@RJM posted:I don’t buy into the extra earning potential by starting work earlier. Most people are physically younger than 65yos in previous generations. Most companies don’t have retirement plans with compulsory retirement at 65.
Since I’m self employed now in my second career I plan to work part time into my late seventies. Then I’ll evaluate my mental competency relative to being in a “mistakes could be financially devastating” work environment. I enjoy having something to get up for, being challenged and interacting with clients. I also enjoy being able to go skiing any day I want in the winter.
Starting work earlier isn't about retiring early. It's about being in a position where you have more options when you need it (i.e. being financially ready to get married earlier or buy a home earlier). It also positions you to advance in your career faster with earlier work experience. You can still choose to work till you are 70, but that 1 year of head start may put in a better financial position when you are 70 so you can choose to ski more if you want to.
I'm also not saying it's guaranteed to get you ahead in life. But it seems like getting a 1 year head start gives a better chance of positioning your kid better in life than being successful in athletics in HS.