Even though I have reached my retirement goals financially, I continue to work. Working as a traveling NP or telemedicine allows for an abundance of flexibility and freedom. I can make my own schedule, work as little or as much as I want, and continue to contribute in my profession without feeling burned out. Working less in medicine makes you love it more.
I know from my experience doing mini-retirements/sabbaticals, that after 3 months I like to do something productive. This would be in the form of a locums assignment or telemedicine. Summer has been slow for telemedicine in comparison to winter, so I only work 24 hours per week. I also continue to have my side hustles: this blog, writing nursing/NP articles for other websites, financial coaching. Mostly because I enjoy doing multiple things, not just my main career.
In my free time, I continue to travel abroad. Spend plenty of time with family and friends. Work on investments including real estate. We just got back from Morocco getting our new condo there ready to rent out. For leisure I enjoy reading books, swimming in the pool or the beach, going for walks, and trying new things. Currently, I am hooked to the world cup games.
Being semi-retired has allowed me to live a slower paced life which is great. It’s tiring just watching others on the grind and living a fast-paced life. For example, I was able to celebrate my grandfather’s 87th birthday with him, while most of my extended family was busy working.
I brought my husband to NYC for one week this summer – it was his first time. Initially NYC was exciting because there is so much to do there and so many options. We had a great time exploring and trying new things. I love the diversity there. Eventually it became overwhelming and I looked forward to returning home to my soft life.
Has anyone else transitioned to semi-retirement?
