After many years of studying personal finance I have concluded that every question has the same answer.  The answer is “It depends”.

Can I retire early? – It depends.  What are your savings, your current age, your life expectancy, etc.?

Can I deduct this? – It depends.  Is it a business, a hobby, etc.?

Should I take social security early? – It depends.  Are you working, how is your health, etc.?