Author Topic: I’m glad I didn’t find out about FIRE until my 40’s  (Read 14567 times)

JayKay

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Re: I’m glad I didn’t find out about FIRE until my 40’s
« Reply #50 on: September 06, 2017, 09:26:07 AM »
I'm in a similar position, where my 20s was basically a wash financially, and I didn't really start until my 30s.  Looking back, I do regret not doing more earlier. 

But, I think some of it was chance too.  When started working, I wasn't interested in financial matters and retirement so I didn't seek it out.  And there wasn't as much info online about it back then either, certainly nothing like today.  I don't think even the concept of retiring in your 30s really started until in the mid-2000's.

So, instead, I just focused on growing my income and moving up in my job.  To me, that was success.

mathlete

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Re: I’m glad I didn’t find out about FIRE until my 40’s
« Reply #51 on: September 06, 2017, 09:41:46 AM »
As someone who is in their 20s and got an early start, FIRE and frugality aren't the bummer that some are making it out to be.

I don't feel deprived of anything, I feel optimized. Maybe that's because I make a pretty decent living, but given that OP amassed a million by their forties without finding FIRE communities, I'd say the same probably goes for them.

It's not about depriving myself from going out with friends. It's the recognition that the, *ahem*, "character building" of a shot of well whiskey is just as much fun as an $11 shooter.

It's not about depriving myself from eating out. It's the recognition that leaving the office and driving a few miles to spend $10 on lunch doesn't bring me much joy, and that learning to prep my own work lunches is cheaper and healthier anyway. I still go out to eat with my girlfriend about once a week, and more if it ends up as an excuse to see friends.

It's not about depriving myself of travel. It's the recognition that a little bit of time and effort working rewards programs, and sucking it up and going with discount airlines and flexible travel means that I travel more than I ever thought I would. Two hours into my destination, I'm not thinking about how much Spirit sucks, I can tell you that.

I do totally agree that a life without regret is the best one to lead though. And everyone has to do what makes them happy.

soccerluvof4

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Re: I’m glad I didn’t find out about FIRE until my 40’s
« Reply #52 on: September 06, 2017, 09:53:10 AM »
I too would agree with the OP. I was so busy building a business , starting a family etc..that I was already making responsible decisions. Now thats not to say that I could not have made still better ones but more stress, anxiety I did not need. The timing for me blessedly worked out finding out about MMM in my mid to late 40's where I had time to max out 401k , sell stuff I wasnt using, downsize etc.. But yea, I wouldnt say no regrets but not going to feel bad either that I made a good living because I busted my ass to do it.