I am surprised how interesting this question has been in my short 1 year retirement.
On the day I retired at 54, I told my large AA group, today was my last day of work. Many people knew and everybody close to me. Probably because a few years ago at age 50, I resigned and my boss talked me into staying part time, which I did for a few years. So, I have already had discussions with those around me.
Overtime, I see someone whom I haven't seen in a while, and they ask me, "Have you retired yet?". I feel very proud to answer yeah about a year ago, which seems like a long time. I feel proud because it was a hard decision emotionally, more so than financially.
One of the best feeling I have experienced in retirement is when I hear some of my friends complain about having to still work. Mostly because these are the exact people who always pointed out how cheap I was, when I try to save a buck here or there.
And I have also noticed over time, when I don't know someone well and they say what do you do, I sometimes say I am retired, if I want to get to know them more, or sometimes, I just say, I'm not working right now. I don't fee like I am lying, because sometimes I have thought about going back to work. Usually, I just sit and wait for that compulsion to pass, but I mostly blame it on covid lockdowns and the lack of interaction and travel restrictions. I look forward to experiencing retirement more again soon.
The other reason that I have been very happy to be retired and healthy is seeing quite a few folks who work longer and seem to have physical challenges very early in retirement. So, I am grateful for each day of retired health.
Overall, most people are happy for me, when I say I am retired, but frankly, I don't really think they care that much because they are thinking about themselves.
I really appreciate this community and hearing all the discussion. Thanks.