I took an early retirement at the age of 59. I’ll try to answer your questions on order:
1-no
2-no
3-no- I put my money into bonds before the stock market crashed.
4-no-it’s better than I thought. I’m teaching guitar and bass and loving it. I wish I had time to waste!
5-much better – no more stress, i.e. corporate BS – I’m doing what I love to do now – although I had a great job in research I feel a lot more useful now.
6-If you take a lump sum don’t blow it on toys – If you are under a lot of stress get out now before it kills you: I made my wife retire way early because to stress – have a hobby or two that you enjoy to do – stay physically active

If you can afford it and you have the opportunity do it. You will not regret it!


I'm no longer allowed to go caroling at the psych hospital.
I guess Do You Hear What I Hear was a bad song choice!

64 bit Win 10 Pro, the latest BiaB/RB, Roland Octa-Capture audio interface, a ton of software/hardware