First Month of Retirement

I have been retired for a month now. I can’t believe it! Like I said in my first week of retirement post, I am more relaxed and happier. 

I have had more time for projects.

I have had more quality time with friends.

And I have had more time for self-care.

The biggest adjustment this month has been adjusting in general.

I thought that my first month of retirement was going to be more grand. Like fireworks going off every evening and epic hikes everyday. I would sit around when I was working just daydreaming about all the possibilities when I had more free time. I was going to blog more, create Youtube videos, and start some other new hobby.

I knew I would experience some or even a lot of feelings about quitting my job. But I honestly thought my focus would be on money. Instead what I find myself focused on is how to identify myself in American society. 

Telling people I’m retired at 39, isn’t working for me. *strange looks *awkward questions.

Maybe I’ll start saying I’m a dog walker. IDK. Luckily I have time to figure this out. pic.twitter.com/CmqMlTQ9Zw

— Aha FIRE (@aha_fire) February 15, 2022

A common question most Americans ask someone is ‘What do you do?’ For me that is a difficult question now. I didn’t realize it but my identity was wrapped into my job. So do I say I am retired, unemployed, or a stay-at-home dog dad? Or do I say, ‘I do my best, my best, that is what I do.’ 

Whatever I decide to spend my time on or whatever I say I do, I am very grateful for this experience. I suppose I am right where I need to be. Feeling the emotions I need to feel. Ready for the next chapter of my life.