Long story short was planning to pull the trigger in Mar’25 but held off (one more year’ed) due to the uncertain economic events that were taking place. Told myself Mar’26 was the end date. The additional year of savings and market dynamics certainly helped and I have zero anxiety about the financial aspects of pulling the trigger.
In late 25, was recruited by another firm who made me an offer that was both exciting and financially compelling. Thought to myself I could work another few years and given I was financially independent could bounce anytime I wanted too even if only after a few years. Put my notice in to prior employer in Mar’26, and have been on garden leave since with an early summer start date at the new employer. Was viewing it as a mini-sabbatical and a test drive for early retirement.
The mini-sabbatical has been everything I thought early retirement might feel like. Haven’t been bored once and have enjoyed nearly all aspects of it. Being completely removed from the corporate mindset is refreshing. Prior to this break had never taken more than a week off in 20 years (42M).
Which brings me to my inflection point. I am seriously considering calling the new employer and letting them know I’ve changed my mind and just retire early.
I had anxieties about retiring early that I shared in a prior post, but with this new situation there is an aspect of not following through on a commitment I made that is weighing on me. I know I don’t owe anything to this new employer, but I also made a commitment and this new employer has put a lot in place from an organization perspective based on me joining their leadership team.
Has anyone been through something similar? Would welcome any perspective or thoughts?
Much appreciated.