Filling the Void in Early Retirement with Part-Time Work
Early retirement might sound like a dream come true, but it can leave a significant void in your life that needs filling if you want to remain happy and productive. After I left Corporate America in 2012, I spent a lot of time reflecting on this through various blog posts. It’s tough to switch from a high-intensity job to a slower pace of life without some intermediate steps.
I first wrestled with my decision to retire early right after my 35th birthday, shortly after I had wrapped up my finance career. The urge to travel and the need to complete my book gave me some purpose, but doubts lingered. However, as I ventured into Europe for a 2.5-week research trip and continued managing my online business, I began to appreciate my newfound freedom.
The past year has been a blast with extensive travel during the summer and winter, working and enjoying life along the way. There’s a thrill in balancing work with exploring new cultures.
One Thing Missing From The Accomplishment Belt
Despite various successes, I’ve always felt a pang of missing out while living in San Francisco—seeing numerous tech startups flourish and wishing I had been part of that scene. The financial sector didn’t offer the explosive growth in equity that tech did, especially evident during the 2008 financial crisis when regulatory changes and market challenges meant that financial stocks lagged behind their tech counterparts.
Startup Life in San Francisco
I’ve always been drawn to the dynamic environment of startups, with their casual dress codes and passionate teams. Although I’m running my own successful online businesses, part of me yearns to contribute directly to a startup culture, to be part of a team that’s all-in on a product.
The Solution to Filling the Void in Early Retirement
With companies cautious about full-time hiring, the rise of freelance and part-time work offers a solution. I’ve fantasized about having a lighter schedule for years—imagine having every Friday off plus a generous vacation policy. If that were my schedule, I might never have retired!
The Benefits of Working Part-Time in Retirement
Part-time work can offer flexibility like long weekends, and options for telecommuting or shorter workdays, which can be especially appealing for parents. It provides a chance to stay involved in the workforce without the full-time commitment, allowing you to attend company events and stay connected socially, which combats the loneliness that sometimes accompanies retirement.
However, part-time work isn’t without its downsides. You often miss out on benefits like health insurance or stock options that full-time employees enjoy. You’re also less likely to receive promotions or command the same respect as full-time colleagues.
The Decision to Work Part-Time
After much deliberation about whether to engage in part-time work, I find myself leaning towards blending my finance background with my interest in tech startups. Even as I travel and enjoy a relatively relaxed lifestyle, the idea of not being fully retired is appealing—part-time work can continue to provide both income and personal fulfillment.
Resources for Filling the Void
Starting your own business or negotiating a good severance package are viable paths to take when transitioning out of full-time work. For those in early retirement, maintaining some form of professional engagement can provide structure and prevent the sense of drift that sometimes comes with a sudden lack of daily responsibilities.
Time Is Valuable
Although I don’t need the additional income, the proper use of my time is paramount. Consulting a few clients a month is an excellent use of my time, allowing me to help improve others’ financial well-being while boosting my savings and happiness.
Ultimately, working part-time isn’t just about filling time—it’s about making meaningful choices that align with personal and financial goals, even as those goals evolve over time. Whether it leads to a permanent position or simply adds a new chapter to my career, I’m open to the opportunities part-time work brings into my life.
