7 Perspectives on 111 Days Early Retirement
A personal look back - and ahead
I have officially been in “early retirement” for 111 days. Two words that sound more like stagnation – but it was anything but. I started walking, doubting, creating, reflecting.
This text is not a success story. It is an invitation to reflect. I share seven perspectives on this time – very personal, and yet perhaps also a useful mirror for you.
Whether you are in a transitional phase yourself, accompanying people who are facing a change or simply looking for new inspiration,
I hope you find something here that touches, encourages or inspires you.
1. Perspective "How Are You?"
The typical question from neighbors or acquaintances. The usual answer? “Just fine!” or “It’s going well!”
On the surface, I’m surprised at what I’ve already achieved: Website updated, first offer launched, first newsletter sent out.
But when I look deeper, I start to feel uneasy:
- Am I using my time properly?
- Where are the customers?
- Will my own business really take off?
Fortunately, the exchange with coaching peers and in the Moral Ambition Circle helps me to see more clearly. Moreover, clearer about what I really want to work towards in the near future.
The change from the “silver cage” to freedom is both liberating and challenging. New questions arise. However, I am not questioning the decision itself. More on that in a moment.
2. Perspective "What If?"
What would have happened if I had stayed – if I hadn’t signed the contract?
One check of my former inbox is enough: my wonderful team was shattered by a reorg. I wouldn’t have known where I’d end up.
And the corporate theater? Not a single day that I miss it.
3. Perspective "The Gift"
I am grateful. For a fair offer from my employer – not everyone gets a silver handshake like that.
Grateful that I live in a democracy. I am happy to defend this privilege.
And: every new day really is a new gift. I am free to decide what I fill my time with. Just today, in a research interview, I heard the beautiful word “vogelfrei (free like a bird)” as a metaphor for this new phase of life.
I feed my curiosity. Ignite a desire for the future. Thank you to the Ministry of Curiosity and Future Spirit for the new ambassador role.
4. Perspective "January 1st"
New Year’s night. Fireworks with the neighbors. Toasting the new year.
My motto for 2025: I am a buoyant ancestor.
I want more spontaneity. Explore cities. Experience live events. Interactions that honor my values.
“Nurturing connections” – my theme for this year – has developed well.
I have realized: I’d rather make a difference for 100 people than collect 10,000 followers. Because: who will hold my hand on my final bed? I want to be there for the people who are really important to me.
What I have neglected: my connection with nature – and with my camera.
5. Perspective "14 juillet"
How will I look back on the second 111 days in 111 days?
I’ve brushed up on my Spanish. Gathered new impressions on the Mediterranean.
The time with my wife was particularly valuable – because: When a partner’s life changes radically, the relationship dynamic changes too. This is particularly important because we are making an important decision about the future home of our lives.
My learning curve is steep: through co-organizing the lernOS Convention 2025 in Nuremberg, through my work in the Zettelkasten learning circle.
In the Moral Ambition Circle, I am gaining clarity about my “calling”.
I am delighted to have three new coaching clients. And about the collaboration with inspiring coaches who have made the launch of two new offers possible.
6. Perspective "Affection - Aversion"
In the coaching masterclass on saboteurs, I broke patterns and gained practical insights.
What attracts me?
Getting into action. Designing newsletters. Visualizing content. Learning together. Inspiring encounters. Defending freedom and democracy. Conduct research into learning journeys. Exploring housing projects. Snow-covered mountains. Vacation planning.
What repels me?
Anti-democracy. Backward-looking politics. Rich people without attitude. Piles of paper in standing files.
7. Perspective"The Bird"
And what does the bird see from above?
A carpet is being created. The shape is not yet clear. New colors are added. Many threads are still open. Some parts are half-finished. And as a designer, I am weaving with others, opening up, experimenting.
Bottom Line 111 Days Early Retirement
I am very much looking forward to the journey of the next 111 days, and I take the following self-affirming belief with me:
“A wiser part of me deeply knows that I should follow whatever truly resonates with me!”
How have you been in your first 111 days of the year?
Which other perspective would interest you?
Feel free to share your suggestion!
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