Some have retired even if they don't have enough to retire properly, true. They'll enter the cash economy and do yardwork or handyman work while living off whatever savings they have.

Others quit their jobs, went on unemployment and used the time to stop, think and navigate to something better suited to who they are.

Many did a similar thing but added a certification or diploma that would allow them to upgrade from their old role to a better paying and more fulfilling role.

The emerging pattern is that millions of people were stuck in shitty jobs they hated, or just hated their bosses, and didn't have the space to make a u turn until covid and the stimulus package. Net net, this is all very good for the economic and cultural health of the nation.

Some people - you know who - complain that retail workers and other low end employees are making far too much money and that this will destroy the economy. Correction: it may destroy the shithouse economy but not the whole economy. If Walmart can't find people to work for $8/hour, this is OK by me.