There is no substitute for integrity. In a world where greed and taking shortcuts seem to be major themes, there is nothing that can replace one’s reputation. The ability to look back on life and say, “I did it the right way” is a treasure. There is no do-over when you lose your integrity and reputation.
I can’t say I have been good at it, but being willing to listen to each other and compromise are keys to staying married.
Don’t retire if you can avoid it. I stopped getting paid by someone else to work 12 years ago, but fortunately I joined a group who started a private investing firm together, after retiring from their former careers. It has kept us young and engaged, and that may be one of the keys to good health.