[earlyretire123]

I'm 30 years old and have been effectively retired for 1 year. Before this I was an software engineer / manager for startups and bluechips. I left due to stress issues at work, depression and needing to become a carer for a short while but now don't have a good reason or monetary need to return to work again so I guess I am retired?

I had been so defined by work for my entire life that I didn't really know who I was outside of the crunch and the office. I don't miss the office or work but do miss the people. I am not from a wealthy background, the majority of my family and friends find it very strange and it can be a bit awquard in conversation. When I feel ashamed I browse job postings / linkedin, but am coming to realise that it was sad how much self worth I gained from having other people think I was successful or smart.

I've learnt that staying busy is paramont to my health, I've started a small bussiness to keep me busy doing one of my passions, grow a lot of my own food and walk a lot. Sometimes I miss the massive engineering challenges working with a team, I could see myself taking a job for that alone. My life doesn't have a lot of meaning right now, sometimes I dream that some great purpose or mission will be thrust on me. To be honest I feel a bit adrift!

[sjwalter]

I'm in a similar situation but Ive got kids and a wife. They add a tonne of purpose and meaning. My side business is a small farm. Great side effect of that is all the jobs on the farm are kid friendly. Spending all my days with my little family making world class food can not be beat. You may want to consider adding some little ones to your life. :)