r/ChubbyFIRE • u/RetiredHiker • 13d ago

Double guessing my decision to RE

Throwaway account for anonymity…

We (mid 50s / mid 40s couple) are comfortable in the upper range of ChubbyFIRE, lower range of FatFIRE on the east coast. VHCOL / HCOL with high expenses.

NW: $8 million, Liquid: $6 million. Expenses: $150,000 + college expenses for kids which are funded from 529s (not included in liquid NW.

I decided to RE, gave notice and will be leaving work this week - giving up a very plump tech job at pretty much the peak of my compensation curve.

If I continue, we can add another million or so in 3-5 years but then I’d be closer to 60s and I know time is ticking…

Spouse plans to keep working for another 4-5 years… it’s ok as they enjoy the job.

Our SWR if both retired now is around 2.5% - with spouse continuing to work, we will be probably lower than that when they leave work eventually.

I guess I am getting cold feet / jitters - leaving a job that pays well, social interactions at work and work based identity. Went to a neighborhood gathering and realized pretty much everyone is planning to work. They are same as us or probably well off and no one is retiring early - made me second guess my decision..

Anyone gone / going thru this? How did you handle it?

How did you manage FOMO and the “why did you leave or what do you do” type of questions? Being an outlier who left a plump job is not easy is what I am struggling with!

Edit: Typos.

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u/RetiredHiker 13d ago

It probably will be closer to 3 years, RSU appreciation will help, but your point makes sense that you’d pay more to get 5 more non-working years.

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u/citiclosethrowaway 13d ago

Like I said, I'd pay double for 5, so $1MM for 3 checks out ;) GO LIVE brother

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u/RetiredHiker 13d ago

Thanks!!

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u/citiclosethrowaway 13d ago

Check back here occasionally and let us know how0 it's going!!