Overheard at Work

[CommonCents]

The company or boss should give a present as an appreciation for the employees hard work, not coworkers??

Yes, but you would be surprised at the number of coworkers who give presents to the retiree here. I think that is silly.

I work for the state. I don't even have standard things like an office kitchen. The state can't give retirement presents or it might be written up in the herald (and the public would object), plus there's no money for it.

[Jags4186]

I was in the car with a new hire for a bit the other day. He is at the director level so he makes probably 20-40k a year more than me.

We started to talk briefly about finances and I made the comment that I try to save 1/2 of what I make. His eyes bugged out of his head and said that he and his wife (who also works) live paycheck to paycheck.  I asked what he spends so much money on and he said his rent is 5k a month for a 3 bedroom apartment overlooking the city.  He has no kids.

[MooseOutFront]

he said his rent is 5k a month for a 3 bedroom apartment overlooking the city.

Ha!  That'll do it.

[lisahi]

I've been enjoying this thread for a while and thought I'd pipe in.  So many come to mind, but a classic one happened a few years ago.  I was an associate at a large law firm and a senior associate, making in the mid- to high- 200 thousands was complaining about the dismal bonuses.  Hers was probably in the range of $40-50k that year.  She didn't know how she was going to make all of her payments and decided to take out a loan to cover her living expenses.  Mind you, she was married to another working lawyer with no children.  I'm not sure where all of that cash was going- - but I almost had a heart attack when she was complaining about bonuses.  Perspective, people!

(emphasis above added)

I agree with you that people in certain high-paying industries and with big bonuses lose perspective.  For the past 12 years, I have worked in one of those industries and every year at bonus time, I calculate how long someone making minimum wage would have to work to earn my bonus.  It's sobering and helps me remain grateful, even in lean(er) bonus years.

Of course, this is my last week before moving to the non-profit world, so goodbye bonuses!  It was fun while it lasted.

Just the idea of getting a 5-figure bonus makes me weak in the knees. I work for the Federal government as an attorney. At year-end, we do get "bonuses" but they're in the 3-figures, which is still better than a kick in the head. My aunt found out that we got a bonus and started complaining because that was her tax dollars, so why should a Federal employee get a bonus? God forbid we actually get rewarded individually for doing good work for the American people. I wanted to slap her. As an attorney, I'm not unionized, get zero overtime for doing work beyond 40 hours per week (which always happens), and am located in a city that was supposed to get locality pay last year because we make far less than the private sector, but didn't because the Office of Personnel Management failed to do the paperwork. So I'll take my $700, thank you.

[CommonCents]

I've been enjoying this thread for a while and thought I'd pipe in.  So many come to mind, but a classic one happened a few years ago.  I was an associate at a large law firm and a senior associate, making in the mid- to high- 200 thousands was complaining about the dismal bonuses.  Hers was probably in the range of $40-50k that year.  She didn't know how she was going to make all of her payments and decided to take out a loan to cover her living expenses.  Mind you, she was married to another working lawyer with no children.  I'm not sure where all of that cash was going- - but I almost had a heart attack when she was complaining about bonuses.  Perspective, people!

(emphasis above added)

I agree with you that people in certain high-paying industries and with big bonuses lose perspective.  For the past 12 years, I have worked in one of those industries and every year at bonus time, I calculate how long someone making minimum wage would have to work to earn my bonus.  It's sobering and helps me remain grateful, even in lean(er) bonus years.

Of course, this is my last week before moving to the non-profit world, so goodbye bonuses!  It was fun while it lasted.

Just the idea of getting a 5-figure bonus makes me weak in the knees. I work for the Federal government as an attorney. At year-end, we do get "bonuses" but they're in the 3-figures, which is still better than a kick in the head.

I work for a state government.  Here the words "bonus" aren't even whispered.  Ahh, I remember the day of being annoyed I exceeded expectations for the law firm, and was told it was one of the best reviews of my 100+ yearmates, but bonuses were capped at half of the prior years (and w/o the additional $10k they got that year for exceeding hours).  My bonus was still $17k that year, but darned if I didn't find it frustrating it wasn't $45k...

[MooseOutFront]

I've been enjoying this thread for a while and thought I'd pipe in.  So many come to mind, but a classic one happened a few years ago.  I was an associate at a large law firm and a senior associate, making in the mid- to high- 200 thousands was complaining about the dismal bonuses.  Hers was probably in the range of $40-50k that year.  She didn't know how she was going to make all of her payments and decided to take out a loan to cover her living expenses.  Mind you, she was married to another working lawyer with no children.  I'm not sure where all of that cash was going- - but I almost had a heart attack when she was complaining about bonuses.  Perspective, people!

(emphasis above added)

I agree with you that people in certain high-paying industries and with big bonuses lose perspective.  For the past 12 years, I have worked in one of those industries and every year at bonus time, I calculate how long someone making minimum wage would have to work to earn my bonus.  It's sobering and helps me remain grateful, even in lean(er) bonus years.

Of course, this is my last week before moving to the non-profit world, so goodbye bonuses!  It was fun while it lasted.

Just the idea of getting a 5-figure bonus makes me weak in the knees. I work for the Federal government as an attorney. At year-end, we do get "bonuses" but they're in the 3-figures, which is still better than a kick in the head.

I work for a state government.  Here the words "bonus" aren't even whispered.  Ahh, I remember the day of being annoyed I exceeded expectations for the law firm, and was told it was one of the best reviews of my 100+ yearmates, but bonuses were capped at half of the prior years (and w/o the additional $10k they got that year for exceeding hours).  My bonus was still $17k that year, but darned if I didn't find it frustrating it wasn't $45k...

It's such a strange dichotomy that government work.  My wife is an attorney for the state and she gets scrimped on the most random things that I take for granted in the private sector.  On one hand there's an unbelievable amount of waste in government, but in almost any individual employment situation, it's tight budgets and no bonuses and no pay raises, etc.  She actually had her pay decreased by $10k a few years back before getting it increased by $15k after that.  Just depends on what's in the budget for her little sub-corner of the .gov world.  Meanwhile there's almost no turnover at her job which is weird because it looks like a pretty shitty work environment from my perspective.

[CommonCents]

I've been enjoying this thread for a while and thought I'd pipe in.  So many come to mind, but a classic one happened a few years ago.  I was an associate at a large law firm and a senior associate, making in the mid- to high- 200 thousands was complaining about the dismal bonuses.  Hers was probably in the range of $40-50k that year.  She didn't know how she was going to make all of her payments and decided to take out a loan to cover her living expenses.  Mind you, she was married to another working lawyer with no children.  I'm not sure where all of that cash was going- - but I almost had a heart attack when she was complaining about bonuses.  Perspective, people!

(emphasis above added)

I agree with you that people in certain high-paying industries and with big bonuses lose perspective.  For the past 12 years, I have worked in one of those industries and every year at bonus time, I calculate how long someone making minimum wage would have to work to earn my bonus.  It's sobering and helps me remain grateful, even in lean(er) bonus years.

Of course, this is my last week before moving to the non-profit world, so goodbye bonuses!  It was fun while it lasted.

Just the idea of getting a 5-figure bonus makes me weak in the knees. I work for the Federal government as an attorney. At year-end, we do get "bonuses" but they're in the 3-figures, which is still better than a kick in the head.

I work for a state government.  Here the words "bonus" aren't even whispered.  Ahh, I remember the day of being annoyed I exceeded expectations for the law firm, and was told it was one of the best reviews of my 100+ yearmates, but bonuses were capped at half of the prior years (and w/o the additional $10k they got that year for exceeding hours).  My bonus was still $17k that year, but darned if I didn't find it frustrating it wasn't $45k...

It's such a strange dichotomy that government work.  My wife is an attorney for the state and she gets scrimped on the most random things that I take for granted in the private sector.  On one hand there's an unbelievable amount of waste in government, but in almost any individual employment situation, it's tight budgets and no bonuses and no pay raises, etc.  She actually had her pay decreased by $10k a few years back before getting it increased by $15k after that.  Just depends on what's in the budget for her little sub-corner of the .gov world.  Meanwhile there's almost no turnover at her job which is weird because it looks like a pretty shitty work environment from my perspective.

Yeah.  I consider a kitchen actually a non-necessity - but a lack of a SINK is one in my eyes and makes being mustachian and bringing in food from home much harder w/o the chance to wash out plates/tupperware etc.  (Not keen at all on using the bathroom sink - and they have grates to prevent food from going down them.)  I, along with many coworkers, bring in my own supplies like pens in to work.  I have a computer with a non-supported system because it's so old now (yet we're required to save every email we ever get...on antiquated full servers).  We have a mice issue in the building, but no exterminators ever come by.  And yet - my dept, health care related, has a billion dollar budget.  That's right, B.  Now of course, right of the bat, know that it's actually really say $500 million, because we get federal financial participation with matching dollars), but still, sounds large and like we're wasting money...

[Numbers Man]

I was in the car with a new hire for a bit the other day. He is at the director level so he makes probably 20-40k a year more than me.

We started to talk briefly about finances and I made the comment that I try to save 1/2 of what I make. His eyes bugged out of his head and said that he and his wife (who also works) live paycheck to paycheck.  I asked what he spends so much money on and he said his rent is 5k a month for a 3 bedroom apartment overlooking the city.  He has no kids.

I guess that puts an interesting spin on the term "location, location, location".

[Jags4186]

Well today just adds to the cake. I found out he has a storage container.

So to recap. 3 bedroom apartment. 1 married couple. No children. Storage unit.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[NeverWasACornflakeGirl]

Monday is my last day (hooray!) and I am officially retiring.  Yesterday one of my coworkers told me, "You'll be back in a month begging for your job back because you'll be so bored."  My (tightly restrained) response:  "I don't think so."

Really surprised by the jealousy, nastiness, gloom, and general pessimism my retirement has stirred up at my work place.  One person took me out to lunch.  Everyone else seems to be pretending it's not happening.  Makes me even happier to be leaving.

Congratulations! At the very least, the experience shows you (if you didn't already know) who the good ones were.

Just had to come back and post a follow-up.  This morning I was doing a celebratory dance with my nine-year-old to the song "Let Me Clear My Throat" and I heard and felt my hip snap followed by terrible pain and I thought, "Son of a bitch, I broke a hip on my first day of retirement!"  The thought was so funny I was yelling "Ow, Ow, that really hurts" and at
 the same time laughing hysterically and decided just to keep dancing. 

[Hedge_87]

Broken hip already lol!! I've heardone of people falling apart after retirement but damn that was quick!

[jordanread]

Just had to come back and post a follow-up.  This morning I was doing a celebratory dance with my nine-year-old to the song "Let Me Clear My Throat" and I heard and felt my hip snap followed by terrible pain and I thought, "Son of a bitch, I broke a hip on my first day of retirement!"  The thought was so funny I was yelling "Ow, Ow, that really hurts" and at
 the same time laughing hysterically and decided just to keep dancing.

I damn near spit my coffee all over my monitor because of that mental image. Hope it's just a "freedom pang" and not something that would really suck.

p.s. I just made up freedom pang, but I decided it means that touch of soreness from using your retirement muscles instead of your career muscles. :-) You'll get used to it.

[CommonCents]

A coworker sent me a link to an article about a thrift store in my town having a closeout sale and asked if I had ever been to the store.  Told her no, but I've been meaning to check it out, so I think we're both going to go tomorrow.  Other than her coming to my party the other weekend, we haven't done anything outside of work together, but I'd say this is a good start!  Oh, and she bikes to work most days (and I don't).  :)  Yep, I've got some MMM folks here.

[Quark]

My company just built a new building in a nearby suburb and we are moving there in December, which means for an entire year I get to listen to my coworkers moan about their moving hassles. Many of them have to move to new homes because their current commute is already super long. I live in a major Texas city which will make my point to many of you.

Meanwhile I moved into a new one-bedroom apartment last month and it took me 4 whole carloads of moving stuff all by myself. I consider this to be ridiculous lifestyle inflation because 3 years ago I moved across the country and everything I owned fit into a single carload. I didn't have any furniture or pets back then. If I had a house I might actually consider renting a Uhaul!

Granted, I am single, no kids and no house. But I still shout, "Sukkas!" in my head whenever they moan and groan.

[viper155]

It would make a lot more sense for everyone to be paid once a month. You know, just like virtually every other bill we pay once a month.

4 years ago I went to a monthly pay from a bi weekly. It took a little little used to but I prefer it.

[Hedge_87]

It would make a lot more sense for everyone to be paid once a month. You know, just like virtually every other bill we pay once a month.

4 years ago I went to a monthly pay from a bi weekly. It took a little little used to but I prefer it.

Holy shit!!!! We are paid monthly where I work! Almost everybody hates it and it's a constant hot button issue every contract negation. I don't understand it! If you can't make it through the month with $ x what makes you think one week at $1/4x will be any better. I prefer it because the wife is paid on the same day so we sit down that day and plan the month and forget about it until next month.  Makes for a nice tidy meeting (we don't "budget" just go over where to send what)

[AlanStache]

This is OT, but I need to vent:

Coworker 1: Okay, I'm not South American like you.
Coworker 2: I'm Mexican!
Coworker 1: ....
Coworker 3: Mexico isn't in South America.
Coworker 1: So what? I don't study geometry.

*brain explodes*

T-Rex, I assume they are in the military as well?  If so please reassure me that there are safe guards between them and all nuclear weapons.  Also does CW1 drive an F150 or a Mustang?

[GuitarStv]

This is OT, but I need to vent:

Coworker 1: Okay, I'm not South American like you.
Coworker 2: I'm Mexican!
Coworker 1: ....
Coworker 3: Mexico isn't in South America.
Coworker 1: So what? I don't study geometry.

*brain explodes*

T-Rex, I assume they are in the military as well?  If so please reassure me that there are safe guards between them and all nuclear weapons.  Also does CW1 drive an F150 or a Mustang?

Maybe this explains why the US invaded Iraq after 9/11 . . .

[Jags4186]

It would make a lot more sense for everyone to be paid once a month. You know, just like virtually every other bill we pay once a month.

4 years ago I went to a monthly pay from a bi weekly. It took a little little used to but I prefer it.

Holy shit!!!! We are paid monthly where I work! Almost everybody hates it and it's a constant hot button issue every contract negation. I don't understand it! If you can't make it through the month with $ x what makes you think one week at $1/4x will be any better. I prefer it because the wife is paid on the same day so we sit down that day and plan the month and forget about it until next month.  Makes for a nice tidy meeting (we don't "budget" just go over where to send what)

Perhaps they prefer their 401k contributions going in 52 times a year vs 12 times a year therefore giving a "smoother" DCA buy in?

[greenmimama]

This is OT, but I need to vent:

Coworker 1: Okay, I'm not South American like you.
Coworker 2: I'm Mexican!
Coworker 1: ....
Coworker 3: Mexico isn't in South America.
Coworker 1: So what? I don't study geometry.

*brain explodes*

Oh wow, I would be laughing so hard, and talk to that person a lot more to pas on other gems :)

[EricL]

This is OT, but I need to vent:

Coworker 1: Okay, I'm not South American like you.
Coworker 2: I'm Mexican!
Coworker 1: ....
Coworker 3: Mexico isn't in South America.
Coworker 1: So what? I don't study geometry.

*brain explodes*

So there I am, perusing a flea market in Nuremburg, Germany in 1987.  An older American woman steps up next to me, picks up a misc. item and wonders what it is.  I answer her and the dialogue goes like this:
Woman: Oh, you speak English!
Me: Yes.  I'm American.  Where are you from?
Woman: Ohio.  Where are you from?
Me: California.
Woman: Where's that?

At that point I just walked away.  And just a reminder, Ronald Reagan, our former governor, was President.

[Quark]

I just want to rant about my fat coworker who smokes and scarfs down all the free m&m's but always has a diet coke in hand. AAAANNNDD his name is Chip. But I will refrain.

[JoyBlogette]

No, dumbass, but I have a $100k+/year job and I do math for a living.  And so do you.  Why are you not retired yet?

Ha ha ha... this will keep me laughing all day. 

[Daniel]

So there I am, perusing a flea market in Nuremburg, Germany in 1987.  An older American woman steps up next to me, picks up a misc. item and wonders what it is.  I answer her and the dialogue goes like this:
Woman: Oh, you speak English!
Me: Yes.  I'm American.  Where are you from?
Woman: Ohio.  Where are you from?
Me: California.
Woman: Where's that?

At that point I just walked away.  And just a reminder, Ronald Reagan, our former governor, was President.

The Ohioian (Ohio-ite?) just sounds jealous to me.

Also, I have a story from work! I was in a training with some CWs yesterday and they found out I don't own a house. So one of them advises: figure out your budget and then look at where you can afford to live. This is a good idea, but if I looked at where I could live on my budget right now, it would mean leaving the area (So Cal). But then he goes on to tell us that his house (which he lives in by himself and bought with his girlfriend, who doesn't live there) has 4 bedrooms, only one of which is furnished; he owns a boat, which currently needs repairs; and 4 cars!!! So I guess 1 of 4 on good decisions.

Later he was saying one of his friends just bought a $600k house in Mission Viejo (City in Orange County), and I asked him if it was a fixer upper (as a joke/complaint about ridiculous housing prices), he said yes, and our trainer, who was from Minnesota, just about lost it.

[infogoon]

CW1: Those F150 pickups are super-cheap if you get them at the end of the year when the dealer is trying to clean out the old inventory. I almost bought one for my wife last time, because it was only about $30k.

CW2: But wouldn't you end up spending a lot on gas with such a huge vehicle instead of the little sedan she has?

CW1: Nah, she doesn't drive all that much anyway.

[MilwaukeeStubble]

No, dumbass, but I have a $100k+/year job and I do math for a living.  And so do you.  Why are you not retired yet?

Ha ha ha... this will keep me laughing all day.

>Quote from: galaxie on November 14, 2012, 01:05:14 PM

Aand I just realized how long I've been reading this thread. Damn...

[viper155]

I read this entire thread. It is sad and funny at the same time. I retired 4 years ago at the age of 51. I have a sweet pension, an almost paid off house, 2 college educations paid for in cash and zero debt. I have a great wife and two awesome kids. I have news for all of you with aspirations of early retirement. It is not nearly as easy and fun as you think. When the weather is cold or rainy I am bored shitless. I know, I know..."I wont be bored, I'm different" BULLSHIT! You will be bored.
    You will not do all this budget traveling. You wont fix everything in your house. Life still gets in the way....Do yourselves a huge favor. Find work that matters and focus on that. It will be all rosy fo a while until you realize just how important work is to your well being. And guess what? The only one happy that I am home every day is my dog!
    I wish you all luck.

[Eric]

I read this entire thread. It is sad and funny at the same time. I retired 4 years ago at the age of 51. I have a sweet pension, an almost paid off house, 2 college educations paid for in cash and zero debt. I have a great wife and two awesome kids. I have news for all of you with aspirations of early retirement. It is not nearly as easy and fun as you think. When the weather is cold or rainy I am bored shitless. I know, I know..."I wont be bored, I'm different" BULLSHIT! You will be bored.
    You will not do all this budget traveling. You wont fix everything in your house. Life still gets in the way....Do yourselves a huge favor. Find work that matters and focus on that. It will be all rosy fo a while until you realize just how important work is to your well being. And guess what? The only one happy that I am home every day is my dog!
    I wish you all luck.

Ah, yes.  Everyone's retirement will be exactly like mine.  At least you're in the right forum section!

ETA -- I'm sorry you're bored, but don't project your boredom on everyone else.  What instrument(s) do you play?  What languages do you speak?  What gourmet food do you cook?  What tricks can your dog do?  Where do you volunteer?

[jordanread]

I read this entire thread. It is sad and funny at the same time. I retired 4 years ago at the age of 51. I have a sweet pension, an almost paid off house, 2 college educations paid for in cash and zero debt. I have a great wife and two awesome kids. I have news for all of you with aspirations of early retirement. It is not nearly as easy and fun as you think. When the weather is cold or rainy I am bored shitless. I know, I know..."I wont be bored, I'm different" BULLSHIT! You will be bored.
    You will not do all this budget traveling. You wont fix everything in your house. Life still gets in the way....Do yourselves a huge favor. Find work that matters and focus on that. It will be all rosy fo a while until you realize just how important work is to your well being. And guess what? The only one happy that I am home every day is my dog!
    I wish you all luck.

What kind of life gets in the way when you are stuck at home when it's cold and rainy?

Ah, yes.  Everyone's retirement will be exactly like mine.  At least you're in the right forum section!

ETA -- I'm sorry you're bored, but don't project your boredom on everyone else.  What instrument(s) do you play?  What languages do you speak?  What gourmet food do you cook?  What tricks can your dog do?  Where do you volunteer?

+1
If viper is here looking for ideas on how to not be bored, he came to the right place. :-)

[Russ]

What instrument(s) do you play?  What languages do you speak?  What gourmet food do you cook?  What tricks can your dog do?  Where do you volunteer?

+1

sure, be bored, but don't say there's nothing you can do about it

[CommonCents]

What instrument(s) do you play?  What languages do you speak?  What gourmet food do you cook?  What tricks can your dog do?  Where do you volunteer?

+1

sure, be bored, but don't say there's nothing you can do about it

+2
We'll even let you go back to work (part-time?) without calling the retirement police, if that's what you want.

[dude]

Just the idea of getting a 5-figure bonus makes me weak in the knees. I work for the Federal government as an attorney. At year-end, we do get "bonuses" but they're in the 3-figures, which is still better than a kick in the head. My aunt found out that we got a bonus and started complaining because that was her tax dollars, so why should a Federal employee get a bonus? God forbid we actually get rewarded individually for doing good work for the American people. I wanted to slap her. As an attorney, I'm not unionized, get zero overtime for doing work beyond 40 hours per week (which always happens), and am located in a city that was supposed to get locality pay last year because we make far less than the private sector, but didn't because the Office of Personnel Management failed to do the paperwork. So I'll take my $700, thank you.

not to mention that 3-year pay freeze!

[The_Dude]

I read this entire thread. It is sad and funny at the same time. I retired 4 years ago at the age of 51. I have a sweet pension, an almost paid off house, 2 college educations paid for in cash and zero debt. I have a great wife and two awesome kids. I have news for all of you with aspirations of early retirement. It is not nearly as easy and fun as you think. When the weather is cold or rainy I am bored shitless. I know, I know..."I wont be bored, I'm different" BULLSHIT! You will be bored.
    You will not do all this budget traveling. You wont fix everything in your house. Life still gets in the way....Do yourselves a huge favor. Find work that matters and focus on that. It will be all rosy fo a while until you realize just how important work is to your well being. And guess what? The only one happy that I am home every day is my dog!
    I wish you all luck.

Why have you waited 4 years to take your own advice?  55 is not too old to find some work that matters to you and avoid your horribly boring retirement for a few more years.

[odput]

If you're bored then you're boring
The agony in the irony is killing me.

This is the age of the internet

The internet contains everything in the whole wide world ever

Surely you can find something interesting to read/learn on the cold and shitty days

[warfreak2]

BULLSHIT! You will be bored.

I already have enough interests and hobbies to take up 24 hours a day/7 days a week, and I'm definitely not retired. If you really don't have enough things that you like doing, you need to try more things.

[viper155]

I read this entire thread. It is sad and funny at the same time. I retired 4 years ago at the age of 51. I have a sweet pension, an almost paid off house, 2 college educations paid for in cash and zero debt. I have a great wife and two awesome kids. I have news for all of you with aspirations of early retirement. It is not nearly as easy and fun as you think. When the weather is cold or rainy I am bored shitless. I know, I know..."I wont be bored, I'm different" BULLSHIT! You will be bored.
    You will not do all this budget traveling. You wont fix everything in your house. Life still gets in the way....Do yourselves a huge favor. Find work that matters and focus on that. It will be all rosy fo a while until you realize just how important work is to your well being. And guess what? The only one happy that I am home every day is my dog!
    I wish you all luck.

Ah, yes.  Everyone's retirement will be exactly like mine.  At least you're in the right forum section!

ETA -- I'm sorry you're bored, but don't project your boredom on everyone else.  What instrument(s) do you play?  What languages do you speak?  What gourmet food do you cook?  What tricks can your dog do?  Where do you volunteer?

 To answer your question...Guitar. English.Accomplished cook.My dog is old and dying.  Volunteer Fire Dept. - And I wasn't trying to project negativity. Just reality. Retirement is not all fun. It is a learned behavior. I'm well traveled, rode a bicycle from Newfoundland to Palm Beach and was an adrenaline junkie fireman in NYC for over 20 years. I kayak fish in the ocean, at night and can probably, at my middle age, still kick some ass. And I'm telling you retirement is not all its cracked up to be and people should be prepared for that.

[dragoncar]

I read this entire thread. It is sad and funny at the same time. I retired 4 years ago at the age of 51. I have a sweet pension, an almost paid off house, 2 college educations paid for in cash and zero debt. I have a great wife and two awesome kids. I have news for all of you with aspirations of early retirement. It is not nearly as easy and fun as you think. When the weather is cold or rainy I am bored shitless. I know, I know..."I wont be bored, I'm different" BULLSHIT! You will be bored.
    You will not do all this budget traveling. You wont fix everything in your house. Life still gets in the way....Do yourselves a huge favor. Find work that matters and focus on that. It will be all rosy fo a while until you realize just how important work is to your well being. And guess what? The only one happy that I am home every day is my dog!
    I wish you all luck.

Ah, yes.  Everyone's retirement will be exactly like mine.  At least you're in the right forum section!

ETA -- I'm sorry you're bored, but don't project your boredom on everyone else.  What instrument(s) do you play?  What languages do you speak?  What gourmet food do you cook?  What tricks can your dog do?  Where do you volunteer?

 To answer your question...Guitar. English.Accomplished cook.My dog is old and dying.  Volunteer Fire Dept. - And I wasn't trying to project negativity. Just reality. Retirement is not all fun. It is a learned behavior. I'm well traveled, rode a bicycle from Newfoundland to Palm Beach and was an adrenaline junkie fireman in NYC for over 20 years. I kayak fish in the ocean, at night and can probably, at my middle age, still kick some ass. And I'm telling you retirement is not all its cracked up to be and people should be prepared for that.

But what is the solution?  Getting a job?

[EricL]

I read this entire thread. It is sad and funny at the same time. I retired 4 years ago at the age of 51. I have a sweet pension, an almost paid off house, 2 college educations paid for in cash and zero debt. I have a great wife and two awesome kids. I have news for all of you with aspirations of early retirement. It is not nearly as easy and fun as you think. When the weather is cold or rainy I am bored shitless. I know, I know..."I wont be bored, I'm different" BULLSHIT! You will be bored.
    You will not do all this budget traveling. You wont fix everything in your house. Life still gets in the way....Do yourselves a huge favor. Find work that matters and focus on that. It will be all rosy fo a while until you realize just how important work is to your well being. And guess what? The only one happy that I am home every day is my dog!
    I wish you all luck.

Reminds me of a Zen Story:
A young monk approaches his Zen master.

Monk: Master, I'm bored.
Master:  Then GO!  DO the IMPOSSIBLE!

So the monk went away bored.

[viper155]

If you're bored then you're boring
The agony in the irony is killing me.

This is the age of the internet

The internet contains everything in the whole wide world ever

Im glad I struck a chord here...From reading MMM, which, I really ascribe to and enjoy, I get the impression that a lot of people here think that retirement is all Hawaiian shirts and sunny skies. Now, you guys that are aspiring to this but are not there yet, great! Just be forewarned that it is not as great as you think it is. It was at first but it wears off. You will see. Enjoy!

Surely you can find something interesting to read/learn on the cold and shitty days

[Waternstone]

About coworkers and cars...three quick scenarios;

1. Our admin assistant (makes about $60k/yr and drives a three series bmw while paying $1500/month in rent) and I were on a plane for a biz trip. The stewardess tells her to put her uber-designer bag on the floor under the seat in front of her to prepare for landing. The admin says to me, "this PURSE cost $4,000... UGH!!!!" To which without missing a beat knowing that I make several times her salary, "OMG! Your handbag is worth more than my CAR!!! (2000 avalon, 153k miles, goin strong) She was horrified at my *impoverished* vehicle and I was just laughing and laughing.

2. My junior coworker used to drive a very posh Mustang that was only a few years old but was always breaking down. She told me she bought a new car and was proud cuz she bought it used (late model VW Taureg). She said she got a great deal and I was like, cool! How much was it? Over $25K + extended warranty for $4k BECAUSE IT ALREADY BROKE DOWN FOUR TIMES in the three months she's owned it. OMG, omg, omg!! And this lovely lady who I adore owes almost $150K in student loans for 2 masters degrees... Btw, I really, respect grad school stuff for those who enjoy school (and paying for higher learning), but I get a lot of mileage (bad pun intended) in my prof with a simple bachelors degree. This is someone who is saving to buy a house in Redondo Beach, CA = OMG expensive + >40 miles from work!...

3. Another junior coworker bought a new car: five series BMW fully loaded = >$80k. OMG!!! whaaaaat?!?! And, wait for it... financed the thing!!!  She saw me blanch and reach for the wall cuz I was basically gobsmacked to which she said, "yeh, I have a really long commute so I wanted to enjoy the drive.... "

They all think I'm insane. I just don't understand what they are thinking. Granted, I'm older than all three by a few years (I'm 40) but wth, people!!!?? I live 5 miles from the office, drive a 14 yr old car that feels uber posh to me, and dress modestly meaning, I buy nice work blouses, slacks and sweaters (thank God I rarely need to wear a suit) on clearance at the local outlet then proceed to wear them out before I replace them whilst they shop their hearts out on haute couture (which, btw, I really enjoy seeing. They all look fab! But, shopping for clothes makes me shudder. I successfully avoid the activity the high, high majority of the time.  Can't even tell you the last time I walked into a mall because they fill me with dread... They are like massive 'thing' mausoleums built in such a way that it feels like you just can't get out....)

Anyway, wooohooo to freedom from pricey cars, student loans and *price couture*!!!

[Latwell]

About coworkers and cars...three quick scenarios;

3. Another junior coworker bought a new car: five series BMW fully loaded = >$80k. OMG!!! whaaaaat?!?! And, wait for it... financed the thing!!!  She saw me blanch and reach for the wall cuz I was basically gobsmacked to which she said, "yeh, I have a really long commute so I wanted to enjoy the drive.... "

My manager and coworker #1 are trying to convince coworker #2 to buy a new car. They are basically harassing this guy to buy a new car. It's always the same stupid conversation too.

Manager & CW1, "you've had that car forever. you should get a new car"
Manager & cw1 proceed to offer suggestions of ridiculous car models this very simple plain-jane type of guy should buy. The guy drives a Corolla (probably spelt wrong). Manager, "you should get a Cadillac."
After a little bit I chime in asking CW2 if he's had any problems with his car. He says no. I ask if he hates the car. He says no. I point out that I've never heard him ever complain about the car and I've never heard him say that the car has needed any repairs in the 3 years of working with him. I point out that he now has a mortgage and ask if he really wants a car payment again. He says no. At this point I usually turn to CW1 & manager and tell them to stop planting a bad seed in CW2's ear.

[warfreak2]

My manager and coworker #1 are trying to convince coworker #2 to buy a new car. They are basically harassing this guy to buy a new car. It's always the same stupid conversation too.

Misery loves company.

[limeandpepper]

I read this entire thread. It is sad and funny at the same time. I retired 4 years ago at the age of 51. I have a sweet pension, an almost paid off house, 2 college educations paid for in cash and zero debt. I have a great wife and two awesome kids. I have news for all of you with aspirations of early retirement. It is not nearly as easy and fun as you think. When the weather is cold or rainy I am bored shitless. I know, I know..."I wont be bored, I'm different" BULLSHIT! You will be bored.
    You will not do all this budget traveling. You wont fix everything in your house. Life still gets in the way....Do yourselves a huge favor. Find work that matters and focus on that. It will be all rosy fo a while until you realize just how important work is to your well being. And guess what? The only one happy that I am home every day is my dog!
    I wish you all luck.

Funny that. My dad has been retired for about a decade, and he's not bored. He's busy and he's enjoying life. And since he's retired longer than you have, I could say that his experience trumps yours. Or, just, maybe, you know... acknowledge that people are different? :)

[jordanread]

My manager and coworker #1 are trying to convince coworker #2 to buy a new car. They are basically harassing this guy to buy a new car. It's always the same stupid conversation too.

Misery loves company.

I hadn't thought of it like that, but I had a friend who constantly leased cars (since he updates every couple of years anyway *eye roll*), and tried to convince me to do the same. I remember asking him about how awesome it would be to not have a car payment. His response was so fatalistic, it freaked me out a bit:

I'm always going to have a car payment, so might as well get a new car out of it every couple of years.

Personally, I remember how it felt the first time I paid off a car I bought. Holy crap! It was like winning the lottery!! Now I know even more, so my fun little build thread gives me joy.

I read this entire thread. It is sad and funny at the same time. I retired 4 years ago at the age of 51. I have a sweet pension, an almost paid off house, 2 college educations paid for in cash and zero debt. I have a great wife and two awesome kids. I have news for all of you with aspirations of early retirement. It is not nearly as easy and fun as you think. When the weather is cold or rainy I am bored shitless. I know, I know..."I wont be bored, I'm different" BULLSHIT! You will be bored.
    You will not do all this budget traveling. You wont fix everything in your house. Life still gets in the way....Do yourselves a huge favor. Find work that matters and focus on that. It will be all rosy fo a while until you realize just how important work is to your well being. And guess what? The only one happy that I am home every day is my dog!
    I wish you all luck.

Funny that. My dad has been retired for about a decade, and he's not bored. He's busy and he's enjoying life. And since he's retired longer than you have, I could say that his experience trumps yours. Or, just, maybe, you know... acknowledge that people are different? :)

I'm going to go ahead and just assume that it was a warning based on his own experience. Viper mentioned that they weren't trying to be negative, just giving a head's up. That would be an interesting journey to follow though.

Hey Viper: What would you say to starting a thread in either the journal's section or the Ask a Mustachian section, documenting your efforts to get rid of that annoying boredom you are experiencing. I'd definitely be interested in that!!

[Insanity]

About coworkers and cars...three quick scenarios;

3. Another junior coworker bought a new car: five series BMW fully loaded = >$80k. OMG!!! whaaaaat?!?! And, wait for it... financed the thing!!!  She saw me blanch and reach for the wall cuz I was basically gobsmacked to which she said, "yeh, I have a really long commute so I wanted to enjoy the drive.... "

My manager and coworker #1 are trying to convince coworker #2 to buy a new car. They are basically harassing this guy to buy a new car. It's always the same stupid conversation too.

Manager & CW1, "you've had that car forever. you should get a new car"
Manager & cw1 proceed to offer suggestions of ridiculous car models this very simple plain-jane type of guy should buy. The guy drives a Corolla (probably spelt wrong). Manager, "you should get a Cadillac."
After a little bit I chime in asking CW2 if he's had any problems with his car. He says no. I ask if he hates the car. He says no. I point out that I've never heard him ever complain about the car and I've never heard him say that the car has needed any repairs in the 3 years of working with him. I point out that he now has a mortgage and ask if he really wants a car payment again. He says no. At this point I usually turn to CW1 & manager and tell them to stop planting a bad seed in CW2's ear.

Should have followed up with:

Since he has other bills and wants no car payment, are you guys paying for it?

[Nords]

Military retirement ceremonies...

One more mandatory formation...

During the 1990s drawdown it got so bad that my spouse spent several months attending an average of three retirement ceremonies per week.  At the end of that period the command shifted to a monthly group ceremony, and that had 5-15 honorees for a couple of years.

A couple weeks before I left on terminal leave, my department invited me to a BBQ at our Damage Control/Firefighting Complex.  First we ran our staff instructors (me included) through the flooding & firefighting trainers one more time for proficiency (complex casualty scenarios, no holds barred).  It was an exhausting team-building workout but it was (hopefully) the last time I'll have to handle those problems.  Then we fired up the gas grills and had ourselves a real pau hana party.  That was a much better way to say farewell than a formal ceremony.   

I must have written over two dozen letters of recommendation during my last few months there.  That was the real retirement benefit-- getting the best troops selected and promoted for the programs that they wanted.

The retirement of a senior officer (including the change of command ceremony) can tie up the efforts of most of a command for at least a week.  I've never understood that application of taxpayer dollars. 

[cdub]

About coworkers and cars...three quick scenarios;

1. Our admin assistant (makes about $60k/yr and drives a three series bmw while paying $1500/month in rent) and I were on a plane for a biz trip. The stewardess tells her to put her uber-designer bag on the floor under the seat in front of her to prepare for landing. The admin says to me, "this PURSE cost $4,000... UGH!!!!" To which without missing a beat knowing that I make several times her salary, "OMG! Your handbag is worth more than my CAR!!! (2000 avalon, 153k miles, goin strong) She was horrified at my *impoverished* vehicle and I was just laughing and laughing.

2. My junior coworker used to drive a very posh Mustang that was only a few years old but was always breaking down. She told me she bought a new car and was proud cuz she bought it used (late model VW Taureg). She said she got a great deal and I was like, cool! How much was it? Over $25K + extended warranty for $4k BECAUSE IT ALREADY BROKE DOWN FOUR TIMES in the three months she's owned it. OMG, omg, omg!! And this lovely lady who I adore owes almost $150K in student loans for 2 masters degrees... Btw, I really, respect grad school stuff for those who enjoy school (and paying for higher learning), but I get a lot of mileage (bad pun intended) in my prof with a simple bachelors degree. This is someone who is saving to buy a house in Redondo Beach, CA = OMG expensive + >40 miles from work!...

3. Another junior coworker bought a new car: five series BMW fully loaded = >$80k. OMG!!! whaaaaat?!?! And, wait for it... financed the thing!!!  She saw me blanch and reach for the wall cuz I was basically gobsmacked to which she said, "yeh, I have a really long commute so I wanted to enjoy the drive.... "

They all think I'm insane. I just don't understand what they are thinking. Granted, I'm older than all three by a few years (I'm 40) but wth, people!!!?? I live 5 miles from the office, drive a 14 yr old car that feels uber posh to me, and dress modestly meaning, I buy nice work blouses, slacks and sweaters (thank God I rarely need to wear a suit) on clearance at the local outlet then proceed to wear them out before I replace them whilst they shop their hearts out on haute couture (which, btw, I really enjoy seeing. They all look fab! But, shopping for clothes makes me shudder. I successfully avoid the activity the high, high majority of the time.  Can't even tell you the last time I walked into a mall because they fill me with dread... They are like massive 'thing' mausoleums built in such a way that it feels like you just can't get out....)

Anyway, wooohooo to freedom from pricey cars, student loans and *price couture*!!!

Sounds like you live in the Los Angeles area too. We're surrounded by "materialists" here aren't we?

Are you in "the business" like me or do you have a "normal" job? :) I just realized I used a lot of quotes in this post. Ah well...

Alot of my coworkers eat out at expensive places for lunch all the time - people who I know I make more money than as they are my support staff... one person I work with just spent 4 months travelling Europe and buying wine and whiskey to be shipped home. When asked if they had a retirement plan... the answer was "no". Yes we make a lot of money... but we're not going to make it forever.

Geesh - in this biz you definitely need a retirement plan. I think I've got another 10 years or so before I get pushed out by the young blood. Maybe. Or at least I'm telling myself that so I get all my ducks in a row and fast so I don't have to worry about it.

[Waternstone]

Hey, cdub...

Yeh, I live in highland park next to occidental college and work in old town Pasadena. I have a normal job...not in the " industry" ... But I went to UCLA and know lots of folks who do...

I'll tell you, they say youth is just a state of mind but sometimes in this town, it seems like a state of financial ignorance people cling to lest they have to face reality and get a grip...  I'm hoping to get FIREd in the next couple years or so and relax for a bit while I stretch my creative muscles for a spell...

Nice to hear from a fellow Angeleno, btw. I rarely meet any mustachians round here. Hoping for a visit from Mmm himself to get folks rallied for a social event...

About coworkers and cars...three quick scenarios;

Sounds like you live in the Los Angeles area too. We're surrounded by "materialists" here aren't we?

[cdub]

Hey, cdub...

Yeh, I live in highland park next to occidental college and work in old town Pasadena. I have a normal job...not in the " industry" ... But I went to UCLA and know lots of folks who do...

I'll tell you, they say youth is just a state of mind but sometimes in this town, it seems like a state of financial ignorance people cling to lest they have to face reality and get a grip...  I'm hoping to get FIREd in the next couple years or so and relax for a bit while I stretch my creative muscles for a spell...

Nice to hear from a fellow Angeleno, btw. I rarely meet any mustachians round here. Hoping for a visit from Mmm himself to get folks rallied for a social event...

About coworkers and cars...three quick scenarios;

Sounds like you live in the Los Angeles area too. We're surrounded by "materialists" here aren't we?

Yes my goal is to pay off the mortgage in 7 years and then just save like ballbusters in taxable accounts. I'm already maxing out the 401k.

Due to situations beyond my control which hopefully are temporary I'm only saving 25-30% of my income now. We should be able to get it back up to 50% I hope in the fall. We'll see.

I still eat out sometimes at work due to stress - but I'm trying to get better.

I'm still typing this on a 4 year old Chromebook. New ones only cost $199 but I can't bring myself to buy one even though that is so cheap in computer terms. Yes this is old and slow compared to the new ones but it is good enough.

I just can't justify it. This coming from a guy in his pre-mustachian days bought a $4,000 Macbook Pro in 2007. :) I won't even buy a $199 computer. ha.

[Waternstone]

Way to flex those mustachian muscles, cdub... I hear u about unexpected expenses. My dog who I adopted ten yrs ago when I bought this house got hit by a car in Feb. She just had surgery number two yesterday.

Are u planning to stay here when u retire? I was born and raised here and I love the city and have extended family here but I think I want to try to relocate somewhere greener, with a little more rain/weather and, hopefully, an active mustachian community. Not to mention, houses are soooooo expensive here. My job is crazy stressful and I don't know that I want to work the extra yrs it would require to pay this house off when the equity could buy what I need outright elsewhere...