Hands up all those who never really enjoyed working!

I have had some good jobs and enjoyed them all, but running up to my retirement I was glad to leave my last job working for a firm of occupational psychologists. I joined a firm of three - me, my boss and his secretary - saw it build from the three of us to twenty four, by which time I had been appointed practice manager, and then go back down to six, including the two partners. There were some very stressful and challenging times, and we had a lot of fun as well, but eventually enough was enough. I still pop in and see the two partners from time to time. We all sit round and talk about fishing!

I liked working, being part of a team, making a difference.

I also enjoyed the years at home with the DC.

I was sorry when I had to retire early.

My last job was receptionist at a mental health charity. Loved it. I met such interesting people. Even had my own clients who couldn't manage timed appointments. But just as I was coming up to retirement things started to change as bureaucracy took over. Similar to what happened to you Lucky. In the end I was happy to leave.

On the other hand I think my DH is like you*Goose*. He worked because he had to. Now he doesn't have to, so he doesn't!

I enjoyed all my jobs, but I was always very anxious about work. I could never sleep on a Sunday, and I was always on edge, even though I was pretty competent.

I've worked part time in casual work for a while but I feel I need a "real" job again. I've got ten years before officially retiring! I've been teaching piano for a bit on a self-employed basis which I love. Maybe I'll try to make a decent go of that.

I think, in general, work is more stressful now, less secure and less well-paid.

Office work was the only job I didn't enjoy. I loved my time as a mental health nurse, and was sad to retire. I'd done several things before nursing beginning with my Saturday job in Woolworths. I sold loose sweets, and loved every Saturday.

I loved my job as a medical social worker - I really felt that I was making a difference and doing something worthwhile.

And then so many things went wrong, but basically we were turned from respected professionals whose experience and opinions counted in doing the best for the patients to financial gatekeepers for the LA. Who cares if the patient and their family are made to suffer as long as we make sure the department spends bugger all?

Bitter... moi?

I loved my last job, lovely colleagues, OK management, great working conditions, but I wasn't heartbroken at leaving as I was ready. My previous jobs were totally hard work, but I've met and maintained, some good friends, so not all bad. I do love being at home and having the freedom
to organise my own time, but I wouldn't have missed my working life. It's good to have had a mix.