When is the right time to "Pull the plug" and start another phase in life?

Only you can answer that question.

When I was young NCO, I'd ask that question of senior NCOs approaching retirement. They said, "You'll know when it's time...." For years I enjoyed myself, never calling my service a career, but my hobby.

Finally, in 2010, I changed positions hoping to be selected for Sergeant Major. The command climate turned out to be toxic and I lost my zest to continue serving. The command team led by fear and treated everyone like Privates. When I submitted my paperwork for retirement I couldn't get out fast enough.

Like I said in the beginning, "Only you can answer that question."

The right time is SO individual in nature....the time is right when it is right. Only the individual can make that determination. My wife always asked when we were younger "when are you going to get out of the military?". My answer was always the same..... "I will know it is time when it is time".....she never understood that answer....until recently. She looked at me one day and stated "you aren't having as much fun with it anymore are you?" I had to reply "you are correct....it is time" And thus began my retirement planning. It will have to be a personal choice, and only that person can make the final decision.

In my case it has always been external circumstances that forced the issue.