What age did you retire?

If you have left paid employment but do voluntary work are you retired?

I didn`t actually retire as such, I took voluntary redundancy at the age of 49, and, although money was tight, I didn`t bother looking for another job. Did a couple of short term jobs, cleaner and lollipop lady, but nothing for very long. I don`t regret not working any longer.

I retired at 59 as I was diagnosed with a progressive lung complaint and wanted to enjoy myself while I was still active enough to do so.
I'm still quite active 9 years later, so it hasn't progressed as fast as I thought it would. I was lucky as OH earned a good salary so could afford to retire early. I don't regret it at all.

Have had the good fortune to always have a career that I enjoyed. When I didn't enjoy a particular job, found another that was enjoyable; either within the company or another.

Knew that, like it or not, would have tom retire at 65. Ticked off the last two years, but not wishing the time away, just counting and preparing.
Nearly 18 years on, still keeping occupied, but not so frantically as before Covid. Try to help others if possible.
Blessed with good health and a loving partner, and family.

Advice? Avoid navel gazing and do something, (Hobbies, helping others, volunteering, U3A ) if only in a leisurely way, to keep mentally and physically active.

I was 58, OH had retired at 55.
He booked a surprise holiday. Some people in the resort were there to buy property. Just to be nosey we went along with one couple we had made friends with. We liked the house and bought it.
Came back home, put the property up for sale and 3 months later we were living in another country.
We had mortgage free property in the uk that was rented out and a boat that was rented.

I taught on an Access Course which I just loved. Mature students know they want to study so the job is much easier than trying to convince reluctant teens! I retired at 59 and still miss some of my wonderful students. I enjoy my retirement having more time to pursue so many things I never had time for before.