But I’ve also never understood why anyone works longer than they need to if they have the means to live comfortably in the first place.
In the USA one of the best reasons to keep working is the healthcare gap before Medicare kicks in.
Also, when you’re approaching “early retirement age” you’re likely at the peak of your earning potential. Working 1 more year could be equal to 3x or 4x a single year of retirement spending.
Another thing happens when you’re still working but you don’t absolutely need to. You recognize working is optional and you can take the risk and push back on work you don’t like. It gives you the power to take the risk. If you get fired, you’re already set up to continue life without working. This makes the work itself usually much more pleasant/tolerant so there’s a lower desire to quit early.
In the USA one of the best reasons to keep working is the healthcare gap before Medicare kicks in.
Also, when you’re approaching “early retirement age” you’re likely at the peak of your earning potential. Working 1 more year could be equal to 3x or 4x a single year of retirement spending.
Another thing happens when you’re still working but you don’t absolutely need to. You recognize working is optional and you can take the risk and push back on work you don’t like. It gives you the power to take the risk. If you get fired, you’re already set up to continue life without working. This makes the work itself usually much more pleasant/tolerant so there’s a lower desire to quit early.