I went with education for the sake of learning, hunting, travel, own my home outright in Silicon Valley, personal machine shop, collection of vintage Italian motor bikes(>10), dogs, garden & rental properties.
Retired 2 years ago @ 55 years of age.
Spoil my nieces & nephews rotten.
I learned German and spent a month in Germany this year, with a lady friend who paid for her own way.
Last year I built all the cabinets in my new kitchen...learned how to cut & polish granite counter tops.
I have over 500 books on my shelves and am taking classes to learn metal casting.
I did not have to ask permission to do any of that.
Just say’n.
You are the exception. I retired at 52, 20+ years ago, wood and machine shops, commercial property in the bay area, home on the river. I attribute it to my wife, who helped me do it all. In my experience,the truly successful men were all family men
” with a lady friend who paid for her own way.”
What was in it for her?
That seems sort of sad that after all that you went home alone.
I haven’t had to ask permission since I was a child. I’ve been married for 28 plus years and have 4 kids.
What’s that saying? It’s easier to ask for forgiveness than permission?