Check Your Emotional Readiness
“Just because ‘everyone’ retires at age 65 doesn’t mean you have to do the same,” said Steen. Before leaving your career, ask yourself if you’re retiring because it’s something you look forward to or because it’s something you expected to do at a particular age milestone.
If you’re constantly asking yourself, “Am I ready to retire?” and never pulling the trigger, you might want to hold off on quitting your day job.
“If you are very unsure of the decision to retire, and have a choice, then don’t do it,” said Steen. “Working longer, perhaps at something new and different, can help you maintain yourself, both financially and mentally.”