7 Reasons to Never, Ever Retire (even if you can)

Early retirement is for many the holy grail of financial freedom. And yet one study found that 37% of those surveyed regretted retiring when they did. They wish they had worked longer.
Having retired and then unretired three times, I've come to believe that there is a strong case to be made for never retiring. So in this video we walk through the following severn reasons why one should NEVER retire:
0:00: Never Retire
0:58: 1. It's OK to Never Retire
2:21: 2. You can do work you love
4:02: 3. Work can be lifestyle friendly
5:18: 4. Social connections
6:42: 5. Cognitive benefits
8:37: 6. The Money
9:44: 7. To make a difference
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Video Resources
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Financial Regret at Older Ages and Longevity Awareness: www.nber.org/papers/w30696
Early Retirement Can Accelerate Cognitive Decline: neurosciencenews.com/cognitio...
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#retirement #neverretire #robberger
ABOUT ME
While still working as a trial attorney in the securities field, I started writing about personal finance and investing In 2007. In 2013 I started the Doughroller Money Podcast, which has been downloaded millions of times. Today I'm the Deputy Editor of Forbes Advisor, managing a growing team of editors and writers that produce content to help readers make the most of their money.
I'm also the author of Retire Before Mom and Dad--The Simple Numbers Behind a Lifetime of Financial Freedom (amzn.to/3by10EE)
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KZbin: / @rob_berger
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DISCLAIMER: I am not a financial adviser. These videos are for educational purposes only. Investing of any kind involves risk. Your investment and other financial decisions are solely your responsibility. It is imperative that you conduct your own research and seek professional advice as necessary. I am merely sharing my opinions.
AFFILIATE DISCLOSURE: Some of the links on this channel are affiliate links, meaning at no cost to you I earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase and/or subscribe. However, I only recommend products or services that (1) I believe in and (2) would recommend to my own mom.

[@cato451]

I retired at 58 almost two years ago. Every day is more spectacular than the previous day.

[@Scortd]

I'm trying to do the same! Glad to hear it's going great.

[@JGalegria]

Why, what are you doing?

[@danklein8587]

Heck Yeah.

[@fearless6947]

Help me. Give me some advice. How do you fill up your days

[@cato451]

@@fearless6947 seriously? Well ok: long motorcycle rides on weekdays, gym three days a week, beach time, surf, long bicycle rides down the coast, play music, read books I finally have time to read (took a deep dive into the French Revolution about a year ago), amateur astronomy club, take college courses, improve my cooking skills, travel, spend quality time with friends and extended family, manage personal finances for myself and close family, volunteer at the local library and road clean up crews, oh ya and some days I just veg out and relax at home with my dog. Seriously I do whatever I want whenever I want to do it. Days and time are meaningless now. I haven’t set an alarm clock for almost three years because I don’t care what time it is.

[@Gary-sx5ox]

As a 70 year old man, I can tell you what the problem is with men retiring. Our entire life we worked hard to provide for our families. We spent the rest of our young life raising a family, being a good husband and fixing things. What most men failed to do is learn, yes I said learn, how to have fun. Fun was never a priority or a focus in our lives. Sure, there was the occasional two week vacation….doesn’t count. Fun needs to be studied and nurtured. I believe God gave us this planet so we could have fun. If you’re having trouble with retirement, you’re having trouble having fun. Take fun seriously. You won’t regret it.

[@JGalegria]

I think my generation (GenX) are very focussed on enjoyment and males are especially good at having fun while women, especially in the busy child rearing plus working years can be real party poopers and safety police. Men take more risks when they play with their kids and are more likely to be into games and sport, outdoor activities etc etc BTW I live in Australia and my father, who was from the UK, never really embraced the Aussie outdoors lifestyle

[@gabeg2434]

Thank you! Great advice.

[@r.joseph8911]

I love this!! Very VERY true!!!

[@thinkmirror8507]

Wise words

[@PETER394100]

I’m 70 and in the medical field and can’t WAIT to retire and never see the inside of a hospital again! A bunch of noise and chaos I’ll gladly leave behind.

[@johnyjsl9219]

Retiring or not retiring isn’t the point. The point is having financial freedom and doing what you like when you like. The word retirement doesn’t mean anything. The ability to live the remaining healthy years of your life with complete freedom is truly a blessing.

[@joesoccerfan4628]

Truer words..... Thanks for the reply.

[@hanwagu9967]

Financial freedom or live your life with complete freedom doesn't really mean anything either, because the reality is nearly all aren't and won't. Not really. 1987 Wall Street Gordon Gekko response to how much is enough: "rich enough not to waste time. Fifty, a hundred million dollars." That was in 1987, which is only $134m-$267m today. Mike Prince in Showtimes Billions basically says you need a $1b, which I think is correct. Sure those are fictious characters, but the basic premise is there. In order to actually be financially free and free to do what you want, you need f u money. I'd say today $1b or more is f u money.

[@filthyE]

Totally agree, great take.

[@johnyjsl9219]

@@hanwagu9967 yes $1B is definitely F-U money. Notice the FU in CAPs. I think I might have 1B, but in Indian rupees. So I would be free in India for sure !!

[@johnurban7333]

Exactly right. I know a lot of people who retired and took SS and Medicare. They are still working into their 70’s because they don’t have enough money to live on. It’s not retirement if you don’t have the financial freedom and resources. Most people don’t save for retirement and then all of a sudden they are 62 and don’t realize SS doesn’t give you much money to live on

[@Dave-zl2ky]

I am 73 and do plan to retire in 23 more years. I am a small business owner, enjoy my work and enjoy being busy.

[@daveschmarder-1950]

I am now a full time KZbin video critic.

[@turtleanton6539]

Nice🎉😮

[@bigo2032]

I read this to my wife, and she said, that’s you 😂

[@daveschmarder-1950]

@@bigo2032 Glad I could help.(?)

[@alexfonseca2063]

I hate my profession as an attorney. I would love not to have to do it anymore.

[@dawnt5587]

My husband and I are both in our 50’s. He’s been retired 8 yrs and I’ve been retired 5 yrs. Life is good. No regrets.

[@BeeBee-ku1ym]

Retired 18 months ago at 46. Absolutely love it! My husband was dying before my eyes because of work. We retired at the same time. Zero regrets.

[@Chimpangel]

How much did you save?

[@flukeylukey7559]

Do you do any work? We retired at 49, 2 and a half years ago, which was awesome, but now we work 2 to 3 days a week in work we enjoy, helps with the finances and I think we enjoy the days off more. We also do some volunteering, we enjoy achieving with others.

[@BeeBee-ku1ym]

@@Chimpangel tbh the most important question is how much do you need annually. We made the decision as we have multiple passive income streams. But it was definitely understanding how much needed until access later pensions.

[@BeeBee-ku1ym]

@@flukeylukey7559 no we don’t work. We have been trying to exercise more, relax and spend time with family. Tbh it’s so busy - we’re lucky our adult kids still want to hang out and now we have two grandkids (they are even more fun!)

[@flukeylukey7559]

@@dogegamer3288 usually the woman runs the house, and the man follows her direction, ideally you'd work together as a team, happy wife happy life 😊

[@billyoh1966]

Retired 2 years ago at 56, The plant shutdown and i don't miss rotating 12 hr shifts.

[@Barbara-jn2gw]

congrats

[@user-oh8jj8ht1s]

I never ever thought about retirement, thought I was way too young at 54. Then I was laid off the end of last year from an almost 25 year job. After the shock wore off, just for kicks I ran some numbers and was like "whoa, I can probably just retire." Saved, invested, always been very frugal, just worked. Wanted to do a good job, the financial rewards were secondary. After the lay off I realize that companies will discard you like trsh, so who cares. I may or may not get a job again, right now, I've loved every day of the last 6 months, my first real time off in 30 years.

[@auricgoldfinger8478]

I’m “working” more hours fostering dogs than I did as a surgeon. Also physically exhausting. But very, very positive emotional feedback.

[@danielbillyhasan250]

2:34

[@Xtramedium1961]

@@danielbillyhasan250 I admire your new fostering career cheers from Co Wicklow Ireland 🇮🇪

[@bwayne4656]

Coming up on my first year anniversary of retirement. Having to no longer deal with idiots everyday, crawl out of bed every morning to fix other people's problems caused by their stupidity. Having a great time

[@Autonomous1969]

I retire in January at 55. I hated working. I hated being told what to do. The biggest source of stress/depression in my life was due to work. I can't wait to get out of it all.

[@taurus8263]

I am 42 and I can't wait to retire. I hate wasting 8-10 every single day to do my job. I literally feel like I waste my life. I don't have time for my hobbies, exercises etc. At least not as much as I would like to. Hopefully I will be able to retire at 57 🤞🏻

[@Autonomous1969]

@@taurus8263 I really know how you feel. I actually suffered depression for most of my working life due to it. I love being retired. I feel free.

[@garrysinger9704]

I’m 70 and retired last month. It was a 47 year nightmare. I probably could count on one hand how many work days I enjoyed. Have no experience in working something at something I love. Very few people would keep working at their jobs if they won the lottery.

[@yestohappiness2721]

congratulations on your retirement! enjoy it to the moon and back!!! I can't get to get out too with half the time you put in!

[@johnyjsl9219]

How did you last so long ?!

[@bigjohnson7415]

Sounds like MOST of us. Seems he's probably talking about office type people who don't work out in the elements, make a lot of money, not US manual labor guys.

[@dingfeldersmurfalot4560]

Good on you for being able to stick it out that long. I can't stand work too, and it seems a lot of the world has been turning that way as companies get more and more abusive.

[@bigjohnson7415]

@@dingfeldersmurfalot4560 👍👍👍

[@Riggsnic_co]

More and more people might face a tough time in retirement. Low-paying jobs, inflation, and high rents make it hard to save. Now, middle-class Americans find it tough to own a home too, leaving them without a place to retire.

[@bob.weaver72]

The increasing prices have impacted my plan to retire at 62, work part-time, and save for the future. I'm concerned about whether those who navigated the 2008 financial crisis had an easier time than I am currently experiencing. The combination of stock market volatility and a decrease in income is causing anxiety about whether I'll have sufficient funds for retirement.

[@martingiavarini]

This is precisely why I like having a portfolio coach guide my day-to-day market decisions: with their extensive knowledge of going long and short at the same time, using risk for its asymmetrical upside and laying it off as a hedge against the inevitable downward turns, their skillset makes it nearly impossible for them to underperform. I've been utilizing a portfolio coach for more than two years, and I've made over $800,000

[@TheJackCain-84]

Mind if I ask you to recommend this particular coach you using their service?

[@martingiavarini]

'Carol Vivian Constable, a highly respected figure in her field. I suggest delving deeper into her credentials, as she possesses extensive experience and serves as a valuable resource for individuals seeking guidance in navigating the financial market.

[@TheJackCain-84]

She appears to be well-educated and well-read. I ran an online search on her name and came across her website; thank you for sharing.

[@robvoyles1985]

99% of people hate what they do. Retirement gives you the freedom to do things you can’t do because you are always working. You are the 1% that have a job they love. That is not reality for the rest of us that live in the real world. Sorry but you are not being realistic for the majority of human beings on this planet.

[@gregorycarl2004]

Agreed!

[@curiouspenguin6887]

Exactly!

[@yvonnesmith2578]

So True!

[@supersteve8305]

I retired at 56 (two years ago) and haven't regretted it. But if I had worked for an employer that treated their employees decent, I would have worked longer. Luckily, I saved very hard and was able to leave early.

[@cdsersd2d]

Yep. In my humble opinion, you're a perfect candidate to find an easy part time job. Something with very low stress, that will keep you active and give you a little more money to splurge. I could have retired a couple of years ago. I only work part time. I spend the extra money I make and it definitely adds a little spice to my life, plus keeps my mind active.

[@user-oh8jj8ht1s]

I was laid off last December after 24 at the same company at age 54. I never thought about retiring before 60 or 65, but I ran some numbers and was like "whoa, I may be able to just retire." I always just wanted to do a great job and help the company. Well, the company will discard you like garrbage. I don't want to go through that again. The main concern I have is being judged by others as "lazy" or a "bum." That's the one thing I'm worrried about, even though I know I shouldn't care.

[@arvieearp7498]

Retired at 65. Been retired 14 years now. Knowing what I have experienced and learned over the years I would have prepared for an even earlier retirement. No regrets about retiring at all!

[@David-sc2ir]

Exactly! My parents 'retired' early in life but they kept on working on their passions (antiques). I retired early at 62 and I continued working with my passion (plants). Mom and pop are still kickin' at 91 and 93. I think the secret is eating right, sleeping well, and continue to M-O-V-E!

[@Barbara-jn2gw]

🎯

[@Columbus1152]

I was financially able to retire at 64, my full retirement age was 65, and I liked what I did, so I worked until I was 66 and continued another 6 months after that as a consultant for a couple of people. I'm no millionaire, and my consulting income was great, but I was ready to let go of this phase of my life and do other things, so I told everyone my end date and stuck to it. No regrets and doing well.

[@lindsayross9853]

I think the main reason people leave early is because they were treated poorly. I do agree that people can look at doing something they enjoy even if it doesn't pay much.

[@beautifulvictory9683]

AGREED!

[@dingfeldersmurfalot4560]

Yup. Keeping working in such situations can literally kill you off early.

[@TheDoraz]

I retired at 64 for 3 years. Then one day I was recruited back into the tech industry by a forner colleague to spin up a new competitive intelligence practice at a major Silicon Valley company. I’m still working at nearly 72 years young. Still having fun traveling on vacations globally and very active. The money is great, social Interaction rewarding, I have a great team, and the company is very flexible giving a lot of freedom on work / life balance- I work from my home office in West Michigan. All good for now.

[@user-oh8jj8ht1s]

My former company laid me off in December, after 24 years (age 54). They had just taken away working from home. I didn't want to drive in there and sit in a cubicle or dumb elbow to elbow conference room meetings anyway. If I could get a work from home job I'd take it in a heartbeat. If not, I'm financiallly ok, and will simply retire early. To heck with any strangers or neighbors judging me. I don't owe them any explanation.

[@Freyabates08]

Treasury rates are rising quickly, the markets are collapsing, inflation is skyrocketing, and the Fed is imposing a significant interest rate hike-all of which will result in further losses for portfolios this quarter. How can I take advantage of the present market volatility? I'm still undecided about whether to sell my $125,000 worth of bonds and stocks.

[@kokalti]

If you are in a position like Rob Berger, you have no idea how lucky you are. I work a 70 hours a week job that is killing me. I am planning to quit this January. My mental and physical health is worth more then what they are paying me.

[@dingfeldersmurfalot4560]

I used to do exactly that. I've chosen less hours just to save my health and sanity. It still stinks on ice, but at least I'm less likely to send myself to an early grave over it.

[@JGalegria]

Why do you work 70hrs per week?

[@slimdude2011]

There is no such thing as luck. People who're financially well established are blessed.

[@user-oh8jj8ht1s]

@@slimdude2011 Or they just worked hard, were frugal, and invested wisely?

[@jason60chev]

I've been financially SCREWED thinking that I was helping someone. Now I have to work much longer to be able to retire.

[@TheBoringLameInvestor]

Semi-retirement should be the overall goal for everyone. Find a passion and tie your energy to it

[@slimdude2011]

There is no such thing as semi-retirement! Either you're retired or you're not. If a person is still working only just a few hours a week, that's not retirement.

[@ebowalker571]

​@@slimdude2011 Most likely if a person is just working a few hours a week, they probably don't need the job and they can walk away whenever they want. It's not like being tied down to a full time job that you actually need. Big difference.

[@yvonnesmith2578]

Very well said.

[@troycrone9677]

I'm 67 and semi retired and love it don't ever plan on stopping

[@grnmtnskier]

Bingo!

[@garrett7101]

I retired at 46 1.5 years ago. The only jobs I ever had were soul sucking and too many hours.. ZERO regrets!

[@cdsersd2d]

Less than 5% retire before 50. Great that you have the ability to do so. My job is pretty easy. I agree that 40 hours a week, even at my easy job is a little tight. 20-24 hours per week is ideal in my opinon. But that key note is to do something that's fairly fun and easy.

[@garrett7101]

@@cdsersd2d for sure.. I may work again for fun if I find something like that 20-24 hours fun and easy

[@user-oh8jj8ht1s]

I loved the work I did at my last two jobs (6 years as a legal assistant, followed by 24 years as a project analyst and then manager for a tech company). I enjoyed working long hours. What I have always had a problem with is the social interaction aspects. All my life I've suffered with social shyness and social anxiety. I forced myself to work through it, but it never really went away. Covid work from home was a God send. I thrived better than I had even before. Then they took it away last Spring. Then I got blindsided with a layoff out of the blue end of last year. So, for me, it was a totally unexpected and serendipitous occurrence. I ran some numbers and was like "whoa" I can probably just not have to work anymore (I'm 54). Never thought I would retire this early, but I'm loving it so far.

[@user-oh8jj8ht1s]

What do you tell nosy neighbors and relatives when they ask what you do? That's what I'm struggling with, with unexpected (but serendipitous) early retirement at 54. I've always looked young for my age, so that actuallly makes me more selfconcious about telling anyone I'm retired.

[@cdsersd2d]

@@user-oh8jj8ht1s - I wouldn't worry about what other think. That said, it probably wouldn't be a bad idea to pick a 16-24 hour per week job just for your own benefit. It will keep your mind sharp. Just find something fun and easy. Just my opinion.

[@daviddeppisch4948]

Retirement is a very recent (historically) development. If you can work keep doing it. Stay active in mind and body. Why work hard to sit on your butt when you have creativity and work that is enjoyable!

[@ebowalker571]

Retirement doesn't necessarily mean sitting on your butt. There's a whole life outside of work, enjoy it and do it while your still young enough to.

[@erickottke9673]

Thank you, people don't know this. Not that long ago there was no such thing as retirement. The last people who would remember died probably 40 years ago. You didn't retire, you just stopped doing various things as your physical ability declined, but you lived with your whole extended family in the same house. When they created social security for 65+ a minority of people lived that long at all.

[@user-oh8jj8ht1s]

Most people didn't live past 40. They didn't have much time to retire. Old people who did live that long would often sit in the hut and dispense advice to the villagers. There's no real one historical model we can look to cross culturally.

[@itguru2037]

I’m a federal employee that works from home and don’t really answer to anyone. I get paid for my technical advice and don’t have to report to anyone. I have 5 weeks vacation every year and lots of free time. I have a lifestyle friendly way and feel like I’m retired. All the freedom in the world.

[@travisadams4470]

I'll take this under advisment, but im going to give retirement a try

[@RetirementbyDesign26]

Love this response!! Noted!

[@hossainmorshed9861]

I agree 100%. Stop working means end of productive life.

[@user-oh8jj8ht1s]

Producing for whom though? Some big company that will discard you like rubbish after decades of hard loyal work? They don't care about you, I found out the hard way. Why should we care about them?

[@user-oh8jj8ht1s]

Companies and society don't care about you. I've found this out the hard way. Why should we live our lives for them? Live for yourselfe and your family. If you don't need the money and aren't doing what you love, then you don't owe some company or some vague concept of society anything.

[@fabiGBOtown]

I have always worked for myself, I don't think I could ever retire. There's always a new interest on the horizon

[@CrabbyE8]

Thank you, Rob, for this perspective. You make a difference. I’m 53 with a company full of employees, I daydream of retirement all the time and worry about dying too young like my Dad and Grandpa who never got to really enjoy a retirement. But I love what I’ve built and enjoy it. Nice to hear that’s okay too. Thanks.

[@hilarygibson3150]

I had a company with 25 employees and retired over 4 years ago just before my 55th birthday. I'd been happy with what I'd built until the last 2 years when some beaurocratic issues tipped the balance. I think you just naturally come to a point when you realise its no longer making you happy, be it 54 or 94. When you do retire - or if - my advice would be to enjoy the not having to get up and be somewhere for say 6 months before making big decisions, though have small plans to go places, see people, take up a hobby. I managed to fulfill a long held ambition to get a narrowboat (I'm in the UK), and it's been fantastic, I'm very happy I retired when I did.

[@LinhHa-sd4zf]

Hi Rob, thanks for posting this clip, now I can go on and keep on working without having a second thought. Man, I always thought that working longer I would look 👀 stupid, but now, after come across you, I am no longer afraid…I love what I do, and in turn, I got to keep my mind in shape…millions thanks to you, looking forward for more of your posts.

[@StevePappas-fl1ee]

My wife retired at 62, but I'm working until 70 in case I die before her. She can benefit from my SS. I'm going to continue to work part time after I retire to enhance my income. My work is 13 minutes from my home and I enjoy it. I work with one guy who is 82. He basically helps out training people. I work with two guys who are 74 and 77. They just work 2 days a week to get out of the house. My health is good and I am very blessed for my age. I'll be able to work as I please or not work. I think it will give me peace of mind in case the economy tanks, SS becomes insolvent or I want to buy a 1970 Chevy Chevelle SS.

[@vo1non]

On a death bed, no one ever says I wish I had worked more.

[@TheBennik]

You're already on your deathbed if you're not doing anything.

[@harriseppanen5207]

I am 67 and enjoy working. Tomorrow I am travelling to Australia from Sweden doing work and I love it.

[@PETER394100]

On the contrary! I’m 70 and will be retiring very soon after 50 years in the medical field. My retirement day will be the happiest day of my life. 😀I will “dread” it about as much as I dreaded high school graduation! The noise pollution that goes along with hospitals…….constant overhead announcements and bulletins, co-workers constant chattering and hollering to each other down hallways, nurses screeching and laughing (like they’re at some drunken bash), alarms from several different types of machines, dealing with patient’s family members, patients continuous pressing their call buttons, patients moaning and yelling!…….backstabbing supervisors and coworkers…….work hours and schedules which prevent any type of normal life. A hospital is HELL ON EARTH! Only a moron would be ‘sad’ about retirement!

[@Blublod]

If you want to work until you drop dead then be my guest. If you believe you’ll drop dead if you stop working then be my guest. If you feel that the hoard of retirement savings you have isn’t enough to fund a proper retirement then be my guest and continue to work, since after all, you enjoy it. But the great majority would disagree with you, and the fact remains you will die and you won’t take any of it with you.

[@joshua1462]

Dying on the job is never better than dying with a sense of independence and freedom. I am willing to bet that most that want to continue to work are scared of retirement and may not work as hard and under stress as some others. In my profession I see lots of "coasters" that get paid pretty well but do very little. Yes, in that case, why retire?!!!

[@dd87777]

Echoing your 7th reason, I wanted to thank you Rob for your videos! You have a kind, patient, and accessible approach to your topics. We are all blessed that you are willing to share your knowledge. I’m in my mid-30’s and have learned so much from you. I wish I had all this financial knowledge back in my teens and 20’s. Just goes to show you what kinds of extra education is needed in school and in college nowadays. I try to listen to one of your videos everyday on my commute to work. Please keep ‘em coming!

[@rfulton5709]

Sage advice. Thanks Rob. I am still working at 72 and struggling with retiring. I still enjoy what I do.

[@bigjohnson7415]

Good for you. I've been in my industry for 42 years, and I'm so over working outdoors, in the heat of Summer and the Cold of winter. I'm almost 62 and they load us down like we're in our 20's. 63 and 1/2 so I can get Cobra to bridge to Medicare, and I'm done! 18 months to go. Hope I survive.

[@dpayne1943]

@@bigjohnson7415Cobra can be very expensive. Once you “retire” your actual income should reduce enough so that you can get ACA with subsidies. You may need to retire December 31 and start January 1 at lower income so that they don’t count your previous wages. It’s worth looking into…..

[@stevenmorris2293]

Has anyone actually evert purchased cobra. ? Damn it’s too expensive

[@jacinta2707]

I totally agree, it is such a good thing to keep working, especially if you're self-employed. They are so many opportunities for older people to start their own business and create more income along with learning new skills and meeting new people. Great video, this is my first time to your channel and I love your style nice and relaxed and a nice distance from the camera. I have watched a few others today that are so intense and too close to the camera that it is uncomfortable to watch.

[@jimhenschel9879]

Rob, you do make a difference in a lot of people’s lives with your information. Keep bringing this. Great advice! This is a great video and another great example of how you’re helping people. Love it!

[@JBSanMarcos]

Bravo! This really needed to be said Rob! Life is not one-size-fits all! If working brings one great joy, why should they quit working? No one can judge whether what brings one person joy is better or worse than what brings another person joy. Too many youtube channels seem to look down on those who don't retire early. And a second bravo for not claiming to be "retired" when you are really more like semi-retired. Enjoy your channel and the honesty you bring!

[@JGalegria]

Yes semi retired will be the new retired for GenX and Y. We are more prepared to diversify our careers /vocations etc to work outside ordinary hours and work from home and work in unusual occupations that are niche or are individually taylored to our unique abilities and experience. The world is changing. The days where you worked your whole life for the company and then retired to the suburbs are fading away.

[@gerilaforte1266]

Hi Rob, I’m new to your channel and THRILLED that you’re NOT retired and bringing your expertise to a wide audience interested in the subject of finance, retirement, and living well! In just a few episodes you’ve given me new tools to build a better portfolio; slimming down the fees, thinking long term and counting the Pennines saved with complete GLEE! Thanks so much for the myriad of subjects that you bring to the channel, I’ve looked for this perfect fit for quite some time and HERE you are! Geri😊🎉😊

[@Breezeyogi]

This is true wisdom. I fully agree. I enjoy working and ha e zero intention of "retiring." I turn 67 this weekend. I co.pleyely tired of all the advice and KZbins that make "retirement" sound like something absolutely necessary and as a kind of Nirvana. How boring!

[@Breezeyogi]

I completely agree. We are the same age, and I have zero interest in ever retiring. I like working so long as it's something I like. And I always get a charge out of earning money!!

[@michaelshih8163]

I agree that it is hell to be retired. I will never retire, because I love what I do. To get paid for doing what you love to do is pure joy. I will never retire. The day I retire is the day I die.

[@cdsersd2d]

I've examined from both side. I'm semi-retired working only 24 hours per week. Some days, I want to retire completely. Some days I get depressed because I feel like working. I'm coming to the conclusion that 16-24 hours a week is perfect. Some structure and discipline in your life is good and healthy. Those that hate their jobs should find a better job that they enjoy. But there are too many drawbacks to being lazy every day.

[@doubledogblitz9644]

There is a huge difference between jobs. If your a office professional you can physically do a job much longer. I think we need more advice for people who physically can't do a job into there 60s.

[@ChrisMozley-tf8se]

Yep

[@markjoseph2801]

Psychic rewards from being connected and and having a bit of cash flow are huge! Today my PT employer bitched that I'm not working enough hours and Im 65 and have leg issues. Frustrating to need a place more than it needs you. I haven't had the guts to do the KZbin thing but maybe they just pushed me over that fear. Thank you Rob and all the good people out there!

[@miketracy9256]

That was great advice, Rob. Working is always way better than sitting around watching TV. With the 34 trillion-dollar debt, we may soon have no choice but to keep working and paying ever higher taxes.

[@olivercromwell5364]

Is sitting around watching TV all your imagination about retirement allows? I've been retired for over 10 years and I don't even own a TV. More to life than punching a clock or watching television.

[@Barbara-jn2gw]

oliver cromwell. 🎯. just be there for people, garden!, hike, read, learn new skills, start a new hobby, volunteer

[@ebowalker571]

How sad is it that some people that have enough money to retire have to continue to go to work because they cant find anything better to do. If you need a job just to occupy your time then you need to seriously evaluate and make some changes to your life. Hike, fish, golf, garden, house and car maintenance, volunteer, relax, exercise, be more available to people in your life. These are just a few things to get started.

[@Barbara-jn2gw]

this is one of the best comments ive ever seen on YT. Just be there for people, there's always something one can do to stay engaged

[@legiontheatregroup]

Amen brother, agree with your points 100%. The key - and the reason I believe some people push back against what you are saying - is having the desire and ability to find income-generating work that you truly love doing.

[@smichener1]

I love the work I do as a therapist and am self employed. I have more than enough money to retire. The one thing about working that I don't like is the obligatory nature of it. If I schedule just one appointment for today I have to keep it even if I'd rather be doing something else. I enjoy your videos. Keep em coming.

[@shaynebowen5436]

I love your channel. Your content is approachable and very clear, yet always well-researched and thoughtful. I've especially enjoyed your videos related to having a lifestyle friendly business and not retiring, even though you don't need the money. Really enjoy the channel and I thank you for all the content. You have a fresh perspective that doesn't just go along blindly with the FI crowd. Very well done!!! Thank you!

[@kw7292]

Rob’s information is some of the best I receive. Thank you for what you’ve done and look forward to the next topic. You’ve made me a stronger financial planner.

[@MultiOutdoorman]

An extremely valid proposal for many of us in our 50's and 60's who have less financial commitment, but have insufficient portfolio values to begin drawing down on them... Time is our most valuable commodity and "we don't get it back, the clock only goes in one direction"! Health- permitting i hope to always work until i am literally unable to do my job. ( self-employed construction worker in a 20 yr strong business partnership) We started taking Fridays and Mondays off for a while. We upped our daily rate for labour and found the work stretched even further as a result ! Food for thought !

[@NoLegalPlunder]

There are a million interesting things to do in life. Many of which don’t pay anything. I can’t imagine anyone wanting to be locked into a rigid existence if they don’t have to. People work so long they lose their imagination and miss out on enjoying life. Play tennis, play basketball, play board games, read, write, paint, do photography, astronomy, gardening, woodworking, learn a musical instrument or 2. This is without me even thinking.

[@jackthoma3600]

@NoLegalPlunder ...your life seems very boring...

[@NoLegalPlunder]

@@jackthoma3600 What leads you to say that?

[@El_Porcho]

Completely agree with everything you say. I've recently come to the same conclusion myself: work as long as I can. And it's for exactly the same reasons you said in your video.

[@dalladymon]

Rob, your KZbin videos do make a difference! I get a lot out of them. Please keep spreading your common sense approach to the needy!

[@paulbonham7803]

hi Rob, thank you for the excellent content. I agree with what you said. I just turned 60, and I am an insurance claims manager who really likes my job. I feel that I am making a difference to my department, and I plan to work until I am 70 possibly early 70s. I agree with staying engaged mentally which helps prevent cognitive decline.

[@kevinmcnally3811]

Rob, I love this video and your channel. Scary timing since I am retiring for the second time in two days. I turned 60 a few months ago and feel confident in my financial independence. I have been working since I was 15 1/2 yrs old, through college, and 36 years of career. I don't plan to go back to work for at least a year since I want some time to focus on myself and my family for a while. Time is the only resource you cannot earn more of. I want to pursue some hobbies and passions and maybe do some traveling with my wife. I will re-evaluate after a year or so, but probably will never go back to 60 hour work weeks. Thanks for the great information you always provide.

[@freedomworks3976]

F.I.N.R. - Financial Independence Never Retire is what I live by. I Retired twice and ya it wasn't for me either. My employer is 91 years old and he still works. I hope 🙏 to work as long as I can.

[@heidikamrath1951]

That’s so cool! What field are you in that your employer is still at it at 91??

[@user-ur3vw5tn2o]

I think it's great that some people want to keep working even if they can retire. Loving what you do and getting paid for it is definately something to be thankful for. Volunteering has many rewards and it's worth doing.

[@ShOwStOpp3rr]

Rob obviously never did any manual labor jobs,,its one thing to chill out in air conditioned building writing financial articles its another breaking your back and knee's breathing in harmful chemicals,risking severe injury every day for a paycheck,,yea no offense but im retiring ASAP you can have my spot.

[@hanwagu9967]

I don't think he said retirement work had to be the same as non-retirement work. You can turn a hobby into a job, you can be a walmart greeter even (my grandpa did), you could start your own company that employs the manual laborers while you sit back in your a/c office. The point is that retirement may not be what you expect, if you can afford retirement why not continue working doing something you enjoy, that keeps you active (at least your brain), while getting compensated in the process. Bottom line, retirement doesn't have to be the reach x years old and stop working template.

[@wakethebarbarian4577]

Very true. There is a huge variation in the stress level of jobs due to a variety of factors. Most people are not doing jobs they enjoy and would be better off retiring.

[@beachbum77762]

I think this is the only video of yours I've watched that I really agree with. Some people really enjoy being retired, but I think many or maybe most people are happiest if they are working, especially if they are working with people they like.

[@nancygaye]

My husband is retired but I’m still working. He’s 4 years older than me. On my days off, I’ve noticed he doesn’t do much which isn’t like him. Granted it isn’t mowing season which he loves. I love my days off and PTO which is a lot. But after a few days off, I’m wondering what everyone at work is doing. 😂 I feel like I still have a lot to give. I retired from working for someone in my 40s. I went to work for my husband. I was kinda bored.

[@Firefighter53]

Some careers (i.e. Firefighter/Paramedic, Police Officer) cannot physically work into old age, but I think working PT and participating in my hobbies/interests (church, scouts, bowling, fishing, etc.) will keep me going strong. It always amazes me when organizations ask for volunteers, and the seniors all report that they are too busy to volunteer, but then request visits because they are lonely & isolated.

[@joesoccerfan4628]

I've received tons of investing insight from you, Rob. Thanks so much for all the videos. This video made me think really hard about early retirement because our business is cyclical, and the most enjoyable moments (ironically, unironically?) come from when things are busy and things are getting done. Thank you again for your efforts.

[@lizabeta9347]

Thank you, this is how I think and feel. I love what I do and I plan to continue until I decide is enough. Have a blessed day!

[@dbanka471]

Really enjoyed this video. You got me when you advised you were a lawyer and don’t want to go back to the practice. I have wanted to escape the practice of law especially the litigation game for awhile now but really don’t feel like i want to quit working altogether (just not doing any legal work)…. Your discussion was quite thoughtful and is helping me think through my departure from the practice…..

[@peterburkard6586]

Thanks, Rob, good advice. One more reason would be, especially for the self-employed, to be able to continue to deduct supplies. This would apply particularly to agriculture or horticulture. I sold my products at the local farmers market for 40 years but tried to keep enough customers after retiring from that in 2018 that I could continue to keep chickens and bees and grow a few crops and sell the surpluses. So now everything that I have to buy, like feed and equipment, continues to be deductible because I declare all the income I continue to make on my taxes.

[@JGalegria]

That sounds fantastic! Where do you live?

[@peterburkard6586]

Sarasota, Florida@@JGalegria

[@James-zy5lh]

I can’t say I have ever worked a job I loved enough where I would elect to continue working vs taking retirement once possible. For the folks who’ve found that, I might say that is an untypical luxury most won’t get to experience. For myself, the goal of retiring early is less about retiring and more about having the time back to devote to genuine interests and passions - which may include doing work of some sort. By the way, I enjoyed the book Retire Before Mom and Dad so much that I have gifted it to several high school graduates over the past couple years. Thanks!

[@mjax8614]

Thanks for this.. I appreciate all the financial sites I follow but have recently felt a bit deflated by the idea that"time and health are running out" . I had a job with a young retirement age and was looking forward to spending time with the one I loved, continuing with my studies and trying a different job. Sadly I was widowed not long before retirement, but was relieved to finish my stressful job. I did the best with my retirement but it wasn't the retirement I'd planned. I took another job eventually, part-time, and have been unable to make a decision about when to retire for the second time. After watching this I realise I don't have to make myself decide just yet.

[@pedrowhite6684]

Well said! I tried early retirement and failed. Financial freedom was the easy part. Figuring out what to do after getting there is quite another matter. I am back to work, although on my own terms, because I missed my work and the overall sense of accomplishment. I quickly discovered I could only stand so much leisure time before it grew old. I think I am one of those who will continue to work, perhaps on a sliding scale, well into my older years. Thank you for your perspective and your inspiration of having retired 3 times!!

[@rob_berger]

Congrats!

[@bigjohnson7415]

More power to you. I have friends to get together with and play guitars, and have always been interested in volunteering with Habitat for Humanity, but working a physical job outside for 43 years, all my time off, especially in the last 10 years or so is Recovering from the week, and getting ready for the next. There was a time, back when I first got into my industry, that the "Old Guys" like I am now, worked in back shops, and cruised to Retirement. Those jobs all got outsourced, and we have to work the same grind as the 20-30 year old now. If our country didn't tie Healthcare to employment, I'd have no problem leaving now. And no, I don't qualify for the ACA, just have to struggle a couple of years more.

[@JGalegria]

Exactly! The pleasure paradox I believe it's called

[@utubeAgape]

I really enjoy my work and am grateful for all the fulfillment I get from it. The people are awesome, the energy I feel while working is amazing and the assignments are challenging and fun to complete and to solve. If work is no longer fun, it will be time to retire. It will be hard to find an activity that rings my bell as much as my work does. I have hobbies and I am not into travel, but I think I will always enjoy some sort of involvement at work.

[@remcat3572]

You definitely make a positive difference in people's lives. I've learned so much. Thank you!

[@glenmason1876]

The problem is not many people like their jobs enough not too retire, I retired at 58, I hated my job, best move I ever did, time is more important than money, you cannot take money with you, you could be the richest person in the grave yard in my opinion retire as soon as you can afford to, statistics will tell you, people live longer retiring earlier than those that leave it longer

[@denniskirschbaum9109]

I was completely retired for 2 and a half years. I was happy but sometimes I felt like I wanted a way to contribute something to society. Then I got an offer to do some part-time work for a nonprofit that I thought that I would enjoy. I took it. I work remotely. I can work while traveling. I mostly make my own hours. The money while not a lot is still significant and reduces the draw on savings, which feels good. The job helps me continue to feel a sense of purpose and makes me enjoy the time I am not working all the more.

[@micTie7774]

I'm at the same stage as you, but looking to find part time work, would be grateful if you could share what kind of part time work you are embarking on, just for some ideas and inspiration. Thank you in advance.

[@denniskirschbaum9109]

@@micTie7774 I am doing accounting/bookkeeping work using online accounting software. I also do some online teaching along the same lines.

[@natewinslow]

Your videos, and book (Retire before mom and dad), were, and continue to be a tremendous help for me. Thank you! This video presents an interesting perspective. I will seriously consider it

[@natelammers652]

I’m hoping to FIRE by 45-48. I wouldn’t mind going back to work at some level at say 55. There is just a lot of things I would like to do while I am younger. Hiking and traveling out of a back pack at 45 is a lot different than at 65. My current job has me gone and living out of hotels 200+ days a year. I’m also gone all summer when it’s nice on the Great Lakes. I want to enjoy things while I still can at a younger age. If I have to go back to work at some level after I’ve done what I want and traveled some, I’m fine with that.

[@Keekonuts]

I retired from social work at 55(12017),Immediately we moved closer to waterfront in Vancouver with my husband still working. At first I was dancing around…then afternoon wine appeared. I went back to work!

[@kjyochum2840]

I was retired at age 62 from Disney in 2020. Was not my plan or what I wanted. But, there I was. And I am making it work. But ready to work part time bc I am sociable and bored.

[@dianaberan-bj9fp]

oh yah, this truly resonates!

[@blvany]

This is a very refreshing take on retirement, particularly with many other channels advocating retirement as early as possible. I retired 12 years ago at age 68 (almost 69) from a very rewarding, albeit high stress, job. I might have even pushed retirement out another year or two but my elderly mother needed someone close by and that drove the timing of my retirement decision. I have never regretted retiring when I did, and I have kept life interesting by volunteering for a variety of activities in the new community I moved to. My social network has consequently expanded dramatically over that period and boredom is certainly not a problem. Some people consider the opportunity for extended domestic and international travel to be a key benefit of retirement but I have not yet been bitten by the travel bug. I am probably living a much healthier lifestyle now than when I had that high-stress job, and I certainly have more time to focus on my health. I am reasonably well off financially but agree it would certainly be nice to have a few thousand additional dollars coning in annually. Maybe I'll look for something part-time as you suggest.

[@AndrewTabbel]

Rob, you do make a difference! Your clear and concise production style is terrific, and I really appreciate the time and effort you dedicate to your videos. A sincere "thank you" to you from NJ.

[@edmhie1]

I know a guy who only retire when he died..............he lived the dream.

[@micTie7774]

My brother-in-law had always wanted to retire but kept postponing it, unfortunately he passed away suddenly at 58, he never gets to relax and enjoy things his whole life. One never knows whether one will wake up the next day....

[@SingingSingleTracker]

Great video, Rob. Yes, you are making a difference by doing these videos. So thank you. Your seven reasons were refreshing to hear as many of them correlate with my own feelings to keep working. I love the challenge it provides by keeping sharp. I love making a difference. I like the extra money. I like the social aspects. I also agree that there is no "rule" that you have to retire at age XX.

[@MrClintL]

Rob, I retired after 31 years at AT&T in February, 2010. I've been a realtor ever since. I need a reason to get up in the morning, goals to strive for and am now 66. I just couldn't handle sitting around doing nothing. Even the thought of it makes me lose my mind. It's not even about the money. As you say in your video, I stay connected with people and keep learning through volunteering and various social organizations.

[@boombustinvest]

... but how did you get into the property industry as a 'retiree'? Did you have prior experience in property?

[@toddplace8309]

Mahalo nui loa Mr. Rob ! I have absolutely no desire to stop working. We’ve never lived anywhere where commuting was an issue, large area crowds and stresses, but of course we made these choices back in our 20’s. Probably gave up some additional money, but can’t regret that. Always lived where we basically wanted to, and figured out the money part. Working keeps me socially alive and have family history into triple digits (both sides). Love the free wisdom you impart !

[@kennydowning8206]

Thanks for posting this video, great content. I've learned from your videos and keep adding new tools and perspective that help me in making decisions and moving forward in life.

[@dc512]

Love this video! Thanks for creating it and sharing.

[@JGalegria]

Absolutely. Better to work towards the lifestyle and work you love in balance and enjoy the prospect of a longer income to keep adding to your wealth. This is especially important if you didn't earn a lot when you were younger. I was a divorced mother of two and spent a lot of time on raising my children and less time on earning money. Now I'm learning how to invest what I have as I plan for an enjoyable later life.

[@JohnRomeoAlpha]

Thanks for the encouraging video Rob! I kind of dream of being that old but wise dude in the bike shop who knows how to fix both the old stuff and the new stuff while steering people toward the older stuff that lasts. Or something like that... oh also in a foreign country near a beach with lower prices. And nearby places to volunteer to make a difference.

[@gpdoyon]

No worries, Rob. The vast majority of people won’t be able to ever consider retiring early as they never prepared for it. Retiring early, or at all, is a dream for most of the family and friends I know.

[@gybx4094]

I had to retire at 63 back in 2020 due to COVID's effects on the small business that employed me. The first 2 years were fine, but now I'm bored to death. I'm trying to find meaning, value, and purpose. I'm all alone and it's terrible.

[@boombustinvest]

maybe look for paid part time work that is relatively stress free and gets you out meeting people?

[@KikiAndJeffreyPearl]

Great video! Great points and lots that we have thought of and talked about. My wife and I are technology consultants and can work from anywhere and what we do is “helping others”

[@AncoraImparoPiper]

Totally agree with you at every level. We are programmed into the concept of retiring at a certain age. It is rarely questioned. And yet, I know so many mostly professionals who keep working for as long as their health permits. They love what they do, they have reached a level of experience that positively affects their work which in turn results in positive feedback to them. I have no plans to retire. I will keep working for as long as I love what I do and I do love what I do. I am just getting better and better at my work, which feels incredibly empowering.

[@slimdude2011]

A person can retire anytime they want, if their financial gain is sufficient enough to support them throughout their retirement. The only reason why a person has to work and retire at a certain age is to be eligible to receive their Social Security benefits and Medicare from the Government.

[@ronaldcamp6757]

I worked till I was 66 and 3 months and got a huge reminder that retiring was a good idea when I had triple bypass surgery 6 months before I retired.

[@victorlaviola8132]

It may be true that some people are more prone to staying on the job and might not want to ever retire. But I retired at age 60 after working and commuting for 28 years driving 2 or more hours each way every day and do not regret it one bit I now live for me and my time not by the clock!

[@BusterDarcy]

All the things you’ve listed are exactly why you should aim to retire as early as possible - so you can avoid falling into the trap of only ever deriving meaning from being someone’s employee. Life can offer you so many more ways to experience the joys and challenges, accomplishments and connections that most will sadly only derive to a limited degree from their careers. Get out there and discover how much more there is to you and what you can take from and bring to this world, before it’s too late!

[@pls5201]

Amen and thank you. I had a wonderful public service career. Retired on time (65) with solid finances but still work part time. Ready now to discover what else might bring joy and purpose while I am healthy. Get outside before the climate crisis takes more beautiful nature. There’s more to life than sitting inside at a desk, even if it’s your chosen desk.