Why and How Many Times Have I Retired?

Historically, the standard for retirement was remarkably set at an age when many were still building their wealth and families. Starting from the age of 18 to buying a house by the age of 25, and securing a car through a 30-year mortgage, life was structured to progress in a certain orthodox manner up until the golden years. However, today's era of information and financial freedom has brought forth a new perspective. Why and how many times have individuals chosen to retire early?

Early Retirement and Financial Independence

Reflecting on my journey, I began preparing for the day when I could retire based on financial independence, not age. At 17, I owned my first house, and by 16, I had already graduated from college. Life was planned in a way that, by the age of 40, I would have a stable house, a young family, and the freedom to retire. However, years went by, and the path forks at the midpoint of life: I retired. The house was paid off, but I found myself immobilized, unable to pursue new endeavors due to health issues and lack of financial freedom.

With my savings and investments earning more than my salary, I chose to retire at 59.5 years old. Money no longer served as the sole motivator, turning instead into the means to achieve a more purposeful and fulfilling life.

Multiple Retirements: Not Always Final

Others have experienced multiple retirements, each offering unique lessons and opportunities. One individual retired at 59 due to a lucrative offer from their former employer they couldn't refuse, while another retired at 72 from a part-time job for a well-deserved break. Each retirement marked a significant phase in their life, but the pursuit of personal fulfillment and joy never fully ended.

Unwilling and Purposeful Retirement

For some, retirement is an involuntary state, imposed by circumstances. One individual was involuntarily retired at 58, deciding against consulting or finding another job. This experience highlighted the virtues of purpose in life. Without a sense of purpose, one might succumb to faster mortality. Recognizing this, the individual returned to school, gained a license, and found a fulfilling career teaching high school physics.

Retirement as a Second Chance

Some individuals have a different perspective on retirement, and it can be a second chance to make a difference. Retiring at 62, influenced by the untimely deaths of a father and a mother, this individual faced a deep emotional departure. After retiring, they focused on educating their granddaughter, ensuring she received the best possible education. A decade later, the emotional and academic investment bore fruit, as she excelled in her college entrance exams. This experience was incredibly rewarding, and the joy has grown as they now live close by, strengthening their bond.

The Quest for Purpose in Retirement

Ultimately, the journey of retiring is as much about the destination as it is about the journey itself. Whether retiring once, twice, or even multiple times, it is the pursuit of purpose that ensures a fulfilling and meaningful life. Each retirement story is unique, but the essence of seeking purpose and joy in one's later years remains universal.