Sold my Business at 56

by Gary

I retired at 56 after having sold my business; sort of a "forced" situation. This was right before the financial crisis of 2008, so the timing turned out to be good.

The first year was very difficult; sought counseling and was on depression meds for a short time. Had a couple more "depression bouts" during the first several years. I worked very diligently to find a job working for somebody else; only found some small projects along the way.

Now, 9 years later, I am still trying to create paid work projects.

Since 2008, I became a private pilot.

I spend more time making rock 'n roll, hanging out with new grandkids, traveling, volunteering, etc. The nagging worry is and has always been "running out of money".

But, I am HAPPIER and VERY BUSY now. THIS TAKES TIME. The flexibility of NOT having to work full-time is worth a lot...

Comments for Sold my Business at 56

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Good retirement story
by: Nancy

Your retirement story has given me hope. That it takes time. I am 5 years into retirement, and I was just thinking this morning, I am well out of that stress at work. I remember coming home and being so tired, lying on the sofa, and sometimes something upsetting would happen at work that worried me and I couldn't relax. You are right, it is very wonderful having the flexibility of not working. I don't know how we did it before. Thanks for writing.
Retired early at 56
by: Elna Nugent, Lenox, MA

Gary:: Am wondering if you live in the north or the south and did you have to downsize your living situation in order to make it easier financially?

Sounds as if you are proficient in a lot of areas.
Also wonder if the cause of your depression was having to sell your business or finding out that retirement is a significant challenge.

You are still quite young. Are your parents living and do you have siblings.And do any of them live near you.

You don't have to answer all this but the people in our lives are so important. And you are very important in their lives as well.

Blessings to you and keep us posted.



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