4x4ord

 I have observed people who retire on about $80,000 per year and others who have much wealth stored up and are receiving a large annual income yet live at about the same lifestyle as the first group. It seems those who posses the desire and self discipline to store up much wealth when they are young have a hard time changing when they get older.

6 hours ago, Kirk W said:

What you haven't said is the age that you are now, or will be in 16 months? Then you need to consider how long you will live as the average lifespan for a US male is currently 79 years. How long did your parents live? Lots of things to consider as there is a risk that you will live to the age of 82.

Welcome to the Escapee forums!

What do you want to be remembered for and what do you want for memories when you do eventually reach an age that working is no longer an option? I remember well dealing with the dilemma you now face, although mine was financial. I reached the age to qualify for early retirement with my employer when I was 57 but had I stayed longer it would have increased my monthly retirement checks and also my 401k. Now after 19 years retired, I am so happy that I left the very first day that I qualified! We did not stop working when retired, but we did stop choosing who to work for based on their willingness to pay us. There are so many places that need volunteers and they need skills of every type so there is a place for you too!  Without knowing more about you than you have shared it is impossible for us to suggest what might be best for you, but there must be something that can be found for you which will be a better choice than just doing a good job at your work!

Thanks for the welcome. Much of what you wrote is part of what makes retiring not so automatic in my case. I've been self employed for the last 30 years so I already have much of the freedom that many employees long for. I also have to consider the value in seeing my business carry on with the next generation.  To do so would be interesting and enjoyable but also time consuming and challenging. As has been said everyone comes from a different set of circumstances .... no one size fits all.

 I think my sense of worth is likely tied to my work. I'm not real sure what keeps me working. I lack interests outside work. I'm 55 and I can't figure out if I should retire tomorrow or work another 15 years. In my case finances are not part of the equation.