I Retired Early at 47 - Have I Lost My Purpose? | Early Retirement

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  • Опубліковано 13 гру 2024

КОМЕНТАРІ • 60

  • @henrikeriksson3227
    @henrikeriksson3227 День тому +8

    I quit working when I was 46 (3,5 years ago). For the first 6-12 months I had a feeling that "I need to do something and what I should be at work" but after a while that feeling faded away. Now I go to the gym Mon-Fri to get rutins in my life and to separate weekdays from weekends. I also travel a lot (I bought a camper van). Now that I am used to not working and I could never ever go back to a normal job again. So just relax and get unplugged from the fake feeling that you have to do something. YOU DONT HAVE TO ANYTHING! Its your life. Enjoy it!

    • @FreeBeforeFifty
      @FreeBeforeFifty  14 годин тому +2

      I'm hoping that feeling will fade away soon, once I get used to spending money rather than saving.

    • @henrikeriksson3227
      @henrikeriksson3227 5 годин тому

      @@FreeBeforeFifty
      It will go away but it will take a while. Throughout your life, society has told you to work and consume to be happy. That is a lie. In a few months when you are deprogrammed, you will see the world in a different way. Good luck on your journey to true freedom.

  • @jonathanwest624
    @jonathanwest624 День тому +4

    I had the same feeling when I retired after 25 years at 46. Within 3 months, I went back to coding in the corporate world again and instantly regretted it!
    I left after just a few months and started a small gardening business working a few days a week as that's something I enjoy doing. The smaller earnings are all a bonus, so you can relax about that side of things and just do as much as you like. I feel more satisfaction working for yourself and helping people and not sitting at a desk all day.
    I advise anyone in a similar situation to find something you enjoy and maybe turn it into a small business or work part-time in an environment related to your hobbies or helping people. Once you leave the corporate world retired and taste freedom, don't make the mistake of going back.

  • @tavners8044
    @tavners8044 6 годин тому

    Cant wait to what you do. Im 44 can see my self next 5-10 year stepping out or finding something else. Winding down

  • @TheTW1
    @TheTW1 День тому +2

    Hey Vinny, love the channel and hearing of your journey. So it's absolutely normal. A lot of us have part of our identity rooted in our careers. I'm eyeing retirement in the next 1.5 years, and I've been trying to build what my mission will be post-retirement. I think a lot of folks eye retirement as a finish line. I certainly thought that way. But you realize there's a lot of years (hopefully) after you call it, and you do need something to focus your efforts on. Volunteering, mentorship, self-development, teaching, etc. I have also seen folks struggle with the removal of the externally-imposed framework. When we work, we tend to organize our lives around our workdays. Without careers / work, we have to build our own self-imposed framework, and move to a fully intrinsic-based motivation system. It really is a dramatic change, but I am glad to hear you are having these discussions and thoughts. It's such an important part of the process. It could be helpful to explore teaching or mentorship in your area of expertise.

    • @FreeBeforeFifty
      @FreeBeforeFifty  День тому

      Thanks for your insight - you have given me some good ideas!

  • @ryangibson4226
    @ryangibson4226 20 годин тому +1

    Hi Vinny,
    Love the rawness of the channel. Please don't change this should it grow. It's very authentic and relatable.
    After watching all your videos, I question whether you had 'purpose' in your old job or whether it was 'comfort'. You had a nice list of deliverables, a friendly team, and colleagues to socialise with. I call work-lazy socialising, as most of the time, there's no expectation away from work, so it's a Monday-Friday thing but gives people the social hit they need.
    From what you've described you miss the structure, routine and familiarity of work. Having free time needs to be worked on which is why so many go back to their job. It's also ingrained in society that is what you do. Conversations are always how busy people are, how much work they have and how tired they are. If you can break that you'll find far more meaning and purpose elsewhere.
    At the age of 36 I sold my online educational business in 2021. We are technically lean fire right now but with market appreciation, we shouldn't have to invest much more to have a comfortable life.
    The reason I sold my business was to lead a life-before-work mentality. It's been three years, and I am still exploring that. Since then, I've largely consulted between 6 and 10 days a month. This has dropped progressively as we've invested the money/markets have stabilised a little.
    My wife is also teaching 1 1/2 days a week although this is a temporary position and has only been the case for the past 3 months.
    IMO if you have the runway of retirement money to do so you should develop such an arrangement. There are risks including leaving money on the table in key earning years but the upsides outweigh these. I tend to spend around 3 hours a day on the computer and am able to exercise every day, cook great food as well as other hobbies and be present in both our young children's lives. Is there an option for something similar or your own websites/apps like you said?
    For me, the overall quality of life has improved substantially. Stress levels have faded away (on the whole). I think it's easy for your baseline to shift (shifting baseline syndrome) and you forget all the bits you hated about formalised work.
    In terms of work, you can be more picky with who you choose to work with. I tend to vet the client during early interactions to see if we are a good fit for one another. Id also prefer clients with grounded expectations who are happy for me to work without constant interaction with them. I mostly probably charge below the market rate but it works for me and works for them.
    My overall advice is that if you can find some sort of work as you have mentioned and perhaps explore social circles. Co-working spaces are IMO something you should consider or a coffee shop. These give you the social interaction you had at work. Given our FIRE personalities opportunities do arise and you are able to cherry-pick what works for you. It's very early days and you seem to be the type who isn't going to settle for nothing. But that doesn't mean going back to the corporate gig which didn't give you purpose at all; just structure. Someone who can create this UA-cam channel, invest from their 20's and research as meticulously as you do with individual stock picking should be able to try a couple of projects to give you real purpose beyond a 9-5.
    Sometimes you can question whether you should be grinding like everyone else but ultimately when I'm on the bike at 10am on a Tuesday that fades away.
    There's a big old life out there beyond work and if you've saved diligently you can earn enough to cover most of your core expenses (in our case we have broken even every year since the sale) and still have the freedom and autonomy away from work.
    I also know if the consultancy dries up (I work in Digital Marketing and AI is a long-term factor) I can pivot and retrain or actually just use my investments. It's the same for you. So many opportunities you just need to give it time.
    Hope this contributes to the discussion a little.

    • @FreeBeforeFifty
      @FreeBeforeFifty  14 годин тому

      Thanks for your insight and sharing your experience - this is really helpful. I think you are right, I am missing the social side and the structure. If I can replace at least some of that, I'll be OK I think. Really appreciate your input - this has given me a lot to think about.

  • @jerryn9690
    @jerryn9690 Годину тому

    I wasn't convinced when you said you'd be mountaineering to keep busy. I plan to keep doing some form of paid work into retirement even if on a part time basis (my dad looked bored when he retired early).
    It's only early days Vinny. You're still figuring this out as you recently became redundant before deciding to retire. Just write down a list of things you wish to occupy your days. I can't remember what you said you did but could there be some contracting work available on your terms/low work? Volunteering is a good shout if you're into that type of thing. I'm no help really as I need to work/reason to leave the house to stop me going mad 🤪 (I'm a bit loco you see)
    I've never been to Fuerteventura. Is it nice?

  • @rosscook1549
    @rosscook1549 День тому

    I started watching UA-camrs in the financial/retirement space and you’re my go-to now - just calm no bs advice

  • @Bethy177
    @Bethy177 14 годин тому

    To me, the best thing about retiring was that I could now choose what to do with my time. I chose to split it between triathlon training, housekeeping and volunteering (2 days a week helping kids catch up with reading). The thing I am most grateful for is the fact that it’s my choice and I don’t have to do anything I don’t want to in order to pay the bills. It’s a huge privilege that I’m grateful every day for and nothing I ever did a work makes me this happy.

  • @driftingintoretirement
    @driftingintoretirement 21 годину тому

    Congrats on the redundancy cheque. The feeling is normal. Within a year you will not want to go back. I am currently undertaking world travel for the next 5 years after retiring 2 years ago. I fill my day with study, reading, travel, development of my UA-cam channel and some community work. Enjoy your holiday and live the simple life.

  • @NeilMason-qe3ww
    @NeilMason-qe3ww День тому

    Relax, enjoy life if you need work, get something .I retired 6 months ago at 52 I don't miss those Sunday afternoons filled dread

    • @FreeBeforeFifty
      @FreeBeforeFifty  14 годин тому

      Definitely don't miss the Sunday afternoons!

  • @timjenkins3600
    @timjenkins3600 14 годин тому

    Hey Vinny, it's entirely normal to feel this way at this early stage. From the age of five you've had the daily discipline of school or work. You will, however, get thru this stage and come out with something better. Voluntary work is a good idea, or set yourself up in consultancy or stack shelves in Sainburys etc. just something to give you the work discipline a couple of days a week. If you make a few quid out of it, even better. I quit at 49 and ten years later I have a much better quality of life. Good luck with the journey and please message me if you want a telephone chat so we can talk more about my experience and coping strategies. Best wishes, Tim.

    • @FreeBeforeFifty
      @FreeBeforeFifty  13 годин тому

      Thanks Tim! Yes I agree, I think I just need some time to process having less of a routine. I like the idea of doing something part time.

  • @MakeItCount-55
    @MakeItCount-55 День тому

    Congratulations on the redundancy payment. Yes, it's a pretty normal feeling. It will help that you are sharing your thoughts on UA-cam. I'm spending time educating myself on AI, more time with the family, ramped up my exercise, and coaching. There are not enough hours in the day. And frankly, over all of this, I gave myself the permission to slow down a bit. My tip would be to list out the skills/knowledge you have and ask yourself what could you do that is a convergence of a few of these, and you would do even if you were not paid.

    • @jayplays568
      @jayplays568 День тому

      What exactly do you mean when you say you do some "coaching"? What does it involve and how do you go about getting customers?

    • @MakeItCount-55
      @MakeItCount-55 День тому +1

      @jayplays568 The coaching is not paid work. I do it for old employees and colleagues. You might also say it's mentoring, but I'm keen on seeing them progress, so we set goals/targets and actions etc and follow up.

  • @Bracebarian
    @Bracebarian 15 годин тому

    Agree, avoid the FTSE and go for a global index fund or ETF in a S&S ISA. I retired in June and got my self a Van conversion project to keep my mind occupied as I like you (ex software dev) go through the transition. I have decided to do nothing for 12 months rather than jumping in. Then I will look for local charities to support.

    • @FreeBeforeFifty
      @FreeBeforeFifty  14 годин тому

      Thinking the same about ETFs or a global index fund, thanks!

    • @Bracebarian
      @Bracebarian 14 годин тому +1

      @ I use VHVG. It’s diversified, low fee.

  • @susanlewis1953
    @susanlewis1953 День тому

    Everyone needs a purpose. Volunteer and start a business. Good luck 😊 Sue

  • @shecanbudget1170
    @shecanbudget1170 День тому

    I can understand what you're saying as your body & mind has been conditioned to work for years. Scarcity mindset will play into the thought process too.
    Is your new 'job' / 'work' now property development, as you were already doing that in your spare time? Or how about questioning the gremlins in your subconscious whether you have replaced software with your new channel? It might not feel like work but it still takes time, involves thought & provides valuable outcomes.... which is similar to a traditional 'work' process. Maybe it's a viewpoint shift that's required more than a mindset shift? 🤔
    Hope you both enjoy your holiday!

  • @nortonr
    @nortonr День тому

    I'm about to retire at 54. I have a few plans. I've worked with computers for over 40 years and I want to go back to basics and learn electronics so I can build and repair equipment. Linked is an interest in computer preservation. The local hospital has been amazing so I want to do charity work for them. I need to get thinner and fitter.
    What I don't know is how to socialise again and meet new people 😟

    • @FreeBeforeFifty
      @FreeBeforeFifty  14 годин тому

      I used to run some groups on Meetup.com - great place to find like minded people. I made a lot of friends there.

  • @chrispitman5417
    @chrispitman5417 8 годин тому

    I think the “purpose” you are talking about is identity. For years you’ve identified as a software developer. You’ve now been made redundant and realise you have enough money that you don’t need to work anymore. The thing is without your career, without work, what are you? I think the thing is to look at yourself and define the identity you wish to have and then let go of/ mourn the past identity you want to move away from. So the question is, and perhaps the topic of a future video, how would you define your identity?

    • @FreeBeforeFifty
      @FreeBeforeFifty  5 годин тому +1

      Thank you - this is very helpful. Definitely lost the 'identity', and need to replace it with something else

  • @JohnBowman-ut4dz
    @JohnBowman-ut4dz День тому

    Hi I totally understand where you are coming from my self and some friends have been in a similar position.the one thing we all have in common is we are all very motivated people and very sensible with investments and money. So some of the things we've done is voluntary projects abroad for a few months (exciting adventure and helping people in need) getting together with good friends and going tracking in Himalayas for a few months . trying a completely different business for a couple of days a week and being self employed your own boss. The biggest thing is having friends that have similar time to go on adventure's and to do separate things for your wife so you still have your own time or you could get on each others nerves. It's just finding the right balance great video thanks John 👍.

    • @FreeBeforeFifty
      @FreeBeforeFifty  День тому +1

      Thanks John! Definitely doing too much sitting around the house at the moment!

  • @spencerholdaway
    @spencerholdaway 14 годин тому

    It sounds as if your reasons for retiring are negative and not positive, as in the things you don't want to do (your old job) rather than to have planned the new things you want to do. I assume because you were made redundant, and therefore it wasn't planned. Having a purpose is a natural feeling, despite some people will say that it goes away, everyone is different. Only having money to live on is often not enough for some people, especially if you do it in your 40s. There's nothing wrong with still working, as long as money isn't an issue and you enjoy it. I don't understand people in a hurry to retire early just because they want to stop working, when often they don't enjoy their job and feel pigeonholed into a career or industry they don't like. If you have money, go and try something completely different, but I appreciate everyone has a alternative view. As Steve Jobs once said, do the thing you love.

    • @FreeBeforeFifty
      @FreeBeforeFifty  13 годин тому

      Agree with you - I think redundancy kind of pushed me into retiring earlier than I planned, and I had no plan. I probably would have continued working for a couple more years.

  • @j-bow.mylife97
    @j-bow.mylife97 12 годин тому

    You should never consider your purpose 'lost' in respect of a job, how about consider you are being re-purposed? Your new purpose can be 'you' (health, fitness, quality of life etc) and your family. What's better than that?

  • @abipugh9861
    @abipugh9861 День тому

    Have you watched/read Aurter Brooks ‘The Art of Happiness’? May help.

  • @50retireplan
    @50retireplan День тому

    Maybe a hobby job? It's good to let yourself be bored though as this will make you more self aware and stimulate your creativity

  • @51drue15
    @51drue15 17 годин тому

    With your software background you should work for yourself that way you can choose how much workload your happy taking on. Personal I retired at 50 and never looked back and traveling the world

    • @FreeBeforeFifty
      @FreeBeforeFifty  14 годин тому

      I've thought about starting a software business but not even sure what I'd do. Maybe I will look into an SAAS offering.

    • @51drue15
      @51drue15 14 годин тому +1

      @ there is always demand for small business web design if your capabilities can convert to this sector

  • @swiss8653
    @swiss8653 День тому

    Looks terrible out there, hope you’re enjoying it! ☀️😂 This is my worry, I still have another 10 years until retirement but I am concerned I’ll be bored when it finally happens. Surely now’s the time to find a job that you’ve always wanted to try? Money not being a motivational factor. Part time, 2-3 days a week? Still part of a team and enjoying all the social benefits that come with it, but little to no commitment or stress!

    • @FreeBeforeFifty
      @FreeBeforeFifty  День тому

      It's awful out here, wish I was in the UK 😂 I always fancied being an I.T. teacher but not even sure where to start with that!

    • @swiss8653
      @swiss8653 День тому +1

      @@FreeBeforeFiftymy wife’s a teacher, she says forget about that! If you’ve managed to retire at 47 she said to go in as an inspirational speaker and tell the kids how you’ve managed to do it!😄

    • @FreeBeforeFifty
      @FreeBeforeFifty  9 годин тому

      Good idea!

  • @jayplays568
    @jayplays568 День тому +4

    It would be awesome to see a video about what kind of income you get to be able to retire at 47 and what the sources of it are. I would love to be able yo retire but I'm not sure how to think about the level of income that would be enough to not have to work and how to generate that income passively eo hearing from someone like yourself who has already done it would be really helpful!

    • @FreeBeforeFifty
      @FreeBeforeFifty  14 годин тому +1

      A lot of people are saying around 40k is a good income to retire on - I'm able to manage on a lot less than that.

    • @jayplays568
      @jayplays568 13 годин тому

      @@FreeBeforeFifty Wow, even in the UK? That's impressive, gives me hope I might make it one day! Did you ever consider moving to the Canary Islands or somewhere warmer than the UK?

  • @BasicBeachCommunity1
    @BasicBeachCommunity1 День тому

    where u from in the UK ?

    • @lannyjr1042
      @lannyjr1042 22 години тому +1

      100% sound kings English

    • @FreeBeforeFifty
      @FreeBeforeFifty  14 годин тому

      Liverpool originally - although I no longer live there now (but not far away!)

  • @lukeorford
    @lukeorford День тому

    Learn, Earn, Return

  • @loisdowns3688
    @loisdowns3688 День тому

    Very honest video! I think you sound like you have too much energy and too many ideas to sit around, and I think work is more important for men. However, I don’t think that needs to be work in your previous field. Could you create something from your hobbies or even your financial knowledge? I’m a weary, part time, diabetes nurse looking it retire at 55 (2029) but I primarily want to be a housewife. However, I live in a poor area and am thinking about ways I could support people with diet advice (obesity is a big problem here) or budgeting (another problem I see locally). I’m planning to just take the first 6 months off though!

    • @FreeBeforeFifty
      @FreeBeforeFifty  14 годин тому

      Maybe start a UA-cam channel? Same where I live, a lot of people struggling with poor diets and obesity. Very popular subject!

    • @loisdowns3688
      @loisdowns3688 12 годин тому

      @ That has crossed my mind!

  • @alexmac2010
    @alexmac2010 День тому

    Come to Chester and do BJJ .. it’s massively addictive and you’d progress quickly with loads of free time 🥋
    (You sound like you live close with that accent 😉)

    • @FreeBeforeFifty
      @FreeBeforeFifty  14 годин тому

      Sounds interesting! My friend is an Aikido instructor, he keeps asking me to join his club