not buying in Fl before rates and housing there went through the roof, but everything happens for a reason.
I don't miss one bit of the job after 28 years most on 2nd or 3rd shift. I tell people when they ask how I like it, my response, I didn't realize how much of life I missed to the job.
anyone besides me get rich and retire young by following don lapre's advice during the 1990's and place tiny, classified ads?
My last day will be July 2 this summer. Can't wait.
I bailed in April 2015, just in time for turkey season and spring fishing. I was 49 and told them I could be "broke at home". Was a Chevy dealer technician for 30 years (union job and took the 30 and out option before they got rid of it). I didn't retire rich but I went out young and healthy with a decent pension. In a few more years I'll get a raise when SS kicks in. I was able to care for my parents better as they couldn't drive any longer until they both passed. I shoot a lot of IDPA competitions. Reload all my ammo and cast my own bullets.(saved wheel weights for years). I hunt deer a lot and fish Lake Erie quite often, get together with the archery guys every week. Eventually built a shop with a lift to keep from getting bored and to keep the rust off my tools. I also travel a little bit with the wife. I honestly don't know when I found time to go to work. Retirement as far as I'm concerned is AWESOME and I highly recommend it.
I retired from law enforcement, May of 2017.
My wife and I had been talking about me retiring for about a year or so prior to me pulling the plug. After 30 years (last 19 as Police Chief) I probably would have continued working a few more years, except thats when Obama created a "hateful" opinion towards L.E. and took a lot of the "enjoyment" out of the profession (for me). **PLEASE DO NOT TURN THIS THREAD POLITICAL**
I truely enjoyed my job as well as most of the people I came in contact with, so it was a bit difficult pulling the pin.
The main reason I was able to retire was that for the 19 years I was chief, I never "took" a raise. Each year I put the raise (sometimes 1%, others as high as 5%) directly into a retirement account -- and that was what facilitated me retiring when I did.
Prior to law enforcement, I worked in construction, so after retirement I was busier with small carpenter jobs than when I was working.
April 2nd will be 5 years retired for me, at 57. Spent 31 years with IDNR and it became too political for me and my mouth.
Did a couple side gigs through the first few years, then last year a local company called and asked if I wanted to work part time. Went to work for them as a NDT Pipeline Instructor. Money’s good and I get paid to travel. Only thing I have to watch out for is not making too much money. I also started drawing social security last year. Travel, hunt and work when I want is how I spend my time now.
Since I retired just over 5 years ago and moved to the high country of AZ it’s been pretty awesome and a great decision. In that timeframe, between my wife and I, we’ve drawn 3 bull elk tags, one pronghorn tag, 2 Kaibab deer tags, 4 early Turkey tags, and Javelina tags every year. Additionally I get over the counter tags every year for archery deer (Coues or Mule), bear, cougar, and archery Turkey…….I also fish some incredible places for native trout and even some Grayling. But the best part is waking up in the morning and watching the elk and mule deer in my meadow!
Been retired for 24 years. We did river cruising on all the rivers in Europe. Drove around just about every state in the union. Visited a bunch of my old military buddies and spend time with our kids and grandchildren. Have fantastic neighbors who we have a glass of wine with. Have a small woodworking shop that I tinker with when I get the hankering. Always looking to go on another trip somewhere in our world. Life is good!
Sometimes I feel guilty. I feel lucky and dodged bullets, literally So I don't forget to give back. I am involved in kids getting meals daily. Many kids have asshole parents. Not their fault Also shipped 6 sur boards, for kids who can't afford them I like to volunteer for alot of stuff. I am very conservative, but like to give back. I hope many of you will. Mahola
Sounds like a common theme, retirement is good for folks who have an interest in the outdoors and active hobbies. Kudos fellas
I retired from a very successful high profile career. Based upon the blessings, joys, and benefits of retirement, I should have skipped the career.
I retired from a very successful high profile career. Based upon the blessings, joys, and benefits of retirement, I should have skipped the career.
I guess I’m in the minority that love their jobs and have no desire to retire. My job is so low stress I feel like I’ve been semi-retired for 10 years. Now 64 and burning my saved up preference points on grandpa units. I can hunt all I want and still get my work done, mostly from home. Midwest hunting & fishing travel expenses are reimbursed due to my 5 state work area.
I retired last June. I finished every honey do project by September.I love the freedom of just going to the cabin to bowhunt anytime I wanted. I definitely don't have the free income that some of you guys have. If I had one regret it would be not putting the maximum into my 401k while working for IBM. I had friends that did very well by doing this. I had every intention of trying to volunteer for Samaritans purse which is close to my house but they don't seem to want a 68 year to assist with hurricane recovery projects. My grandkids only live 4 miles away so I sure get to spend time with them. I have an archery range in my backyard and I am shooting better then I ever have. I do miss the people at the accounts I was assigned too. I am still looking to volunteer somewhere about three days a week.
I spend a fair fraction of my time involved in club activities. Along with a couple fellow retirees, will be setting up the club 3-D course for this coming weekend. I spent the past week walking the trails, trimming lanes, and making a few other minor upgrades. (Still gotta lug that new bridge out to target three!)
Every Sportsman's club I know is looking for a little bit more help than they have.
What are you retirees withdrawing from your retirement accounts? Following the old 4% rule?
Retirement simply means you don't have to put up with corporate shenanigans anymore, or dealing with a crybaby executive because the "bottom line" isn't what they want...
Simple word is "Freedom".
Nick, the only withdrawals I make are for things like a partial remodel of one house, a new RV, etc.. Otherwise, between a good custom annuity, my Social Security, and wife's gubmint pension, we put a few Gs back into our retirement account every month. She's still a few years away from SS, but that will go back into our retirement account as well.
We stay really busy doing volunteer stuff, fishing, camping, hiking, biking, scouting, hunting. We man volunteer checkpoints at our mountain community entrance on a few weekends, I manage two big fisheries, am on two Boards, and in the next month we will run a big wounded vet fly fishing event, and four kids/seniors fishing derbies.
Aside from a few manageable age-related health issues, I'm happier now than I've ever been, and the sense of freedom is priceless. Winter on the Gulf, summer and fall in the mountains, if fishing is good and we want to stay someplace another couple weeks, we just do it.
Life is better than I ever imagined it when I was younger and looking ahead at "retirement". Thought it would be boring, not having a "job". Nope!
Yes, retirement has been a blessing. 18 years for me. Hunting and fishing trips, hunting shack time, family events, community volunteer activities, and a lot of alone time that I value. You need a supply of note pads for your daily lists. If single like me you have to make your own lists rather than your better half giving you your assignments! :) I could probabbly save a few note pad sheets by re using the one from the previous day cuz lots just transferred to the new day's sheet! That's the freedom of retirement!
I'll be ready to go back to work within the next year ....not liking being around SLOW old people...
Retired at the beginning of this year. Had planned to retire this summer, but my company was bought out so I went a few months early. Have been so busy hunting, traveling, and on projects around the house I have to schedule time to rest. Turns out I can't go 16 hours a day / 7 days a week! (Probably never could!) My desk job let me "rest", and now I am doing more physical activity every year. Not missing work one little bit. Loved my job, but love being retired even more. Bill
I’ve been up at my Wyo cabin since last week. Riding my atv, doing a little turkey hunting, cutting/splitting firewood, hell I even mowed the west part of my property - with a push mower ;)
One year in, except for inflation, I'm luving every minute of it...
Trying Hard, you choose to be around "SLOW old people". I choose to be around active, fit, older folks and fast, motivated younger people.
Don't let the old man in.
Man, he got torched for that one, didn't he, Tom!
Norseman, I think Dave Ramsey gives solid advice but for my own piece of mind I planned on 4% earnings on retirement.
to each their own but I thank the good lord ive never been in a job I couldnt wait to retire from.
that must feel like a prison.
I enjoy my job, got a great staff and boss. Enjoy working with the leaders of the Company but just don't have enough time to do all the things I want to do. I'll be ready in three years.
You can't buy time on this earth. Nobody ever said on their death bed, "Man, I wish I had worked more!"
“You can't buy time on this earth. Nobody ever said on their death bed, "Man, I wish I had worked more!"
that’s probably true…but I know quite a few people who have said I wish I hadn’t retired so early…and have gone back to work…and not for financial reasons.
I only know a handful like that, and those are people who have virtually no life outside of work, and for whom their "job" defines their identity. They need that to gauge their self worth.
Everyone else I know who went back to work in some form, reluctantly did it for financial reasons.
I need to retire in order to keep up with my yard work alone can’t wait. Only 20 more years to go.
Reopening this discussion…………….
We have encountered both good and bad twists of life and wonderful blessings from God. While retired and being self-employed on a limited basis, we have been able to capitalize on wonderful opportunities that could only be blessings from God and have done well financially.
In business, even reasonable overhead can dilute business profits. Live within your means and save money into wise investments. We got slightly burned by a negligent and unresponsive financial representative. Since then, we have found peace and security in CDs rather than investments with increased risk.
Make an effort to enjoy life while working. Being self-employed was both good and bad. It took awhile working long hours to build the business into a very successful condition. During the early years there were no vacations and only local hunting and fishing. I was happy to put in the effort and very grateful and thankful that it paid off. The business became successful - which required continued hard work which we were happy to do. Then we were able to take some great vacations and enjoy life along the way. At the time, we were aware of many who died too young or lost good health before enjoying retirement years. So we took time off for vacations and to enjoy life at home - at the time it may have seemed excessive. We raised and grew our own food, heated with wood, along with training our labs and coonhounds, hunting, fishing, and trapping. At the time it was wonderful, and now with health limitations, we are incredibly glad that we took the time to enjoy our home life, travel for hunting, fishing, and wilderness adventures, and to enjoy time with friends and family.
Consider that it is very common to run out of good health before running out of time or even money. Losing good health can eliminate the adventures of hunting, fishing, trapping, travel, and possibly the joys of daily life. So make the most of every day whether working or retired.
"Consider that it is very common to run out of good health before running out of time or even money."
When you're young that seems to go right over your head but it is so true for many, if not most, of us. Except for those that have to move into a personal care home or skilled nursing facility. Then there is a likelihood that you may well run out of money.
Looking back as what I posted here I had no idea of how my life would change in two years. I failed miserably at staying out of hospitals.
Been retired 11 years from my state job. Loving every minute of retirement. Just doing stuff around the house and archery and bowhunting keeps me busy.
Just finished 13 years of retirement. Had a drastic turn of events nine years into retirement. Wife diagnosed with terminal cancer. She’s been gone almost two years. I’ll never recover from that loss. But I’m thankful for my decent health, and the time I get with my kids and grand kids. I have been able to hunt a lot, Africa, and Alaska, both multiple times. And of course deer, antelope, elk, and turkey closer to home. And lots of bird hunting and some fishing. Make it happen when you are young and able, live within your means and take care of family.
I'm about to enter the brave new world of retirement. I will be retiring effective April 1st, but with vacation to use I will only be working 18 days between now and then. I'm still trying to get my head around it. I don't think it has sunk in yet.
Best year of retirement was this year. My daughter gave me my first grandson, and the fall hunting was full with a bull elk, a cow moose, a WT buck and a turkey.
Not sure I’ll top this year anytime soon
Retired September 6. So far, my biggest expense has been all the gas I'm burning driving to my hunting spots. :-) I'm paying off what little I have left on my house next month and I'll be completely debt free. Life is grand! Time to live it up!
I retired in early July this year. I was on the go constantly through mid- November. Now life has slowed down and I've had some bouts with boredom. I have things to do, I just haven't had the motivation to get started on them. I can get very motivated to go on a hunt,....not so much to do some house projects. Lol. I'll figure it out. In the meantime I'm enjoying a lot of high school hockey. Merry Christmas to you all!
If you can pull off retirement without it killing you, more power to you. I see many patients that retired and their health deteriorates or they die within 5-10 years. I think staying active and continuing to pursue goals is very important if you retire. I had an elderly patient a few years ago, in her 80's and in terrible health. Her husband who was 92 but looked 70, literally darted in the front door, dropped her off in a wheelchair, and walked briskly back out to park the car. I found he owned and operated 2 lumber yards, and was still active in day to day operations.
I am 2 years into retirement and LOVING IT. Thornton hit the key, I always ask people, "you are about to get 40 to 80 hours a week that you have to fill. What are you going to do?" If you don't have an answer, don't retire.
Made it 3 years in retirement and was offered a “part time” gig. Somehow, it’s trying to become a full time job. Been on this job since 11/24 and won’t go home until 3/2, but it’ll pay my taxidermist bill and a couple other hunts.
Been retired over 6 years now…..love it. Debt free and hunt/fish when I want. I could never go back to work…..too busy scouting and volunteering for conservation groups.
I plan on working part time maybe 3 days a week when I retire. We probably won’t have a choice anyway with inflation. In regards to what Thornton said my buddies father retired at 65 and died not long after. I definitely have plenty to do for awhile to keep me moving.
Retirement keeps getting better. Went to AK this fall for the first time.
I have no desire to retire. I will try to make sure that I always have something to go do. I want to make sure that it is totally optional though!
I left my job in July 2020 tired of getting treated like crap and my bonus cut since they figured at 59 and the middle of covid I wouldn't leave after 20 years. I took a year off and dropped close to 40 pounds working out and walking. In September 2021 started working for a much larger company in senior leadership and am super appreciated, my boss is great and so is my staff. Making more money and much better benefits and now since this is the best job i ever had i don't want to retire. lol Only downside is living in NY and this state is going down the toilet. I figure three years then Kentucky or Tennessee.
10 1/2 years in, and like Roy, I can't imagine going back to work at a real job. I'm way too busy doing volunteer stuff with kids, wounded vets, and serving my community. In between I hunt and fish as much as I want, scouting, hiking, biking, learning new skills like kayak fishing on the Gulf, and playing with my super-fit outdoorsy wife (who inspires and motivates me).
But I know a good number who retired with no passions outside of work and they either had to go back to work, or rapidly declined. I also know some who miscalculated how much money would be needed to retire and live comfortably.
Another variable many overlook is the cost of assisted living if/when it's needed. In most of the country, costs range from $8-10K a month, memory care even more, and Medicare pays zero. Same with conventional insurance.
Families have been literally bankrupted when the mother or father has to go into a facility because they were unable to care for them at home.
Many states have something called "filial responsibility" laws, which require the adult children to pay the bills after all of the assets of the parent are gone. Luckily, Colorado isn't one of those states, or I may have been on the hook for a LOT of money after I spent down all my mother's assets to zero. The care facility came after me for it so I hired an elder care attorney, who told me to call their bluff because of the law in our state, so they ended up writing it off after a bit of a battle.
I’ll be dead when I retire. Would rather spend my money on the things I’d like to do now while I can, instead of when I’m old and can’t do those things.
Coondog, I’m with ya and if you like me I have no sort of retirement at all except S.S. and that’s it . My wife and I adopted three little girls and we are both in our 60s now and these girls needed a forever home . All three were actually baby’s two are special needs .It was our decision to adopt so we took a home loan out sold a travel trailer we went out in once and a utility truck to help in the adoption. I wouldn’t change that for all the money in the world . Would I like to ever retire ? That answer is Yes but knowing our girls are getting food,a home and love means more to my wife and I plus making sure their needs are met with surgery’s . We have one that needed cleft lip repaired ,braces and a nose operation which are all done now and our youngest is 13 now and has already had a heart device installed that looks like an umbrella for better blood flow ,a rod installed to help straighten out her right arm . She also has had her left first finger moved to where a thumb would be cause she was born with no thumbs and her hands turned inward almost to a 90 degree angle. I just had two brothers who retired in their 60s as well and one farms helping a friend and other just stated his last week . They both were able to invest in a 401 program and have some savings and that’s great cause they were hard workers. I’m a maintenance man that take care of 93 apartments and I turn them over but I get just a weekly paycheck with no benefits except 5 weeks vacation due to the 20 years I’ve been there. I do have workman’s comp if something happens there but my wife works for the benefits that we need . I won’t lie and say it doesn’t bother me seeing folks get to retire cause I do get somewhat jealous But I made that decision with my wife and could have possibly saved a small nest egg . Into this world I was born with nothing and out of this world I shall leave with nothing as some shall say But I know of a savior I have invested my life with . I’m not perfect in any way shape or form and I trip and stumble daily but knowing I have a loving God whom sent a savior to die for our sins and I Trust He will remember me and my wife and three daughters when our true retirement will one day come . To those who can retire I say Congratulations and enjoy your time doing what you love . As for me I’ll keep on working check by check and appreciate that I still have a job to feed and clothed my family .
You're a good man, Keefers.
Merry Christmas Keefers! You and your wife are true Christians.
Bernie
Keefers, you and your wife are strong and special people! God bless you.
Keefers, congrats to you and your wife for living out your values and letting your lights shine! Most people are not that selfless.
If anyone REALLY wants to know how mine is going, call 276 245 2253 and listen to my voicemail greeting. Lol
Retired 5 years and busier than I have ever been maintaining recreational farm, tracking deer for the public with my three dogs, hunting a bit, and trying to convince the world that my Tradtracker string tracking device should be on every bow out there.
2 retirement tips -
1) The year you turn 73 you are required to take a minimum distribution from your IRA or 401-k.
2) Make sure you're not late signing up for Medicare Part D or you will be penalized until you die. (Yes, you read that right. I learned the hard way.)
2 more years I will be 53. This is a good read listening to all the retired guys. Happy for you all
"1) The year you turn 73 you are required to take a minimum distribution from your IRA or 401-k."
A Traditional IRA, yes that is correct. As I understand the original account holder is not required to take RMD's from a Roth IRA. I believe the heirs to the account are though.
I've got an established scheduled when I retired at 55, 6 years ago:
Dec-March: Ice fishing
Apr-May: Turkey Hunting
Jun-Aug: Camping
Sept: Bear Hunt
Oct: Elk/Deer Hunt
Nov: Deer Hunt
REPEAT
May God richly bless you, Keefers!
56 yrs old, 31st year of teaching. Good read here and good suggestions. I am going year by year as it’s still fun…and when I do retire I will likely need to work a few part time gigs to supplement my pension.
You will wear many crowns in heaven Keefer's! Well done.
Keefer’s ….that is awesome
Yes Keefers very admirable. Two years retired today for me. Amazing how the time flies by. Retire the moment you can.
Been retired close to two years now. Best thing I ever did. I have way too many hobbies. From hunting and fishing to making knives. Babysitting sick grand kids that can't go to day care. I have no clue how I had time to work. I feel sad for folks that think they have to work. My FIL is 83 and still works 3 days a week for a machine shop because he thinks it wouldn't survive without him. SAD
My biggest complaint is I still have dreams I'm at work!! I wake up pissed till I wake up and realize I'm retired. Kind of like having dreams your back in high school and forgot your locker combination! lol
I'm a little over four years in and I recommend it for anyone with enough time on the job and enough resources. You're going to reach a point in your life when time is more valuable than money but....having some money to enjoy that time makes it much better. Plan well.
Walnut Long Gun Cradle - Handmade wood screw
Walnut Long Gun Cradle - Handmade wood screw
This is a cherry cradle.
This is a cherry cradle.
I retired in 2021 as Covid was hitting the fan. I describe retirement as 6 Saturdays and a Sunday. I have way too many hobbies, most of which I spend too little time on. I still bow hunt for big game and squirrel hunt with rimfires and airguns. I am a hobbyist woodworker making furniture for my children and grandchildren. I make wood gun vises and air rifle totes. Seems lately, the past two years I spend too many moths recovering from joint replacement; hip and knee. Into week 3.5 of the right knee now.
I just turned 60... been retired for 10 years. I'm so busy now that I honestly don't know how I had time to work. I have a supportive wife who supports my motto.... "hunt like you're going to die tomorrow." Ed F
