I FIRE’d March 2023. Mid-40’s S_NK previously in tech. The first two months I felt really free. I traveled quite a bit and connected with a lot of people. But now that the dust has settled, people no longer seem to care or reach out as much. I’m starting to self-doubt and am sometimes worried if I killed my career. What if I can’t find another job if I need to? What if I get bored? I still check my accounts often and need to remind myself that it’s better to be frugal and bored than working and miserable. :)
I think I’d feel more comfortable spending if I built more cushion by working another 2-3 years. I have so much fear that I’ll run out of money despite my calculations showing I’m okay as is. I feel like the lack of social engagement is/will be an issue. All my family and friends are still working and I don’t always want to hang out every weekend either. I miss talking to my coworkers about things I know really well. Now that I think about it, maybe I’m missing intellectual stimulation…?
I FIRE’d March 2023. Mid-40’s S_NK previously in tech. The first two months I felt really free. I traveled quite a bit and connected with a lot of people. But now that the dust has settled, people no longer seem to care or reach out as much. I’m starting to self-doubt and am sometimes worried if I killed my career. What if I can’t find another job if I need to? What if I get bored? I still check my accounts often and need to remind myself that it’s better to be frugal and bored than working and miserable. :)
Do you think you’ll realistically need to go back to work? Is the lack of social engagement becoming an issue? Genuine questions, not loaded.
I think I’d feel more comfortable spending if I built more cushion by working another 2-3 years. I have so much fear that I’ll run out of money despite my calculations showing I’m okay as is. I feel like the lack of social engagement is/will be an issue. All my family and friends are still working and I don’t always want to hang out every weekend either. I miss talking to my coworkers about things I know really well. Now that I think about it, maybe I’m missing intellectual stimulation…?
Have you looked into clubs, volunteering or something that otherwise might scratch both the intellectual and social itch?
Yes and yes, but recovering from a sports injury so am not able to be super active right now. Catching up on a lot of books and shows though! :)