I 'soft retired' at 64. I work 3 days a week and take extended vacations.

George Crabtree was lured back to his old job and took the "soft retirement" option.

Courtesy of George Crabtree George Crabtree retired from his job as a commercial printer after 40 years in the trade.

He looked forward to enjoying his free time, such as volunteering at a botanical garden.

Then he got a call from his ex-manager.

Crabtree agreed to a "soft retirement" under his own terms.

This story is based on an interview with George Crabtree, 65, a retiree who also works for a commercial printing firm from Seattle .

It has been edited for length and clarity.

I retired from my job as a commercial printer on October 31, 2025, after working at the same company for 10 years.

It was four days before my 65th birthday.

I'd considered holding out until the official retirement age of 67.

However, the recent deaths of my brothers-in-law made me think again, "What am I waiting for?" I thought.

My wife and I should make some more memories together before it's too late.

Have you "soft retired" from your job or profession? Please email Jane Ridley at [email protected] to share your story with Business Insider.

We spoke to financial planners who said we were good to go.