Early retirement: advice please?

[Trevor]

In September, I turn 55 and according to our laws here, I can take early retirement.

I am really tired and feel both used up and worn out, partly because of what is happening in my personal life and partly because I feel like my colleagues only know me when there is a crisis and they need a "Mr Fixit".

I am largely ignored at work: no one needs my expertise in archiving unless it is a client but if issues arise - like the "lost film crisis" of 2021, then yes, leave it to the guy with the worn out face and diminished spirit.

Yes, I can do my job and I can do it well: but seriously, I am too old, too tired and feel too sick to carry on. 

[Alex]

I am retiring in 18 months mate. Go for it and enjoy life.

[LilCerberus]

I got on disability back in 2005, & it was okay for a while, but that was after looking for work for two years & coming up nil....
I found that volunteer crap on that low power radio station, & it was fun at first, but I found myself having the same problems with people....
I backed away from everything in 2019, & the boredom, the lack of purpose is killing me....

[ER]

I took twenty-five year retirement last year and it's mostly been (strange) great having time and no work-related burdens, especially since I'm young enough to potentially have many good years ahead and can begin something else if I want.

There's a lot to consider, including losing not only some of your income but also the self-identity a long-term job brings but if you are burntout and wanting something else and if you see a better life ahead in retirement, it may be a positive, well-earned step, though mild depression can also arise even amid the happiness of the freedom you get.

Whatever you decide, mate, good luck!

[Rev. Powell]

I can't give any advice on such a personal matter, but if you do retire, and decide to move to Kentucky, and start drinking beer, then I will buy you a beer. 

[RCMerchant]

I'm retired. It's boring, but I am so less stressed.

[Paquita]

I made the decision to leave my job of 20 years last summer and gave them a 6 month notice.  I am working through the end of March or early April.  I thought giving myself such a long runway might make me start to regret it, but the closer I get to the end, the more excited and optimistic I am about it.  I might end up doing the same thing for another company next, but I am eager to do something different and more fulfilling, like handing out bowling shoes.  Seriously, I just want to be more accessible to my family and not chained to Chicago anymore working/commuting 12+ hours a day.  I am hoping to do something remote while working towards a small family business like an antique shop or storyteller tavern in some idyllic woodland setting somewhere.

Are you able to propose retirement to your employers to let them know you are seriously considering it, but haven’t made a decision yet?  If you get it out there, you might be able to see how you really feel about it in a week or a month. If you feel sick about it, you know it’s probably not the right time.

I will let you know if I end up on the stripper hobo train in a couple months, and then you'll know how good my advice is  .

 

[Trevor]

I am retiring in 18 months mate. Go for it and enjoy life.

Thanks 

[Trevor]

I can't give any advice on such a personal matter, but if you do retire, and decide to move to Kentucky, and start drinking beer, then I will buy you a beer. 

Even if I don't retire, I will take you up on the beer offer. 

[LilCerberus]

Start mentoring college kids, get in on the local film maker scene...

[ER]

Actually forget what I said earlier, Trevor my good man, and lemme letcha in on a secret, so lean close. (Most of the major decisions of my life, including marriage, children, what to wear each day, AND retirement, have been made by consulting my trusty Magic 8 Ball.)

Hint-hint? 

[Trevor]

And Trevor's retirement plans come to a screeching halt.  

The reason: I was told today that my career mentor at work - who I see as a big sister - is also planning to retire this year.

If Brenda goes, I have to stay.

There has to be someone there who knows the work, knows the holdings and someone who can deal with the public, none of which are easy to do.

So, plans on hold but thank you all for the advice.  

[Alex]

You could always threaten to retire and parley it into a pay rise?

[Trevor]

You could always threaten to retire and parley it into a pay rise?

 

I wish I could do that but if I did, the only rise I would get is from someone's foot connecting with my backside 

[Allhallowsday]

You could always threaten to retire and parley it into a pay rise?

 

I wish I could do that but if I did, the only rise I would get is from someone's foot connecting with my backside 

  
This sounds like good news.  Perhaps you undervalue your worth because you are taken for granted. 
I was going to ask you about writing a book...   you may not now have time.