I agree with one point in the article…that is that I DID want a higher standard of living and that is why I planned for, achieved and FIRE'd at 49. I now hear sounds, see sights, sense smells that passed silently by my overstimulated senses which were overwhelmed by worry from manufactured Corporate problems and challenges which in the end only numbed me to the beautiful world around me.
Now I take joy in walking out on the deck in the early morning with a fresh cup of coffee, listening to leaves dancing in the breeze, enjoy the smell of the earth, water and flowers. I even now enjoy taking the slow, scenic route getting to my destination, enjoying the journey and its splendid surprises along the way. AAAHHH, indeed I found a higher standard of living in retirement…all on a low, self-induced (and planned) low, fixed income. And the best part is I will get a raise when I turn 62 and start to draw social security.
I planned my drawdown of savings and retirement funds using a zero-growth rate and I will still live a good life of travel, beer/wine, friends and the great outdoors. If my savings grows then great but it won't add to my standard of living because freedom
doesn't cost a nickel.
Best of luck to the author and contributors to this article as they just don't get it. Higher standard of living does not EVER mean more spending!