An AI editor helped research and polish this, but the overthinking is all mine.

Two months into retirement, I’ve been thinking less about how to build wealth and more about what to do with it once you’ve reached a point where you feel “done” with the accumulation game. Maybe you’ve been there too—saved enough, checked the boxes, and then looked around wondering, *What now?*

One recent post onOf Dollars & Data estimated that a U.S. household might need roughly $3 million to $5 million to live fully on their own terms. I get it. That kind of number gives clarity and comfort. But there’s a catch: the kind of “freedom” that number buys can start to feel like a retreat from life, rather than engagement with it.

When I walked away from full-time work, I thought I’d arrived. Instead I found space—so much space—that I started missing the very things I’d assumed I liked escaping: purpose, community, shared time, contribution. Money that helps you disconnect is useful; money that helps you belong may be more interesting.

Have you ever found yourself saying, “Yes—I’m financially set. Now how do I plug in?” What actions have you taken (or considered) to use your “enough” for something bigger than yourself? I’d love to hear your stories and advice.

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