I took my pension from the company at 45. We had 25 and out and I had 27.5 years actual service. I made a list of things I always wanted to do, I worked on a golf course, alaways wanted to. I lasted 2 months. Had some 25 year old kid as my manager. That didn't worl out well. The owner wanted me to mentor him and I was getting paid 8 bucks an hour, don't think so. Did a major renovation at our vacation home and moved in full time 6 months later, That kept me busy 24/7. I joined a local community theatre did a play and 2 plays later was asked to play the male leads in 3 different theatres. From that I got an agent and did a few commercials. That was fun until it wasn't. I was bored senseless the 3rd winter, I partnered with a lifelong friend in the Sunroom business. That kept me busy for 4 years with zero pay. Lost about 25K and was on the hook for $100,000.00 in 2008. To banks then it was a pentance, never had to pay, they wrote it off but I learned a lot about a small business and construction. Enough with my management experience that I taught a course in starting a small business in a local Community College for 2 years. Bought a nice size StarCraft and fished hard for 10 years. My health has gone for a bust now. I am glad I did everything I did when I could. No time to be bored at your age. Get your arse out there.
I don't know how it works where you are. It is better here In Ontario to work on the books for a number of reasons, people don't because they don't know the system and how to use it. It is different in almost all Provinces and states. Take a close look at it. Many deductions and benefits running a small business from home. No one says you must make a profit.
, hmmmm.. just 55, this southern heat helps my body, curious bout you other guys 
