would you change jobs with 10 more years before retirement?

[Anonymous]

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Anonymous wrote:I left a government agency after 20 years and am in my early 50’s. My story is very similar to yours. I just couldn’t take it any longer, and I couldn’t find something better internally. I was able to retire early and take my medical insurance with me. I’m fortunate that I don’t need to work, but I’m thinking of doing something else. I sometimes think about returning, but then my stomach churns, and I know that I must look in another direction.

Just a note. I’ve noticed that a lot of government workers have declining health into their late 50s and 60s. On the surface, this seems odd because financially they will soon have a secure retirement. However, I think the last 10 years of government service takes a heavy, heavy toll on many government workers. They are bored and just waiting for retirement. They sit, eat, and complain. It is not a physically or mentally healthy lifestyle. It’s crazy how many people I know who had major health issues just before or after retirement. A good number died.

Happiness and joy are worth more than a government job.

DP.

Yep. At least for me, taking a little risk to achieve makes me feel like I’m living, not dying. Staying in place feels like dying at the moment and I’m on my way out. My family has enough stability that we can adjust if I swing and miss, but I want to go out swinging. I think this really hit home for me last year, when I had a serious health scare (I’m ok now). Life is too short.

Yeah, risk is fun as long as it doesn’t leave you homeless or divorced. Your kids are grown so what’s the worst that happens is early retirement

I have a middle schooler but I have talked with my spouse extensively about what life might look like if I fail miserably. We will be ok. Getting priorities lined up is a very important part of the decision making.

I assume you’re the DW? Yeah most DH won’t care if their wife quits working as long as that same wife accepts the lifestyle that DH income affords. Happy wife happy life. Not an option for most DH.

I’m the DW but out earn my spouse by six figures. So no, that’s not the deal. But we’re okay with me taking the risk while he coasts a while longer. It’s all about timing in our case.

Dang he needs to make more. Where does he work? Burger King?

Government. Private sector pay for him will be much higher when he leaves, but not until I max out my potential or quit. Anyway, it’s all about timing and what works for your family.

[Anonymous]

Just did! No regrets.

[Anonymous]

Yes, absolutely don't wait!

[Anonymous]

Ten years is a long time, so yes, definitely okay to change in that time frame. Unless, as others have said, you would be giving up a pension or medical benefits. In that case you need to consider the impact and relative importance in your financial situation.

If the job is toxic or causing you mental or physical stress, leaving becomes a much bigger priority.