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How to Retire as Early as Humanly Possible

By The New York Times

The Financial Independence, Retire Early (FIRE) movement centers on aggressively saving and investing to achieve financial freedom at a young age. In this episode of The Daily, listeners gain insight into two approaches within FIRE - lean and fat - and hear the personal journeys of adherents who pursued this lifestyle through disciplined anti-consumerism, windfalls from entrepreneurship, and strategic career changes.

While attaining FIRE enables individuals to retire decades before traditional timelines, the episode examines the challenges some face in redefining purpose post-retirement. It delves into how FIRE encourages a shift in framing identity beyond professions, focusing instead on character development and discovering fulfillment in passions outside of work.

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How to Retire as Early as Humanly Possible

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How to Retire as Early as Humanly Possible

1-Page Summary

The Growing FIRE Movement

The Financial Independence, Retire Early (FIRE) movement champions aggressive saving and investing to achieve financial freedom and the option to retire early, attracting diverse followers across professions and income levels. Amy X. Wang describes FIRE adherents openly discussing finances and savings rates, with individuals like actor-turned-truck driver Essence Revealed saving up to 70% of earnings toward this goal.

Lean FIRE vs. Fat FIRE

The FIRE movement encompasses two main approaches:

  • Lean FIRE emphasizes minimalist living and anti-consumerism to drastically reduce expenses, as Wang notes.
  • Fat FIRE prioritizes maximizing wealth for a luxurious retirement lifestyle, according to Allen Wong, a Reddit moderator.

Personal FIRE Journeys

Alan Wong - Windfall from Entrepreneurship

Wong transitioned from coding to app development to support his mother after his father's suicide. His successful police scanner app enabled him to achieve FIRE, buy a home, and pursue passions like his green Lamborghini.

Merz - Meticulous Planning from Poverty

Growing up in poverty, Merz methodically applied FIRE principles from her 20s. By 33, she had amassed $500,000 through disciplined saving from modest income sources.

Essence Revealed - Career Shifts for Savings

The pandemic inspired Essence to become a truck driver, drastically reducing expenses while saving aggressively toward FIRE.

Redefining Purpose Post-FIRE

Many FIRE retirees struggle to find purpose without work's structure. Wong found meaning through volunteering and community engagement after initially feeling adrift. The FIRE movement encourages reframing identity beyond careers, as Wang explains, focusing on character over profession.

1-Page Summary

Additional Materials

Counterarguments

  • The aggressive saving rates required for FIRE may not be feasible for individuals with lower incomes or those with significant financial obligations, such as student loans or medical bills.
  • The FIRE movement may inadvertently promote a narrative that only those who achieve early retirement have succeeded financially, which can be demotivating or unrealistic for many.
  • Lean FIRE's emphasis on minimalist living could lead to an overly frugal lifestyle that may not be sustainable or enjoyable for everyone in the long term.
  • Fat FIRE's focus on accumulating wealth for a luxurious retirement might perpetuate the idea that material wealth is necessary for happiness, which is not a universally accepted belief.
  • The success stories highlighted often involve unique circumstances or high-income skills, which may not be replicable for the average person.
  • The movement's heavy reliance on stock market investments can be risky, as market downturns can significantly delay or impact the feasibility of retiring early.
  • The concept of retiring early may not account for the potential need for continued health insurance or unforeseen medical expenses, especially in countries without universal healthcare.
  • The FIRE movement's focus on personal finance can overlook broader systemic issues that affect people's ability to save, such as income inequality and lack of access to affordable education and healthcare.
  • Retiring early may lead to a loss of social connections and a sense of purpose for some individuals, as work often provides more than just financial compensation.
  • The movement may not address the potential environmental impact of investment choices, as the pursuit of high returns can sometimes be at odds with sustainable or ethical investing practices.

Actionables

  • You can start a "FIRE journal" to track your financial goals and reflect on your personal values, which can help align your spending with your aspirations for early retirement. Begin by setting aside time each week to document your expenses, savings rate, and investment choices. Use this journal to explore how your financial decisions relate to your values and long-term goals, such as financial independence. For example, if you value travel, you might prioritize saving for experiences over material possessions.
  • Create a "FIRE calculator" using a spreadsheet to project your retirement age based on different savings and investment scenarios. Input variables like your current savings, expected rate of return, and monthly expenses to see how changes in these factors could affect your retirement timeline. For instance, you could simulate how increasing your savings rate by 5% or reducing your expenses could bring you closer to your desired retirement age.
  • Engage in a "FIRE mentorship" by partnering with a friend or family member who also aims for financial independence. Set up regular meetings to discuss strategies, share resources, and hold each other accountable for financial goals. You could challenge each other to find new ways to save money or generate passive income, such as starting a side hustle or learning about dividend investing.

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How to Retire as Early as Humanly Possible

The FIRE (Financial Independence, Retire Early) movement and its growing popularity

The FIRE movement has emerged as a significant cultural force, driven by the desire for financial freedom and the option of early retirement. This movement encourages a lifestyle defined by aggressive saving and investing, and it has attracted a diverse group of individuals who are eager to leave the workforce on their own terms.

The FIRE movement is a philosophy centered on gaining financial freedom and retiring at a young age

Amy X. Wang provides a glimpse into the diversity of the FIRE movement's followers. An economy conference she describes features attendees from all walks of life, including millennials, retirees, public school educators, actors, dentists, and plumbers. These individuals, coming from across the country and around the world, are united by their goal of achieving financial independence and the ability to retire early.

The movement emphasizes aggressive saving and investing to maximize early retirement potential

The culture of financial transparency among FIRE adherents is palpable at the conference Wang attends, with individuals openly discussing details like bank balances, salaries, and debt. The movement’s principles are notably applied in real life, as illustrated by Essence Revealed, an actor turned truck driver who began saving 70% of her paycheck after encountering the FIRE movement during the pandemic. This aggressive saving approach is prevalent among followers of FIRE, aiming to expedite the journey to retirement.

In recent years, the FIRE movement has gained significant traction, drawing diverse adherents across income levels

Tavernise and Wang both highlight the philosophical dimension of FIRE, emphasizing freedom from work and ...

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The FIRE (Financial Independence, Retire Early) movement and its growing popularity

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Counterarguments

  • The aggressive saving rates required for FIRE may not be feasible for individuals with lower incomes or those with significant financial obligations.
  • The movement may inadvertently promote a sense of inadequacy or failure among those who cannot save as aggressively due to life circumstances.
  • Early retirement may not be desirable or fulfilling for everyone; some individuals find purpose and community in their careers.
  • The FIRE movement's anti-consumerist ethos could be seen as overly restrictive and may not account for the positive aspects of responsible consumption.
  • The movement may overlook the benefits of traditional retirement planning and the value of social safety nets.
  • The focus on personal financial management may underemphasize the role of systemic issues in economic insecurity.
  • The FIRE movement's principles may not be sustainable in the long term, especially in the face of economic downturns or unexpected personal expenses.
  • The ...

Actionables

  • You can start a 'FIRE journal' to track your financial goals and progress, where you document your savings rate, investment choices, and milestones toward financial independence. This personal record can help you stay accountable and visualize your journey, making adjustments as needed based on your financial growth and life changes.
  • Create a 'FIRE calculator' using a simple spreadsheet to project how changes in your spending and saving habits could affect your retirement age. By inputting your current expenses, savings, and investment returns, you can play with different scenarios to see how an increase in savings rate or a reduction in expenses could bring you closer to early retirement.
  • Engage in a 'FIRE challenge' with friends o ...

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Different approaches within the FIRE movement (lean FIRE vs. fat FIRE)

The FIRE (Financial Independence, Retire Early) movement encompasses diverse strategies for achieving financial freedom and early retirement. The two primary approaches within this movement are "lean FIRE" and "fat FIRE," each with distinct living standards and financial goals.

The traditional "lean FIRE" approach focuses on minimalist living and anti-consumerism

The traditional "lean FIRE" approach to financial independence is grounded in a minimalist lifestyle and a strong stance against consumerism. Proponents of lean FIRE aim to drastically reduce their expenses, living as frugally as possible to achieve their financial goals. The movement started with a foundation of anti-consumerism, with early adopters seeking to minimize their spending as well as their environmental footprint, seeing such practices as an ethical and responsible way to live.

Lean FIRE proponents aim to reduce expenses to the bare essentials, living frugally to achieve financial independence

Embracing the lean FIRE approach means cutting expenses to the bare essentials. Lean FIRE followers live simply and are content with minimal living, adhering to a philosophy that a can of beans is a suitable meal versus indulging in a lavish Michelin-starred dinner. This level of frugality is not just about saving money but also aligns with a broader ethos of living with less.

The "fat FIRE" approach, in contrast, prioritizes maximizing wealth and retiring in luxury

In stark contrast to lean FIRE ...

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Different approaches within the FIRE movement (lean FIRE vs. fat FIRE)

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Counterarguments

  • While lean FIRE promotes frugality, it may not be sustainable or enjoyable for everyone, potentially leading to burnout or a lower quality of life.
  • The minimalist lifestyle of lean FIRE could be criticized for potentially overlooking the benefits of spending on quality goods or experiences that could enhance well-being.
  • Lean FIRE's extreme cost-cutting might not be feasible for individuals with dependents or those living in high-cost areas, making it an inaccessible goal for some.
  • Fat FIRE's focus on accumulating wealth could be seen as perpetuating materialistic values and may not necessarily lead to a more fulfilling retirement.
  • The fat FIRE approach may encourage overworking and high-stress careers to achieve financial goals, which could negatively impact health and personal relationships.
  • Fat FIRE could be criticized for being environmentally unsustainable if the pursuit of luxury inv ...

Actionables

  • You can create a "Needs and Wants" ledger to distinguish between essential expenses and luxuries, helping you align with the Lean FIRE philosophy. Start by tracking every purchase you make for a month, categorizing each as a "need" (essentials for living) or a "want" (everything else). Review the ledger to identify patterns and areas where you can cut back on the "wants" to reduce your overall expenses.
  • Develop a "Luxury Swap" habit to embrace Fat FIRE goals without immediate high spending. For each luxury item or service you desire, find a more cost-effective alternative that provides a similar level of satisfaction. For instance, if you're eyeing a high-end coffee maker, opt for a mid-range one that still has great reviews, and invest the difference in your wealth accumulation fund.
  • Engage in a "Skill Investment Challenge" where you dedi ...

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How to Retire as Early as Humanly Possible

Personal stories and case studies of people who have achieved FIRE, including their backgrounds, motivations, and strategies

The journey to financial independence and early retirement (FIRE) varies greatly among those who pursue it. Each person's background, motivations, and strategies for achieving FIRE are as unique as their personal stories. From unexpected windfalls to meticulous planning, these case studies illuminate diverse paths toward the same goal of financial freedom.

Alan Wong - Unexpected Windfall Through Entrepreneurship

Alan Wong grew up in Queens, New York City, observing his immigrant parents' dedication to providing for their family. His father, who escaped a tough life in rural China, started anew in Chinatown, working long hours. This family history and a deep-seated desire to care for his mother drove Alan towards entrepreneurship.

Alan Wong's Family History and Desire to Care for His Mother

Alan's path to FIRE was not straightforward. His father was ousted from his business and fell into depression, culminating in suicide. This tragedy deeply affected Alan, especially as he found himself needing to care for his mother, who began experiencing psychotic episodes. Working an entry-level coding job was insufficient for the level of care his mother required.

Determined not to endure the exhausting routine that had taken a toll on his parents, Alan turned to app development during the early days of the app store. Despite several initial failures, he created a highly successful police scanner app that allowed users to tune into police radios. The app's revenue, at one point hitting $350,000 per month, enabled Alan to buy a house for his mother, hire help for her care, and indulge in a bright lime green Lamborghini as a symbol of success and personal reward. Living the FIRE lifestyle, Alan now moderates one of the biggest FIRE subreddits and provides coaching to others aiming to achieve financial independence.

Merz - Meticulous Planning from a Young Age

On the more methodical side of the spectrum is Merz, introduced by Amy X. Wang. Merz's upbringing in poverty shaped her determination to gain control over her finances. Discovering FIRE in her early 20s, she meticulously applied the movement' ...

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Personal stories and case studies of people who have achieved FIRE, including their backgrounds, motivations, and strategies

Additional Materials

Counterarguments

  • The success of individuals like Alan Wong may not be easily replicable, as not everyone will have the opportunity for an unexpected windfall or the ability to create a highly successful app.
  • Merz's story, while inspiring, may not account for the varying financial responsibilities or setbacks that others may face, which could make meticulous planning and saving more challenging.
  • Essence Revealed's approach to living in a truck to save money is not a viable option for everyone, especially those with families or other commitments that require a stable living environment.
  • The stories presented may oversimplify the complexity of achieving FIRE and do not address the potential risks or sacrifices involved in such lifestyle changes.
  • The narrative may inadvertently promote the idea tha ...

Actionables

  • You can identify your unique motivations by writing a personal mission statement that reflects your background and aspirations, similar to how Alan Wong's drive stemmed from his family's history. Start by reflecting on your family's journey, your upbringing, and the values instilled in you, then craft a statement that captures these elements and how they influence your financial goals.
  • Create a "Windfall Plan" to strategically allocate any unexpected income you might receive, as Alan Wong did with his app development success. This plan should outline how you would invest, save, or spend unexpected funds before they arrive, ensuring that you make thoughtful decisions that align with your financial independence goals.
  • Adopt a "Career Flexibility Mindset" by exploring how your current skills could tra ...

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Challenges and uncertainties of transitioning to early retirement, such as finding purpose and identity

Transitioning to early retirement, individuals often confront the daunting task of redefining their purpose and identity outside the traditional work structure, a challenge experienced by many who follow the Financial Independence, Retire Early (FIRE) movement.

Many FIRE retirees struggle to define themselves and their purpose without the structure of traditional work

Alan Wong, a retiree who achieved financial independence and exited the workforce early, found himself grappling with questions of fulfillment. After several years spent traveling and indulging in various activities, Wong discovered that those endeavors alone did not lead to happiness. It was not until he began volunteering and engaging with his community that he felt he was leading a worthwhile life rather than simply whiling time away.

The FIRE movement encourages participants to reframe their identities beyond the confines of their careers

Through Wong's journey, the essence of the FIRE philosophy came to light. Wong describes his post-retirement life as one without an identity anchored to work or any specific pursuit. He believes that one's id ...

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Challenges and uncertainties of transitioning to early retirement, such as finding purpose and identity

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Counterarguments

  • While the FIRE movement promotes finding identity beyond work, it may not account for the deep sense of loss some individuals feel when they no longer have the social structure and sense of purpose provided by their careers.
  • The idea that everyone can find fulfillment in volunteering and community engagement may not hold true for all, as personal satisfaction is subjective and can be influenced by a variety of factors, including personal interests, health, and social dynamics.
  • The FIRE movement's focus on intrinsic value may overlook the reality that societal structures and cultural norms often still place significant emphasis on professional identity, which can affect social interactions and self-perception.
  • The assumption that everyone has the financial means or discipline to achieve early retirement through the FIRE movement may not consider economic disparities and the varying financial obligations individuals may face.
  • Encouraging people t ...

Actionables

  • You can start a personal blog or journal to explore and articulate your evolving identity post-retirement. Writing regularly about your experiences, thoughts, and feelings can help you process the transition and redefine your sense of self beyond your career. For example, you might write about a hobby you're passionate about, reflections on personal growth, or stories about meaningful interactions with others.
  • Create a "purpose portfolio" where you collect and plan activities that align with your values and interests. This could include short-term projects, learning goals, and ways to contribute to your community. For instance, if you value education, you might set a goal to read a certain number of books each month or if community is important, plan to attend local council meetings.
  • Engage in daily "character exercises" where you focus ...

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