Hello,
after lurking on the site for the past year or so, I have finally decided to register.
I don't like posting much on the internet but wanted to say “thank you” to all the active contributors here who have provided insightful information.
I am just a “Stranger on the Internet” (or SotI for short), and many things from the US do not quite fit my home country. I am also not one of the typical Mustachians, as I don't so much look for ER (I still have about 15 years to go until regular retirement age in my country), but rather focus on FI, mostly.
The reason is that while I have a great life and work as it is, I don't quite trust the official political rhetoric in my country when it comes to retirement: on a linear trajectory, I would be able to count on a decent and comfortable state pension in 15 years. Unfortunately, political action speaks louder than words and I doubt the situation will be that rosey. So I rather want to tip the scale towards being able to retire independently, without any state funds. “Bail money”, so to speak.
My financial situation is not bad, but not good enough to be able to pull out yet. I tend to live well below my means, but not (yet) as frugal as many Mustachians here.
So, I am looking for ways to improve - or solidify - my situation (as fast as possible, but with certain limitations due to a couple of dependents I need to take care of and who account for the significant portion of 15-20% of my monthly net salary). I cannot discuss financials at home (which would induce anxiety attacks and depression to my DH), so being both the sole bread-winner and financial controller, I have to keep my own counsel.
This site and the forum is very much appreciate to help me find the areas that I can still improve in.