A guy that I work with on ships retired at 40 from working in IT. His wife kept working for a couple of years on their financial plan, but was laid off last year. She's taken another job for the next year or so before they take off for good. They both dive, he's picked up a captain's license, and will get his dive instructor's ticket before they take off to run a dive boat for fun in the warmer climates. they sold their sailboat last fall and have been getting their house ready to sell in preparation for departure. They don't really need to work for money, but are very Type A people, so end up working when they get involved in any activities generally.