F61, had a steep hill to climb from a horrific divorce 12 years ago, been learning from many sources, including this sub. I was looking at a vastly downgraded retirement from what I would have had in that marriage — if I didn’t make a lot of money while I was still employable in my 50s. I made up my mind I did not want to work past about 61-62, I was willing to go hard to make it happen. (And it was stressful.)
I did manage to do it. Did not make software developer money, but a couple of sales jobs over these years allowed me to thrive, I tapped into those skills I used ages ago, before I was a SAHM for 12 years. Reentering at my age and proving myself was really tough, but I had a few good breaks and a couple people that came through for me with referrals (who remembered me from — I kid you not — the very early 1990s!). Had about $600K in invested assets in 2014, now at $2.76 M. Shoveled money into brokerage & tax deferred, kept a modest car, my house is totally fine but “below” what people would expect given my income.
I get bored easily so I may do some low-stress contract work, not sure. I will see how things feel.
Thanks to people here who help people like me!