I didn't have a huge pile of ambition, but I knew what I had to do to survive and get ahead. I have never written a resume for myself. I have never once gotten a job with a job application. When I wanted a job, I found a place that needed someone, went there in person, told them I could do the job and was available immediately, and they hired me. I never once got refused. At my last job before retiring at 50 after 18 years, I was put on the clock less than an hour after I walked in the door. I know not everyone can do this, but it's a worthy goal.

I have been retired over 20 years, live in a fairly large house on an acre, and am comfortable. I do have a side hustle, but I only work when I feel like it. It's all on the computer, so it's not really that much work either. Because it's also my hobby, I put "hobby income" on the IRS form. That helps reduce my total tax bill. I think they don't charge SS tax on that income.