In this episode of the Fit Rich Life Podcast, I rebroadcast a conversation I originally recorded on the Mile High FI Podcast, where I share my personal journey into semi-retirement after leaving my high-paying sales career in March 2024.

We dive deep into what the first year of semi-retirement really looks like — the unexpected identity crisis, questions around self-worth without a traditional income, and the hidden burnout that often follows high performance.

I open up about the mental and emotional challenges I faced, and how coaching, honest conversations, and community helped me navigate that transition.

This conversation is about far more than money. We explore the importance of purpose, relationships, physical competition, and aligning your work with what truly matters.

If you're considering early retirement, a career pivot, or simply redesigning your life with intention, this episode offers a real, unfiltered look at what comes next.

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In this episode:

[00:00–00:39] Introduction & Rebroadcast from the Mile High Five Podcast

[00:40–03:25] The Reality of Early Semi-Retirement & Identity Shifts

[03:26–05:57] Leaving Sales Behind — The "Golden Goose" Job Dilemma

[05:58–14:38] Launching Fit Rich Life & Facing an Identity Crisis

[14:39–19:37] Hidden Burnout, Overachiever Mentality & Self-Worth

[19:38–34:53] The Power of Relationships, Soft Skills & Community

[34:54–41:25] Living the Fit Rich Life — Balancing Work, Health & Purpose

[41:26–46:01] Temptation to Return to Sales & Finding Meaning Beyond Money

[46:02–51:37] Building an Online Business, Pickleball & Physical Competition

[51:38–01:03:56] Creating a Supportive Environment & Navigating Semi-Retirement

[01:03:57–01:17:31] Coaching, Final Reflections & Words of Encouragement

Resources Mentioned:

https://milehighfi.com/podcast/297-justin-david-carl-identity-purpose-semi-retirement/

https://milehighfi.com/podcast/204-fit-rich-life/

Transitions Book by William Bridges: https://a.co/d/0BcpfU4

Full Show Notes w/ Links to resources: www.fitrichlife.com/podcast/

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My Identity Crisis Since Leaving the 9-5 Job | FRLP 96