I retired 8 years ago from my regular work/paycheck, BUT I've had a small consultancy related to my primary work since 1994.
So when I first retired, I simply worked more on my consultancy. It took me five or six years before I dialed back on my consultancy. I still accept work (because it allows me to travel), but I'm far pickier about what I'll do.
The pandemic this last year slowed me way, way, way down. I did a bit of work as a consultant but nothing that took me out of town.
Being retired has allowed me to choose how I spend my time and with whom I spend my time. It has also allowed me to travel far more than I had been able to before (while I worked full-time, I could travel as a consultant only on weekends and on my vacation days). Except for the pandemic, I could travel when and where I wanted (within my budget, of course).
I love the freedom to pursue my own projects on my timeline. I love being able to take a nap when I want.
And I am most grateful for being able to be around and to help my father as he moves deeper and deeper into Old Age (he just turned 89).
Because I moved out to the middle of the desert when I retired, I left my social life in Tucson. Before the pandemic, I could drive in to town and have lunch with friends and keep up with everyone. Since the pandemic, not so much.
Also, in retirement, I earned an ACE personal trainer certification and a Silver Sneakers group fitness certification. I haven't used either one, but I keep the certifications current. I am now in a program to become a Pietra Fitness trainer. At some point, when I'm completely done with my consultancy, I hope to use these certifications and work with an older population.
I retired 2 1/2 years early because I could. I don't regret it one bit.
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