Intriguing question. Personally I had to take ill health retirement and at first I was lost without a job, but slowly over time I have created a new life without work. Now I would say I'm much happier being out of the rat race. It's true I live a quiet life but I have so much extra time to funnel towards artistic endeavours, as well as spend time with family and friends. Maybe some day I'll even get a grandchild...