I am 55 years old and last year, I was fortunate enough to take an early retirement. It was not planned, the opportunity was presented to me and I had to make a decision quickly. Within a month, I was free. Although most people at my company barely got a handshake upon their departure, I got a glowing e-mail announcement and two farewell parties. I guess they did value me after 28.5 years of blood, sweat and tears.
I was in Sales the past 15 years. My last role started out fun and interesting but after 4 years, the responsibility and workload had multiplied exponentially. I had so many people on my back, crazy deadlines, too much work, ridiculous amounts of conflict and constant pressure. I was ready to explode into a million pieces.
The first Monday morning after I left, I dropped my daughter off at school and stopped at Starbucks. I lazily sipped a venti latte while watching people and cars whiz by. And I thanked God that I didn’t have to participate in the rat race anymore.
My last day was exactly one year ago on March 27th. I haven’t looked back nor have I regretted the decision, not for one second.