Damn it. Didn't want to get drawn into this one, but gonna anyhoo.
For me, I need some definitions in this thread. "Retired" - what does that mean zactly?!
I joined the Army at 17 and "retired" at 37 due to injuries that prevented me from playing shoot 'em up again. According to Uncle Sugar.
I was hardly "retired." Uncle Sugar threw a few bucks for booze and golf my way monthly, but there was no way in Hell I "retire" on what they were paying. A wife. 3 young kids - nope. I took it as a chance to be the Dad, I couldn't before and started a new career. So, to me, working again. Jack and shit in the bank on that pay. Just sayin'.
Next career, my wife needs an advanced degree to succeed. So I start paying on that and establishing myself as a stinkin' civilian. Then the divorce. Wiped me the fuck out. Put me in the hole in fact. She rides a broom and is evil. Lesson learned.
Get my advanced degree, hustle and start making real money. Pay off the disastrous divorce. Start saving for real. Kids through college, etc.
I'm now mid-50s (ish). Got some cash on the side (investments and otherwise) besides the 401k and IRA rollover stuff.
Reckon, the soonest I retire (as in, no more "work" required to support me till I croak) is 62. That is my plan. I want a certain payout every month without draining something else to hold me in case my dumb ass lives into my 90s. But, I also do not want "work" when retired. I want to wander around the woods, hunt and travel to keep the new woman settled. I give two shits about seeing the world-already have for the most part. They can have it.
Is "retired" in this thread, what I think it means, or is it, "I want to not work for the man and do what I want?!"
If'n you have the money to cover the difference-"retire" do what floats your boat. If you have a passion, it isn't work. It is what you are. If'n you need the security of money coming in - keep working for "someone" that is taking the risk and paying you for profits.
Doing your thing should ALWAYS be the goal. No matter what.
Apologies for the novella here boys - it seems we are not saying the same shit with our words.
And for those asking about health insurance-all you have to do is let assholes shoot at you for a couple decades. Uncle Sugar will cover you till you are a Medicaid baby and expendable. Lucky us.