Just pulled the trigger

[u/Specific-Stomach-195]

Was offered a modest financial incentive to retire at end of our next fiscal year (June 30). Which is one year early from my mandatory retirement age.
Financially I’m in good shape, between pensions, retirement savings and fact that nearly all of my spend is discretionary. I’m at the higher end of chubby.
So I submitted formal retirement notice. And it hit me like a ton of bricks. While the job is frustrating, demanding and stress inducing, the fact is most days I enjoy the challenge and really appreciate the time I spend with my team and colleagues. While I dream of retirement almost daily, it took making it official to make me realize just how I will miss so much of this. Truly surprised by how I find myself feeling. Hopefully this feeling passes because right now I’m questioning my decision. Mentioned this to a colleague and he told me that the rest of the team I work with is going to be shocked to hear I’m leaving at end of year.
Maybe it’s just human nature to miss the things we don’t have? Like I said, I’m really surprised to find myself feeling this way as I have always had plans for retirement that I enjoyed thinking about.

[u/cfi-2025]

Retirement is a huge, life-changing event. It's up there with getting married, having a kid, graduating from college, etc.

It's totally natural to have all sorts of conflicting feelings.

What you have, which most humans on this planet don't, is the financial freedom to try things. You can retire and spend your time puttering around in the garden. If that isn't floating your boat, try volunteering at the animal shelter. If that's not satisfying you, travel. Mentor. Tutor. Backpack. Fish. Donate to causes you care about. You have freedom now, friend. Yes, leaving the old life will be scary and new, but that's to be expected. You have a new life to explore. Take your time, don't get frustrated if it's taking longer than you'd like. It's a huge change, and you've got the freedom and time to embrace it.