Early retirement not always best

By Sandra Cody

For the Salisbury Post

As a reader of the Post, I decided to share my thoughts on retirement with the idea that someone contemplating early retirement might, perhaps, learn from my mistakes.

The sad thing about retiring early is that once you're out of the work force, it's much more difficult to get back in. By age 57, I had adequate years of service to the company, plus, by adding my age to that number, I had the required 80 points required to retire, with insurance coverage (which is a biggie).

I was also tired of learning one new computer system after another, therefore, I felt good about retiring following 38 years of secretarial positions, mainly with two companies.

Reality set in almost immediately after I left the 8 to 5 workplace. I am truly a people person' and found that I missed the daily contact with my co-workers. I felt as though I was practically isolated at home since all my neighbors were still working, and I have never been very domesticated. A happy little homemaker was just not me.

Over the years since, I have had two part-time jobs and done volunteer work — just so I could interact with my peers. I find my energy when around people and need them to recharge my battery, daily.

My advice would be to make sure you're truly ready to retire and can survive at home (24-7). Another word of wisdom would be to start early in your career to make it a habit to save at least a small portion of each paycheck, every week or month because it always takes more money than you ever would have thought to keep your head above water (financially) after retirement.

I was able to save a portion of my monthly income by depositing directly into a pension/savings plan provided by my employer. Social Security is grand, but don't think for a moment that it will be all you'll need to survive, in this economy.

I would say work as many years as you are physically able, because the everyday routine is a purpose that keeps you up and going.

Happy retirement — when the time is right for you!