Retired at age 53 in 2001. In hindsight, I could have waited 2 or 3 more years, saved some more money, and received a years' severance pay and a smaller pension, No regrets. It's all about time and using it well.

Another college buddy of mine retired last year at age 65. I said, now we're even. I've burned 14 years of retirement with nothing more to show than good memories, so I'm no longer ahead of you as far as screwing around. We both have to work on making good memories for the next 14 years.