I just wanted to celebrate that I am 100% debt free, own my home, have 9 months emergency fund and am in the 92% for networth including home. I did this on a lower salary working for non profits. I'm 50, and it took a lot of hard work, discipline, and avoiding all the pitfalls we all face. I got good advice from folks who told me to max out my retirement savings. (one income)
I installed my own solar systems (pv and old school thermal hotwater - no debt), took away storm felled trees from my neighbours yards after storms to heat my house for free with the woodstove I installed, had my house insulated and sealed, did all the electrical, tiling, plumbing and carpentry work, converted all lights to LED, scrounged furniture, building supplies and bicycle parts from the dump, replaced grass with veggie garden, and I made sure that I wouldn't need a car. I do have a 1989 Saab 900 which I fix myself whenever possible; I ride my bike to work (all winter, New England). We have one child, and that's all we're going to have, so we've been working on the 529. I'm grateful I bought the smallest house I could find. 1963, 910 sf cape facing south! I want to thank the community here for all the inspiration to stay on track. I now completely control what I do and when I do it, who I work for, and what I will do. Stay focused and strong, and don't let anyone convince you that you need a bigger, better, fancier anything. DYI everything you can. Ride your bike, it's a beautiful way to save $$ and stay fit (waist 32, HR 56). I never imagined living a green, modest lifestyle would bring so much wealth. We even get to give money to our parents to help them out. What a great feeling to be able to give back to our parents! I'm now considering a career change. Why not!?