I was in the same boat as the contract situation. Was on contract since 2018, picked up another contract in 2020. I was working 2 jobs since 2020 fully remote, which was so nice! Alas, all good things must come to an end eventually. 2nd contract did not get renewed at the end of July. First contract finally said "We have to convert you to a FTE or release you". Went from making $215/hr combined to $75/hour as a FTE at 1 job.Previously I said the TSLA stock price would decide when I retire.
If the share price hit $1,000 or was approaching it fast I'd ignore my age and retire. 10% early withdrawal penalty be damned.
If the share price was below that or didn't look to be heading that way I'd wait. Try and get a better price later and avoid that 10% early withdrawal penalty.
Considering my cost basis, I don't really want to sell down here in the sub $300 range.
I still don't know what my next job is, but the stock price says I need to keep working. I've been on the same contract since 2012 but it's ending this year.
Even if I don't pick up more work I won't be selling TSLA at these levels. I have funds not in TSLA stock I'd live on until TSLA moves into a range I want to sell at.
But I suppose it's possible I'll be forced into a "Barista FIRE" type early retirement or a full on Retirement if I can't find something at my current company. Who knows maybe I'll grab a part time job at my local Tesla Service Center / Adviser / Delivery Center just for the insurance.
Luckily, i socked all the 2nd contract job's $$$ away so now i am patiently waiting for $TSLA to hit $350+ to seriously consider retiring.