Long story short: I was a teacher for 26 years, worked before then since teen years, so well over 30 years, close to 40. Got to retire three years early in 2020 due to Covid. Sold two properties in Los Angeles, have income and health insurance for life due to late husband. Will get retirement summer 2023, plus 403b that I paid into over the years. Money isn't an issue, which feels super weird having scrimped, saved, and hustled most of my life. I know I'm blessed and privileged! I had always been terrified since teen years of ending up a bag lady, homeless, starving.
And yet… I still have this compulsion, this super-strong Protestant work ethic that makes me feel weirdly guilty for not getting up every day and going to work. I absolutely ADORE being able to structure my time as I want. More time for family, friends, community, my own hobbies. I don't miss teaching; I did that long enough, over a quarter century! For the record, I am Protestant, been Proddy for generations, and live in the American Deep South. Work, family, church here is what it's ALL about for most people.
Any tips and suggestions on helping me calm my over-active Protestant work ethic? It's been yelling at me for two-plus years now to get a job, ya lazy bum. I'm tired of listening to it!