1 Year Retirement Update: The Camry Isn’t Departing Yet
Summary: After stepping away from a hedge-fund–style role about a year ago, retirement has largely been positive with ongoing financial growth and new personal rhythms.
Financial snapshot
– Investments: I held my portfolio through the end of 2022, which proved advantageous as it marked a strong year for the markets. In exchange for a modest advisory role—answering questions and offering a few hours of guidance here and there—the portfolio grew to just under $9 million late 2022, and surpassed that mark in the following year thanks to market gains.
– Spending: Family of four spending in 2019 hovered around $125k. Core living expenses today run around $175k, driven by one child’s private school and a touch of lifestyle inflation. Over the past year, vacation spending totaled about $50k. Charitable giving accounts for roughly 5% of annual expenditures.
– Lifestyle choices: A personal milestone has been pursuing “sushi whenever I want.” What began as a rare treat evolved into a weekly indulgence. Home renovations—master bathroom, kitchen updates, and attic space finishing—are moving forward, reflecting ongoing investments in our living environment. Even without active income, our assets provide confidence that this spending remains within prudent bounds.
Vehicles
– The 1999 Camry remains, but the primary car now is a Porsche Boxster S, which has become a source of daily enjoyment. The joy of open-top driving continues to bring daily smiles.
Mental health
– I have a long history with mental health challenges, including periods of moderate depression. After exploring therapy and medications, I pursued ketamine treatment earlier this year. While not a cure, it has yielded meaningful improvements.
Family and relationships
– The most meaningful payoff of retirement has been the strengthened partnership with my spouse. After two decades, we navigated some tough conversations that refreshed our relationship and brought us to a healthier place, including in our intimate life.
– The more challenging side of retirement has been coping with uncontrollable losses. Over the past year, both my mother and mother-in-law battled cancer and passed away. Hospice care was difficult, but I’m grateful to have been present with them during their final chapters.
Time, hobbies, and daily routine
– I’ve prioritized physical activity through swimming and biking, and I’ve found more time for reading and catching up on films I’ve wanted to see.
– Our family life has become more collaborative, with us sharing responsibilities more evenly as my spouse continues to manage daily routines, and I’ve become more involved with our children’s lives.
Final thoughts
– Retirement has brought substantial positive changes in finances and personal well-being, along with some unavoidable emotional losses. For anyone considering a similar path, the experience underscores the importance of adaptable spending, continuous health and relationship work, and staying engaged with interests and family.
Take care, and best wishes to everyone navigating their own journeys.
