I think it's time I officially join this cohort, if you'll have me. :) I've been eying 2022 for quite a while, ever since I learned about FIRE and started planning for it. It was a goal that seemed reasonable at the time based on average market returns and consistent savings. Well now that it's getting close, I'm definitely on track and I better commit or I might fall into the OMY trap.
Back in March-April this year, I thought 2022 was out the window. I was down almost $150k and didn't have much hope that things would rebound anytime soon with the world shut down and a raging global pandemic. Of course, I was proven very wrong over the rest of the year. I still don't understand how markets have gone up so much in this pandemic. Just goes to show, don't market time...
I'm now quite ahead of plan. I could still be done in 2022 even if the market stays flat and I just keep investing the same amount as I have been. With any gains, I will hit my number next year. And obviously with another crash/bear market, I could be pushing it out. Either way, I'm planning to take summer of 2022 off. Either RE or a sabbatical if the market is down.
I'm still young and single, so I'm still not exactly sure what RE will look like for me. I'm worried I don't have enough to "retire to" as people say. I just have generic plans of being outside a lot and doing some more traveling. I love biking, hiking, kayaking, and just being outside on a nice day and would love to do all that while looking at some gorgeous new scenery. I've considered full-time RVing, but not sure I want to do that on my own. Might just go with Prius camper type setup and go for long road trips (still need to work on acquiring said Prius or suitable car!). In any case, I think I will be happier not having to give up 40+ hours a week for the next 30+ years. And if I change my mind, I can always go find a job again. I am planning to volunteer so hope that fulfills my need to contribute and get some social interaction.
Anyway, I'm happy to be here joining the 2022 club. Hope everyone is on track for meeting their planned date/FI number!