[npsimons]

This is why I "soft retired" early. People haven't said it to my face, but I get the definite impression many think I'm crazy for "abandoning" work. I'm through hiking the PCT this year, something I never thought I would do until much older.

I'm not really a brave guy, I fear change, but you got to take your chances while you're still alive.

[kqr]

What does soft retire mean? I've always liked the idea of interspersing retirement years with active work, and increasing the relative frequency of retirement years as I get older.

However, I understand the job market might not always be appreciative of gaps in employment.

[cfn]

If you are a contractor it is not that bad. You can also use that time to do a small side project and put it in your CV.