Stephen Kimball ⋅ Cassopolis, MI U.S. Army, Staff Sergeant ⋅ 21 years served

Thank you everyone for your input. Having been part of a small business family, I don't have the desire to put in 80 hours a week with no vacation (my parents).

I had my fulfillment job until the business lost its customer base and starting laying off employees until closure last year. My position was challenging and allowed me to grow in ways I hadn't dreamed of. The hours didn't seem to drag by.

Today, I'm in a position that does not reflect the core business of my company. To this day, I've not had a day where I had a steady workload.

With the subsequent failures from my layoff until now, I no longer know what or where I want to work. My last interview was exciting but ended with "No, thank you. We think you're too aggressive for our firm (You oversold yourself.)."

So, I, now, sit at a desk waiting for anything.

Nancy Quartey ⋅ Palo Alto, CA ⋅ 1 years experience

Hi Stephen,
Retirement is a very personal choice that depends a lot on your financial readiness and desired lifestyle. I work with many clients who are forced out of employment ("downsized") before they're ready but face challenges finding a new position. Business ownership and franchising can be a good alternative for many, allowing them to be their own boss and to choose the lifestyle that's right for them. If you'd like to talk more about it, please do not hesitate to reach out. I'd be happy to schedule a time to discuss it.
Nancy

Suzanna Molino ⋅ Sparks Glencoe, MD writer, editor, author ⋅ 35 years experience

NEVER ... not until you are satisfied with your work! Don't settle.

And if you are already thinking about retirement while in a dead end job or a job that doesn't fuel your passion, then perhaps think about how to take it early?

"Any form of complacency is the kiss of death for any professional." ~ Joan Rivers

Best to you!
Suzanna

Stephen Kimball ⋅ Cassopolis, MI U.S. Army, Staff Sergeant ⋅ 21 years served

I've tried to remain in the career field I was in while serving. Can't say life has been good. I'm in a job that has no visible upward mobility.
Was told "You're a Veteran. Everyone will want to hire you!" Well, after two college degrees and certifications, here I am; sitting around waiting for something to do.
Management says "I can't make work for you to do. "

Gerald Mannikarote ⋅ Houston, TX dMann Training Technologies ⋅ 20 years experience

Hi Stephen,
Tough question.
I guess that depends on what your goals are. I just saw a feature on the news about a barber that's 90+ years old, he started when he was in his teens and has no plans to stop.
So, I believe it depends on your goals and what you want to do moving forward. These days, it's much easier to make a career change in later years than ever before. Consider your goals and all your options as you consider acceptance of your current situation as well as retirement.
Warm regards,
Jerry