Decidedly

How do you know if you’ve made the right decision? And – when do you know?

I’ve been talking about my eventual retirement for a long time. Not because I was miserable in my career, but because I think three decades, or just about 1/2 of my entire life, doing the same thing professionally is enough.

It’s time to do something different.

Until recently, my projected end date was June, 2026. I figured that made the most sense. You know, complete a full year and go out at what feels like a natural end, despite the fact that I actually reach my 30 year milestone 8 months earlier in October of 2025. But there are so many factors to consider when choosing when to actually call it a game.

• If I leave in October, I potentially leave my retirement incentives/payouts, per our contract, on the table.
• If I stay through June, I give up 6 months of living my life, completely on my own terms
• If I stay until June, I earn 6 more months of salary that I can use to pay down my mortgage, the only debt I carry.
• If I leave at the end of the first semester, I can quietly slip out on a dark January day without fanfare.

These considerations have been repeating in my head for about 18 months. I had finally decided that June 2026 was my best option. Finish the year. After a lifetime spent living by the academic calendar, it made sense.

But, something changed for me this week. I began daydreaming about dog sitting in Europe. In the morning, I found myself wanting to stay in bed a little longer to enjoy the view of the sky. I revisited the numbers I had run previously, confident that I could pick up a job if I needed some pocket money.

I began picturing myself retiring in January and it didn’t feel scary. It felt exciting.

Now that I’ve made the decision, I feel like I’m smiling more.

I don’t imagine becoming idle when I retire. Instead, I’ll be filling my time with activities (and adventures!) which I couldn’t make happen in my teacher life. Spontaneous trips to random places. A seasonal or part time side hustle, here or there, wherever there may be. I’m interested in finding lengthy pet sitting opportunities in areas I find appealing. Maybe I’ll become more diligent with my yoga practice or begin trekking. I’ll read and write.

The first morning I woke after having decided the time is right to retire, this perfect little leaf was stuck on my car door handle. It was there the entire day.

Clearly, it was a confirming sign.

It’s time to leave. 😊