Well, this is a great thread discussing what is the ideal age, and how does one feel doing it before the 'generalized official retirement age'. Well, we are all on the 'early' retirement forum, and hence will be thinking about 'retiring early'. US does not have an official age or an unofficial one. It is when we decide to transition from full time work to our next phase.
I call it Retirement-Career-2.0. I have defined what I am going to do based on my 'human longetivity' of 33.3 years (with a bit of luck and support from the superior being) and I could not use the word 'retirement only' since that is a LONG time.
I have worked since 1981 coming out of engineering school, and worked hard, and it is time for me to move to Retirement-Career-2.0.
Gandhi has the best definition I think of "happiness" which is what we are all seeking by giving up our careers, jobs, work-life and it is "[FONT="]> Happiness is when “What I Think, What I Say, and What I Do” are in HARMONY < "
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These words from Gandhi is shaping my Retirement-Career-2.0 to something that allows me to wake up everyday, and be motivated from a health, mindfulness and heart-soul-harmony perspective.
I am sure I am triggered more thoughts for you, but I hope I am answering some of the points that I read in many of your responses.
Kenny