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The Madcap

(1,948 posts)
Fri Apr 24, 2026, 05:43 PM 4 hrs ago

I retired today...

I hope it was the right decision. For peace of mind, I'm certain. Financially, who knows? I've done my best to save, but with the way the world is right now, it's impossible to be super confident.

It's time for the next chapter in life. It will all sink in on Monday morning.

78 replies = new reply since forum marked as read
Highlight: NoneDon't highlight anything 5 newestHighlight 5 most recent replies
I retired today... (Original Post) The Madcap 4 hrs ago OP
Congratulations. mr715 4 hrs ago #1
Congratulations I retired at 62 16 years ago doc03 4 hrs ago #2
Congratulations! CousinIT 4 hrs ago #3
Congrats - retired early and understand you apprehension but it will all work out! Best decision of my life. walkingman 4 hrs ago #4
Congrats! Nevilledog 4 hrs ago #5
Ain't that just the truth canetoad 2 hrs ago #43
... Nevilledog 42 min ago #77
Congratulations, Madcap! MIButterfly 4 hrs ago #6
Congratulations!! 2naSalit 4 hrs ago #7
Congratulations! My husband just retired on Friday! Tesha 4 hrs ago #8
Congrats senseandsensibility 4 hrs ago #9
Congrats! SheltieLover 4 hrs ago #10
Enjoy! oasis 4 hrs ago #11
Congratulations! anciano 4 hrs ago #12
Congrats on claiming the rest of your life The Wizard 4 hrs ago #13
Onward and Upward, Madcap. lamp_shade 4 hrs ago #14
I retired almost a year ago with the same concerns. hamsterjill 4 hrs ago #15
Congratulations Emile 4 hrs ago #16
Welcome to the club malaise 4 hrs ago #17
Congratulations! Enjoy every minute! n/t livetohike 3 hrs ago #18
Congratulations! 🌞❤️ littlemissmartypants 3 hrs ago #19
Enjoy your new life. Clouds Passing 3 hrs ago #20
I had no choice, but I love owning my own time The Blue Flower 3 hrs ago #21
Congratulations and best wishes Wicked Blue 3 hrs ago #22
Congratulations, best wishes to you moving forward. Nt Ilikepurple 3 hrs ago #23
Congrats. Had the same feelings 2 yrs 2 mos ago. Worked 'til 70. So far so good despite MAGA/DOGE. joanbarnes 3 hrs ago #24
Congratulations! crosinski 3 hrs ago #25
Congratulations The Madcap, As Smith Barney made so famous long ago, JMCKUSICK 3 hrs ago #26
Congratulations. Just don't stop doing things. LoisB 3 hrs ago #27
It's the best thing you could ever do for yourself, congrats. dem4decades 3 hrs ago #28
Congratulations and good luck. ShazamIam 3 hrs ago #29
Congratulations 🎈 underpants 3 hrs ago #30
Congratulations & some kitchen table $ advice Bluejeans 3 hrs ago #31
I also said 'Are you sure about this?'. BeneteauBum 3 hrs ago #32
Welcome! QueerDuck 3 hrs ago #33
Congratulations! democrank 3 hrs ago #34
Congrats... MiHale 3 hrs ago #35
The Right Decision! Fiorillo 3 hrs ago #36
Congratulations! cate94 3 hrs ago #37
Exactly! Aussie105 2 hrs ago #60
This message was self-deleted by its author Fiorillo 3 hrs ago #38
Congratulations! Loving retirement! Joinfortmill 3 hrs ago #39
Welcome to retirement! IzzaNuDay 2 hrs ago #40
After I retired, I wondered how I ever had time to work UpInArms 2 hrs ago #41
Congratulations! Nt spooky3 2 hrs ago #42
good on you!...I turn 62 next Feb. dwp6577 2 hrs ago #44
Congratulations and enjoy your retirement! Prof. Toru Tanaka 2 hrs ago #45
Congratulations!! Fla Dem 2 hrs ago #46
Congratulations and welcome! Sanity Claws 2 hrs ago #47
""" AllaN01Bear 2 hrs ago #48
Welcome to "Every day is Saturday!" (nt) William Seger 2 hrs ago #49
Congrats... S/V Loner 2 hrs ago #50
I retired 24 years ago. Best thing I've ever done. multigraincracker 2 hrs ago #51
I love being retired. Congrats 🎊 Figarosmom 2 hrs ago #52
Congrats BlueWaveNeverEnd 2 hrs ago #53
I am so happy for you! I was fortunate enough to retire 18 years ago. I loved my job, but I have never regretted having KitFox 2 hrs ago #54
I retired 20 years ago moonshinegnomie 2 hrs ago #55
I hope you love it half as much as I do! 1WorldHope 2 hrs ago #56
Congratulations TexLaProgressive 2 hrs ago #57
Welcome to your new life! Aussie105 2 hrs ago #58
Beaut! Enjoy!! 🥰🤗🫡 MerryBlooms 2 hrs ago #59
congratulations!! markie 2 hrs ago #61
As a member of the BMWE-IBT, I was able to retire thirteen years ago at age 60... BHDem53 2 hrs ago #62
Congrats! Bristlecone 2 hrs ago #63
Congrats! Find a little something to take up a bit of your time. No full-time rocking chair or fishing boat. Norrrm 2 hrs ago #64
Congratulations. Wishing you a wonderful retiirement, doing what you love. niyad 1 hr ago #65
Congratulations 🎉🍾 live love laugh 1 hr ago #66
Congratulations!🎉 debsy 1 hr ago #67
Congrats! Best of luck! paleotn 1 hr ago #68
Congratulations! Trueblue Texan 1 hr ago #69
Congratulations! alison_in_nc 1 hr ago #70
Good Luck! Richluu 1 hr ago #71
Congrats!!! geojazz 1 hr ago #72
WOW! NewLarry 58 min ago #73
I'll retire and collect SS in a year... WarGamer 57 min ago #74
Good luck Omaha Steve 53 min ago #75
Enjoy the freedom away from the constraints imposed by working. magicarpet 43 min ago #76
Enjoy! Faux pas 38 min ago #78

CousinIT

(12,645 posts)
3. Congratulations!
Fri Apr 24, 2026, 05:59 PM
4 hrs ago

I'm doing the same next year. Trying to plan retirement in this mess is, well. SUPER annoying. I've saved too, but with inflation as it is, and who the hell even knows if Medicare and Social Security will be there? Shitler and his spawn and billionaire friends may just vacuum up all that money too, like they're doing with the Treasury money.

walkingman

(11,018 posts)
4. Congrats - retired early and understand you apprehension but it will all work out! Best decision of my life.
Fri Apr 24, 2026, 06:00 PM
4 hrs ago

Well, 2nd best....marrying my DW of 48 years in May. ☮

MIButterfly

(2,962 posts)
6. Congratulations, Madcap!
Fri Apr 24, 2026, 06:00 PM
4 hrs ago

Welcome to the club.

I don’t know what kind of work you did, but for me, the worst day of retirement has been much better than the best day I ever had working.

Enjoy it!

2naSalit

(103,502 posts)
7. Congratulations!!
Fri Apr 24, 2026, 06:02 PM
4 hrs ago

It's a harsh change at first but it starts to feel better every day until it seems like every day is Saturday!

I hope it's the start of a great time in your life!

Tesha

(21,152 posts)
8. Congratulations! My husband just retired on Friday!
Fri Apr 24, 2026, 06:11 PM
4 hrs ago

Now we’re wondering how to structure days… but at 70 he deserves some golden days.

So do you!

hamsterjill

(17,673 posts)
15. I retired almost a year ago with the same concerns.
Fri Apr 24, 2026, 06:26 PM
4 hrs ago

Everything has been fine so far. You’re going to love it. Find something that interests you and stay engaged. Learn how to say “no” when you need to.

Congratulations!!!

The Blue Flower

(6,544 posts)
21. I had no choice, but I love owning my own time
Fri Apr 24, 2026, 06:41 PM
3 hrs ago

The company I was working for went under during the pandemic. And my age became a barrier to finding similar work. My eyes simply couldn't manage 6 -8 hours a day of editing technical reports. I have managed on SS and what I saved over the years. It's been great to branch out into the things I truly care about and am interested in. Congratulations on your new chapter. I hope you enjoy it as much as I have.

joanbarnes

(2,127 posts)
24. Congrats. Had the same feelings 2 yrs 2 mos ago. Worked 'til 70. So far so good despite MAGA/DOGE.
Fri Apr 24, 2026, 06:47 PM
3 hrs ago

JMCKUSICK

(6,390 posts)
26. Congratulations The Madcap, As Smith Barney made so famous long ago,
Fri Apr 24, 2026, 06:53 PM
3 hrs ago

You made retirement the old fashioned way, you've earned it!

Bluejeans

(158 posts)
31. Congratulations & some kitchen table $ advice
Fri Apr 24, 2026, 07:00 PM
3 hrs ago

Congratulations!

I retired 3years ago.

To save money on groceries we watch where we spend our grocery money. There’s a drug store near us with a decent sized grocery department that offers 10% off to seniors on Wednesday. We figured out what grocery items like coffee and other items are cheaper there than the big grocery across the road. We go to the drug store first on Wednesday then hit the big grocery after that. We have no shame—we use every coupon we can!

We also use the military commissary every few months for canned goods, paper items and meat. If you’re a veteran and receive a VA disability rating you qualify to use the military commissary—get details from the VA website

BeneteauBum

(636 posts)
32. I also said 'Are you sure about this?'.
Fri Apr 24, 2026, 07:00 PM
3 hrs ago

My three daughters were out of the house so I went sailing…..still sailing 16 years later.
Enjoy yourself!

Peace ☮️

MiHale

(13,096 posts)
35. Congrats...
Fri Apr 24, 2026, 07:12 PM
3 hrs ago

Stroke retired me… first year was the easiest, yet the hardest at the same time. Once I accepted the fact I didn’t work any more I changed my outlook and found different things to stay occupied.
Went back into my childhood and rediscovered my love of growing things…gardening. Brought relevance back into focus.


Fiorillo

(24 posts)
36. The Right Decision!
Fri Apr 24, 2026, 07:24 PM
3 hrs ago

I retired in 2012, at 60 years of age. Mostly because Scott Walker had destroyed our collective bargaining agreement, but also to pursue our family genealogy! Many warned me it was "too soon" Best decision I have ever made in life! I've driven from New York to Los Angeles, searching out old tombstones, visiting county clerks offices, and talking to many people, much wiser than I!

The point being, that there is quite a lot out there to enjoy. I wanted to enjoy it while I could still jump for joy!

Frankly speaking

Response to The Madcap (Original post)

IzzaNuDay

(1,306 posts)
40. Welcome to retirement!
Fri Apr 24, 2026, 07:31 PM
2 hrs ago

Definitely an opportunity to shape your time into what you want to do! Enjoy!

UpInArms

(55,145 posts)
41. After I retired, I wondered how I ever had time to work
Fri Apr 24, 2026, 07:32 PM
2 hrs ago

I hope you enjoy every minute of life without having anyone but yourself to boss you around

Congratulations!

dwp6577

(124 posts)
44. good on you!...I turn 62 next Feb.
Fri Apr 24, 2026, 07:33 PM
2 hrs ago

hoping for a layoff (and severance) in Dec . Regardless, 62 is it, or AI will eliminate me earlier. Enjoy!

Prof. Toru Tanaka

(2,947 posts)
45. Congratulations and enjoy your retirement!
Fri Apr 24, 2026, 07:35 PM
2 hrs ago

One of my favorite things about retirement is sleeping a little later in the morning. Or if I’m up early a little nap in the afternoon.

Enjoy your newfound time off and all the best!

Fla Dem

(27,698 posts)
46. Congratulations!!
Fri Apr 24, 2026, 07:43 PM
2 hrs ago

Take some time to relax and get used to the life where you don't have to get up at 5:00 am to be on your job by 8:00 and a life where have the whole day ahead of you to do what you want.

I hope you do enjoy your retirement, but you may need to find some extracurricular actives to fill your day. Golfing, volunteering at a food pantry or even getting a parttime job; nothing strenuous but one where you work a few hours a day, a few days a week, One where you get to meet and interact with other people. And there are hobbies and travel. So much you can look forward to. But as I said take some time to get used to your new life and then decide what you want to do next.

Good Luck and Enjoy!!!

Sanity Claws

(22,423 posts)
47. Congratulations and welcome!
Fri Apr 24, 2026, 07:46 PM
2 hrs ago

I retired March 30 and moved at the same time. Like you, I'm concerned whether I will make it financially. I intend to apply for part-time and occasional work to supplement my social security, pension, and savings.

S/V Loner

(9,557 posts)
50. Congrats...
Fri Apr 24, 2026, 07:54 PM
2 hrs ago

I retired almost two years ago years ago at 70 when I sold my business. I am still trying to get used to it.

Figarosmom

(12,610 posts)
52. I love being retired. Congrats 🎊
Fri Apr 24, 2026, 07:57 PM
2 hrs ago

Especially in the winter. It is now my favorite time of year. I love not being forced to do something.

KitFox

(589 posts)
54. I am so happy for you! I was fortunate enough to retire 18 years ago. I loved my job, but I have never regretted having
Fri Apr 24, 2026, 08:02 PM
2 hrs ago

made that decision. Before my husband died, we were able to have nine years together with both of us retired. Those memories still sustain me. I love being able to attend all of my grandchildren’s games and events and the freedom to spend time on my hobbies and interests. Keep us posted on your new journey! 😊

moonshinegnomie

(4,033 posts)
55. I retired 20 years ago
Fri Apr 24, 2026, 08:04 PM
2 hrs ago

I retired young when I got to old . ( I was a commodity trader on the floor).
I was very worried about the future but it’s worked out despite having to go thru the global financial crisis and all the rest of tge crap over 30 years)


Don’t regret it at all although I still trade stocks a lot

TexLaProgressive

(12,766 posts)
57. Congratulations
Fri Apr 24, 2026, 08:15 PM
2 hrs ago

The end of February was my 11th retirement anniversary. I can remember the same trepidation you are feeling. We all know the uncertainties of the current world we live in. The truth is life has always been filled with them.

Good luck to you in your new life. I hope you enjoy it as much as I have.

Aussie105

(8,063 posts)
58. Welcome to your new life!
Fri Apr 24, 2026, 08:18 PM
2 hrs ago

Details will fall into place as time goes by, and you now have plenty of that, being unshackled from the daily work routine.

Retired over 10 years ago, so believe me, retirement makes you a better person.

I was told: Sorry, but your position is gone, but here is a decent severance package. Hope you aren't too upset!

I smiled and looked away.
Severance pay of 1 year's wage after tax was an unexpected bonus.
You think you played me? Think again!

markie

(24,030 posts)
61. congratulations!!
Fri Apr 24, 2026, 08:23 PM
2 hrs ago


I understand the uncertainty... I retired years ago because I had to care for my father with dementia.... not because I wanted to.... I wasn't sure then, however, it has worked out and we manage somehow with our situation at hand

best wishes

BHDem53

(1,151 posts)
62. As a member of the BMWE-IBT, I was able to retire thirteen years ago at age 60...
Fri Apr 24, 2026, 08:25 PM
2 hrs ago

with a nice monthly check from the U.S. Railroad Retirement Board. Thank you Unions!

Norrrm

(5,314 posts)
64. Congrats! Find a little something to take up a bit of your time. No full-time rocking chair or fishing boat.
Fri Apr 24, 2026, 08:30 PM
2 hrs ago

Last edited Fri Apr 24, 2026, 09:08 PM - Edit history (1)

School - part-time student or teach some skill you have.
Part-time job.
Volunteer - Don't let it become a full-time 'job' without pay but has
................ full time responsibilities. Volunteering can stretch that far.
Get the hell out of the house sometimes. Spouse loves your absence as well as your presence.
............... (both spouses). Each spouse should have a personal piece of their own life.

There will surely be other suggestions.

Don't sit and rot.

Trueblue Texan

(4,549 posts)
69. Congratulations!
Fri Apr 24, 2026, 08:41 PM
1 hr ago

I retired 3 years ago…I think it’s pretty common to be anxious and scared that you haven’t saved enough. Turns out I worried needlessly. Life is working out ok and now that I have extra time, it’s easy to cut back on expenses if we have to. You will love this phase of your life. Be sure to stay physically active every day or you will be shocked how fast your body can age! Have FUN!

alison_in_nc

(6 posts)
70. Congratulations!
Fri Apr 24, 2026, 08:42 PM
1 hr ago

I retired last year at 62. So great so far!

Definitely agree on the financial aspect especially with President Crazy Pants at the helm.

Richluu

(156 posts)
71. Good Luck!
Fri Apr 24, 2026, 09:11 PM
1 hr ago

I've been retired for 12 years now. It's really good. Find your joy and ways to serve. It never gets old!

NewLarry

(162 posts)
73. WOW!
Fri Apr 24, 2026, 09:32 PM
58 min ago

Good for you. I've been retired for about 8 months now, and it's been an "interesting" time making the many changes needed.

Above all, remember, Have Fun!!!

WarGamer

(18,765 posts)
74. I'll retire and collect SS in a year...
Fri Apr 24, 2026, 09:34 PM
57 min ago

I don't really need the $ so I'll just use it to buy monthly dividend stocks.

magicarpet

(19,026 posts)
76. Enjoy the freedom away from the constraints imposed by working.
Fri Apr 24, 2026, 09:47 PM
43 min ago

You earned and deserved the opportunity to smell the roses, daffodils, zinnias, lilacs, snap dragons, cherry blossoms etc., etc..

Faux pas

(16,457 posts)
78. Enjoy!
Fri Apr 24, 2026, 09:52 PM
38 min ago
It might take a while to sink in. Lol it took me at least 5 years to get used to being retired.
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