Al R:-
Those who retire to something are far more successful and fulfilled than those who retire away from something.
Very profound and very true, Al. I PVR'd after a mere 13+ years as I wanted to go on flying, which wasn't what the RAF had planned for me. No RAF Pension (missed that bit in QR's, but it wouldn't have changed my mind) and the gratuity went straight to Kidlington and the CAA in exchange for an Instrument Rating. I got my civilian flying career and thoroughly enjoyed it. The main thing I remember was the culture shock of being a civilian which was totally different from being in the Services. But it was 1973 and it seems that things have changed somewhat since then...
Good luck, Lamin, and don't be afraid to take some chances (in addition to PVRing!).