Hi frack - yes I also retired early on the basis that I didn't want to just keep accumulating assets until I dropped dead. I was 57 when I retired and have not regretted it, everyday is my day to do with as I please. Last year our expenses equaled income so no loss of capital at this point. My retirement also came at the worst possible time as far the the GFC aftermath is concerned so my assumption was if I can live through that then if better years are ahead I should have a bit more to splurge? So far the effects of the GFC have lasted far longer than I expected. Hopefully better years ahead soon? I will also be looking towards claiming at least part pension, I was reluctant to use this as a backup if I could fund myself, but current gov'ts attitude means either they will affect my future income, or I'm going to be selfish and claim it anyway because of their constant threats of tinkering with super.
