Pulled the trigger and notified the benefits department

[QuietByNature]

I have been with the company 25+ years and have decided to retire early at 61, Jan. 2nd 2026 will be my last day. I will take a hit on my pension, that has added stress and anxiety.
I want to get out while I still have my health (well most of it)

Our benefits department needs 3 months advanced notice to start the process of my pension.
I have a meeting setup next Tuesday to drop the bomb on my boss, not sure how she will take it. But I have thought long and hard about this and it is the time for me to get out.

Since my former boss retired 16 months ago, things have not been the same and I feel that the environment is no longer a happy one.
Work has become more stressful, something I do not need in my life, Got enough already.

 

[Muskrat]

Sometimes the hardest thing is the jump. Good you have a plan….

 

[PeppermintPatty]

Knowing when to retire can be stressful. It’s good that you are taking this seriously.

 

[IrishEyes]

You know you best and it sounds like you are taking some great readings from your
body and mind. I wish you a peaceful and smooth transition once it begins.

 

[Oldeagle66]

I got out at 55 and glad I did. Soon as I hit 65 it seemed like my warranty ran out and all the health problems started. So I had ten years of easy, stress free living.

 

[MACKTEXAS]

I have been with the company 25+ years and have decided to retire early

Since my former boss retired 16 months ago, things have not been the same and I feel that the environment is no longer a happy one.

Much of what you wrote sounds like a post I could have written, since I went through the same thing. I left and never looked back. Wishing you well.

 

[QuietByNature]

Sometimes the hardest thing is the jump. Good you have a plan….

Not sure how far that plan will keep me jumping

 

[QuietByNature]

Knowing when to retire can be stressful. It’s good that you are taking this seriously.

Been discussing it with SWMBO for the last year and yep it's time.

 

[QuietByNature]

You know you best and it sounds like you are taking some great readings from your
body and mind. I wish you a peaceful and smooth transition once it begins.

My body is start to tell me enough is enough .
Peaceful? I doubt my better half will allow any peace time

 

[QuietByNature]

I got out at 55 and glad I did. Soon as I hit 65 it seemed like my warranty ran out and all the health problems started. So I had ten years of easy, stress free living.

I hoping for at least 10 years. Got some ailments that need taking care of though. And, of course I gotta be around for my 3 grandkids

 

[QuietByNature]

Much of what you wrote sounds like a post I could have written, since I went through the same thing. I left and never looked back. Wishing you well.

Thank you, I will move forward and never look back. I just have to get through telling my boss next week.

 

[DaveA]

I have been with the company 25+ years and have decided to retire early at 61, Jan. 2nd 2026 will be my last day. I will take a hit on my pension, that has added stress and anxiety.
I want to get out while I still have my health (well most of it)

Our benefits department needs 3 months advanced notice to start the process of my pension.
I have a meeting setup next Tuesday to drop the bomb on my boss, not sure how she will take it. But I have thought long and hard about this and it is the time for me to get out.

Since my former boss retired 16 months ago, things have not been the same and I feel that the environment is no longer a happy one.
Work has become more stressful, something I do not need in my life, Got enough already.

Go for it !! I retired at 58 and, if I last, I'll be 92 in December. Nothing much we can do about our health. It is what it is. My advice, (if you can handle it financially) - - - take the money and run!

Good luck to you, whatever your choice.