Forgetting That I Created This Freedom … Do Others Have Moments Like These?
Last Thursday, during a late-morning pickleball game, I felt a wave of misery. I’m retired, years into it, but I found myself on the court with a difficult partner and wondered if I was wasting my time. The activity gave me cardio and the company was generally good, but at 53 I found myself re-examining my situation: most of my peers are stuck at desks, grinding away at work. I should feel grateful for the freedom retirement affords, yet I found myself fixated on my partner’s attitude rather than my own liberty.
Since then, I’ve reflected and adjusted my mindset—somewhat. I’m curious whether others have had similar realizations and moments of guilt, even when the life you built is fundamentally positive. Why does the mind drift toward the negative, even when circumstances are favorable?
For those who have pursued early retirement (FIRE) or achieved a similar level of independence, is this a common experience? Do you ever feel a twinge of guilt for feeling unsettled, even when your daily life is comfortable and free? I’d love to hear how others navigate these thoughts and maintain perspective in their ongoing journeys.
