Author Topic: 2018 FIRE cohort  (Read 738157 times)

wordnerd

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Re: 2018 FIRE cohort
« Reply #1600 on: May 01, 2018, 05:54:08 PM »
Well, today was our last day. It doesn't feel real yet, largely because we will give notice partially through our maternity/paternity leave, but it's starting to sink in a little this afternoon.

I closed out of all my projects, so spent most of today talking with co-workers and finishing training my replacement. As I disengaged, it was a bit surreal seeing my co-workers so stressed and running around in circles to mitigate invented crises, so emotionally invested in the outcomes. Up until a few days ago, that was me. In fact, I hadn't chatted with co-workers in awhile because I was constantly in meetings, responding to the fire drill of the hour, etc. At just a small remove, the idea of spending one's waking hours in that state seems somewhat ridiculous and sad. Though I expect to work again in some capacity, I don't want to go back to being that.

SwordGuy

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Re: 2018 FIRE cohort
« Reply #1601 on: May 01, 2018, 06:04:47 PM »


01/01/18  CowboyAndIndian (at 59) CONFIRMED
01/04/18  Gimesalot (at 33) CONFIRMED
01/06/18  Monkey Uncle (at 49) CONFIRMED
01/26/18  PizzaSteve (at 53) CONFIRMED
01/31/18  patches (at 33) CONFIRMED
01/31/18  Wintergreen78 CONFIRMED
01/31/18  MomCPA  CONFIRMED
02/01/18  DTaggart (at 40) CONFIRMED
02/05/18  Mrbeardedbigbucks CONFIRMED
02/09/18  JLTinVA (at 42) CONFIRMED
02/14/18  Gimesalot DH (at 40) CONFIRMED
02/28/18  Caoineag (at 36) CONFIRMED
03/01/18  Clean Shaven (at 45) CONFIRMED Part Time
03/02/18  brooklynguy (at 37) CONFIRMED
03/07/18  Aegishjalmur (at 35) CONFIRMED
03/16/18  Cherry Lane (at 43) CONFIRMED
03/27/18  Mrs. Honeyfill CONFIRMED
03/28/18  Target2018 CONFIRMED
03/28/18  homestead neohio (at 39) CONFIRMED
03/30/18  Moxie (at 58) CONFIRMED
03/31/18  msilenus (at 38) CONFIRMED
04/03/18  lostformars (at 38) CONFIRMED
04/04/18  OzBeach (at 54) CONFIRMED
04/25/18  Modernaimend DH (at 39) CONFIRMED
04/25/18  ZiziPB (at 50) CONFIRMED
04/26/18  NinetyFour (at 56) CONFIRMED
04/26/18  SwordGuy (at 60) PART TIME. (Just 1-2 months.)
04/27/18  poppydog and DW CONFIRMED
04/27/18  andkar CONFIRMED
04/??/18  PKate and DH
04/??/18  Calvin
04/??/18  FernFree
04/??/18  HappyMargo
04/??/18  Mother Fussbudget
05/01/18  wordnerd and DH (at 30 and 36) CONFIRMED
05/08/18  SwordGuy DW (SwordGuy isn't saying.   He wants to live.)
05/03/18  Modernaimend (at 35)
05/15/18  Markbike528CBX (at 53.5)
05/25/18  CheapskateWife (at 42) and CheapskateHubs (at 49)
05/25/18  Gyosho (at 55)
05/25/18  CodeZed
05/25/18  Acastus
05/??/18  Alim Nassor
06/01/18  Honeyfill  (at 60)
06/01/18  step_away
06/03/18  moneytaichi
06/15/18  DavisGang90 (at 49)
06/25/18  MaybeBabyMustache (at 42)
06/28/18  CHF (at 51)
06/29/18  aperture
06/??/18  Agent Rosenflower
06/??/18  dbtx
06/??/18  Omalley
06/??/18  randomgiraffe
06/??/18  SwissMiss
06/??/18  HenryDavid
07/??/18  AussieGirl
07/??/18  ChasesFish
07/??/18  Mr Griz
07/??/18  BackAndForth
07/??/18  cerat0n1a
07/??/18  Fresh Bread
07/??/18  SnidelyWhiplashStache
08/01/18  SugarMountain
08/24/18  sol (at 41)
08/31/18  JerseyGrrrl
08/??/18  Mr Mark
08/??/18  NorCalistache
08/??/18  Mogadishu
08/07/18  RunningWithScissors
09/01/18  Vegasgirl (at 49)
09/21/18  Ottawa
09/25/18  MaybeBabyMustache
09/30/18  SwissMiss
10/05/18  JumboShrimp
10/25/18  PhilB (at 52)
10/??/18  Fire1018
10/??/18  Happy
10/??/18  Irishtache
11/??/18  DeSteeg
11/??/18  Kris
12/21/18  LateStarter
12/31/18  DavidAnnArbor (at 53) (Won't renew my office lease)
12/??/18  EnjoyIt
12/??/18  yoda34
??/??/18  Blindsquirrel
??/??/18  FLStache
??/??/18  Michread
??/??/18  Minnesota_mom
??/??/18  MiserlyMiser
??/??/18  pecunia
??/??/18  Badblackgirl
??/??/18  Sofa King
??/??/19  RetireAbroadAt35  05/??/18, now OMY.
??/??/20  Gooki   2MY or 3MY


Monkey Uncle

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Re: 2018 FIRE cohort
« Reply #1602 on: May 01, 2018, 06:16:22 PM »
Well, today was our last day. It doesn't feel real yet, largely because we will give notice partially through our maternity/paternity leave, but it's starting to sink in a little this afternoon.

I closed out of all my projects, so spent most of today talking with co-workers and finishing training my replacement. As I disengaged, it was a bit surreal seeing my co-workers so stressed and running around in circles to mitigate invented crises, so emotionally invested in the outcomes. Up until a few days ago, that was me. In fact, I hadn't chatted with co-workers in awhile because I was constantly in meetings, responding to the fire drill of the hour, etc. At just a small remove, the idea of spending one's waking hours in that state seems somewhat ridiculous and sad. Though I expect to work again in some capacity, I don't want to go back to being that.

In a few months, you'll wonder how you ever did it.  I'm coming up on four months FIREd now, and the thought of ever being part of the office shit circus again is totally foreign to me.  Yesterday I got an email from a former colleague who wanted to see if I was interested in coming back to the agency as a temporary fill-in for a staff group manager position very similar to the one I left.  Although I was cordial, that was the easiest "no" I've ever given!

markbike528CBX

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Re: 2018 FIRE cohort
« Reply #1603 on: May 02, 2018, 05:28:22 AM »
My actual end date (show up after vacation and touch my desk day) is June 1st.   My last two days in the office are May 9th and 22nd.   I have vacation plus floating holidays etc.   If anybody is updating the list they can change it, but I don't think it's important enough to warrant a list update by itself.

SwordGuy

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Re: 2018 FIRE cohort
« Reply #1604 on: May 03, 2018, 06:31:12 AM »
Updated Markbike528CBX


01/01/18  CowboyAndIndian (at 59) CONFIRMED
01/04/18  Gimesalot (at 33) CONFIRMED
01/06/18  Monkey Uncle (at 49) CONFIRMED
01/26/18  PizzaSteve (at 53) CONFIRMED
01/31/18  patches (at 33) CONFIRMED
01/31/18  Wintergreen78 CONFIRMED
01/31/18  MomCPA  CONFIRMED
02/01/18  DTaggart (at 40) CONFIRMED
02/05/18  Mrbeardedbigbucks CONFIRMED
02/09/18  JLTinVA (at 42) CONFIRMED
02/14/18  Gimesalot DH (at 40) CONFIRMED
02/28/18  Caoineag (at 36) CONFIRMED
03/01/18  Clean Shaven (at 45) CONFIRMED Part Time
03/02/18  brooklynguy (at 37) CONFIRMED
03/07/18  Aegishjalmur (at 35) CONFIRMED
03/16/18  Cherry Lane (at 43) CONFIRMED
03/27/18  Mrs. Honeyfill CONFIRMED
03/28/18  Target2018 CONFIRMED
03/28/18  homestead neohio (at 39) CONFIRMED
03/30/18  Moxie (at 58) CONFIRMED
03/31/18  msilenus (at 38) CONFIRMED
04/03/18  lostformars (at 38) CONFIRMED
04/04/18  OzBeach (at 54) CONFIRMED
04/25/18  Modernaimend DH (at 39) CONFIRMED
04/25/18  ZiziPB (at 50) CONFIRMED
04/26/18  NinetyFour (at 56) CONFIRMED
04/26/18  SwordGuy (at 60) PART TIME. (Just 1-2 months.)
04/27/18  poppydog and DW CONFIRMED
04/27/18  andkar CONFIRMED
04/??/18  PKate and DH
04/??/18  Calvin
04/??/18  FernFree
04/??/18  HappyMargo
04/??/18  Mother Fussbudget
05/01/18  wordnerd and DH (at 30 and 36) CONFIRMED
05/08/18  SwordGuy DW (SwordGuy isn't saying.   He wants to live.)
05/03/18  Modernaimend (at 35)
05/25/18  CheapskateWife (at 42) and CheapskateHubs (at 49)
05/25/18  Gyosho (at 55)
05/25/18  CodeZed
05/25/18  Acastus
05/??/18  Alim Nassor
06/01/18  Honeyfill  (at 60)
06/01/18  Markbike528CBX (at 53.5)
06/01/18  step_away
06/03/18  moneytaichi
06/15/18  DavisGang90 (at 49)
06/25/18  MaybeBabyMustache (at 42)
06/28/18  CHF (at 51)
06/29/18  aperture
06/??/18  Agent Rosenflower
06/??/18  dbtx
06/??/18  Omalley
06/??/18  randomgiraffe
06/??/18  SwissMiss
06/??/18  HenryDavid
07/??/18  AussieGirl
07/??/18  ChasesFish
07/??/18  Mr Griz
07/??/18  BackAndForth
07/??/18  cerat0n1a
07/??/18  Fresh Bread
07/??/18  SnidelyWhiplashStache
08/01/18  SugarMountain
08/24/18  sol (at 41)
08/31/18  JerseyGrrrl
08/??/18  Mr Mark
08/??/18  NorCalistache
08/??/18  Mogadishu
08/07/18  RunningWithScissors
09/01/18  Vegasgirl (at 49)
09/21/18  Ottawa
09/25/18  MaybeBabyMustache
09/30/18  SwissMiss
10/05/18  JumboShrimp
10/25/18  PhilB (at 52)
10/??/18  Fire1018
10/??/18  Happy
10/??/18  Irishtache
11/??/18  DeSteeg
11/??/18  Kris
12/21/18  LateStarter
12/31/18  DavidAnnArbor (at 53) (Won't renew my office lease)
12/??/18  EnjoyIt
12/??/18  yoda34
??/??/18  Blindsquirrel
??/??/18  FLStache
??/??/18  Michread
??/??/18  Minnesota_mom
??/??/18  MiserlyMiser
??/??/18  pecunia
??/??/18  Badblackgirl
??/??/18  Sofa King
??/??/19  RetireAbroadAt35  05/??/18, now OMY.
??/??/20  Gooki   2MY or 3MY


SwordGuy

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Re: 2018 FIRE cohort
« Reply #1605 on: May 04, 2018, 07:56:46 AM »
Just got word that my replacement accepted the job offer.

He'll meet with the client next week and if the client accepts him, he'll start two weeks later. 

Looks like it won't take a full 2 months, which is just fine by me.

modernaimend

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Re: 2018 FIRE cohort
« Reply #1606 on: May 04, 2018, 11:26:03 AM »
And I'm done! I've been wrapping up projects for awhile, so yesterday ended up being a very short day, there was simply nothing left to do.  It feels a bit surreal.  My DH and I are having a mismatch of energy levels at the moment - I'm bouncing off the walls excited since he FIREd last week and even more so now that I'm done, and he seems to be decompressing by being really tired and needing quiet time.  Funny to react so differently at first! I'm sure we'll both get back to normal at some point.

Great to see so many people confirmed in the last while!

SwordGuy

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Re: 2018 FIRE cohort
« Reply #1607 on: May 04, 2018, 11:49:46 AM »


01/01/18  CowboyAndIndian (at 59) CONFIRMED
01/04/18  Gimesalot (at 33) CONFIRMED
01/06/18  Monkey Uncle (at 49) CONFIRMED
01/26/18  PizzaSteve (at 53) CONFIRMED
01/31/18  patches (at 33) CONFIRMED
01/31/18  Wintergreen78 CONFIRMED
01/31/18  MomCPA  CONFIRMED
02/01/18  DTaggart (at 40) CONFIRMED
02/05/18  Mrbeardedbigbucks CONFIRMED
02/09/18  JLTinVA (at 42) CONFIRMED
02/14/18  Gimesalot DH (at 40) CONFIRMED
02/28/18  Caoineag (at 36) CONFIRMED
03/01/18  Clean Shaven (at 45) CONFIRMED Part Time
03/02/18  brooklynguy (at 37) CONFIRMED
03/07/18  Aegishjalmur (at 35) CONFIRMED
03/16/18  Cherry Lane (at 43) CONFIRMED
03/27/18  Mrs. Honeyfill CONFIRMED
03/28/18  Target2018 CONFIRMED
03/28/18  homestead neohio (at 39) CONFIRMED
03/30/18  Moxie (at 58) CONFIRMED
03/31/18  msilenus (at 38) CONFIRMED
04/03/18  lostformars (at 38) CONFIRMED
04/04/18  OzBeach (at 54) CONFIRMED
04/25/18  Modernaimend DH (at 39) CONFIRMED
04/25/18  ZiziPB (at 50) CONFIRMED
04/26/18  NinetyFour (at 56) CONFIRMED
04/26/18  SwordGuy (at 60) PART TIME. (Just 1-2 months.)
04/27/18  poppydog and DW CONFIRMED
04/27/18  andkar CONFIRMED
04/??/18  PKate and DH
04/??/18  Calvin
04/??/18  FernFree
04/??/18  HappyMargo
04/??/18  Mother Fussbudget
05/01/18  wordnerd and DH (at 30 and 36) CONFIRMED
05/03/18  Modernaimend (at 35) CONFIRMED
05/08/18  SwordGuy DW (SwordGuy isn't saying.   He wants to live.)
05/25/18  CheapskateWife (at 42) and CheapskateHubs (at 49)
05/25/18  Gyosho (at 55)
05/25/18  CodeZed
05/25/18  Acastus
05/??/18  Alim Nassor
06/01/18  Honeyfill  (at 60)
06/01/18  Markbike528CBX (at 53.5)
06/01/18  step_away
06/03/18  moneytaichi
06/15/18  DavisGang90 (at 49)
06/25/18  MaybeBabyMustache (at 42)
06/28/18  CHF (at 51)
06/29/18  aperture
06/??/18  Agent Rosenflower
06/??/18  dbtx
06/??/18  Omalley
06/??/18  randomgiraffe
06/??/18  SwissMiss
06/??/18  HenryDavid
07/??/18  AussieGirl
07/??/18  ChasesFish
07/??/18  Mr Griz
07/??/18  BackAndForth
07/??/18  cerat0n1a
07/??/18  Fresh Bread
07/??/18  SnidelyWhiplashStache
08/01/18  SugarMountain
08/24/18  sol (at 41)
08/31/18  JerseyGrrrl
08/??/18  Mr Mark
08/??/18  NorCalistache
08/??/18  Mogadishu
08/07/18  RunningWithScissors
09/01/18  Vegasgirl (at 49)
09/21/18  Ottawa
09/25/18  MaybeBabyMustache
09/30/18  SwissMiss
10/05/18  JumboShrimp
10/25/18  PhilB (at 52)
10/??/18  Fire1018
10/??/18  Happy
10/??/18  Irishtache
11/??/18  DeSteeg
11/??/18  Kris
12/21/18  LateStarter
12/31/18  DavidAnnArbor (at 53) (Won't renew my office lease)
12/??/18  EnjoyIt
12/??/18  yoda34
??/??/18  Blindsquirrel
??/??/18  FLStache
??/??/18  Michread
??/??/18  Minnesota_mom
??/??/18  MiserlyMiser
??/??/18  pecunia
??/??/18  Badblackgirl
??/??/18  Sofa King
??/??/19  RetireAbroadAt35  05/??/18, now OMY.
??/??/20  Gooki   2MY or 3MY

[/quote]

Trifle

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Re: 2018 FIRE cohort
« Reply #1608 on: May 04, 2018, 04:21:32 PM »
Just stopping by to say hi.  I have been planning on FIREing in early 2019, but today I came this close to quitting . . . [holds finger and thumb a millimeter apart].   I may yet be joining you as a 2018 club member.

Very inspired by all of you!!

 
« Last Edit: May 05, 2018, 06:09:46 AM by Trifele »

aperture

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Re: 2018 FIRE cohort
« Reply #1609 on: May 04, 2018, 06:03:05 PM »
... it was a bit surreal seeing my co-workers so stressed and running around in circles to mitigate invented crises, so emotionally invested in the outcomes. Up until a few days ago, that was me. In fact, I hadn't chatted with co-workers in awhile because I was constantly in meetings, responding to the fire drill of the hour, etc. At just a small remove, the idea of spending one's waking hours in that state seems somewhat ridiculous and sad. Though I expect to work again in some capacity, I don't want to go back to being that.

Loved reading this.  I spent my day today trying to finish a report that goes to the X+X committee so that they can make a decision on adding Y and Z to the alphabet soup.  The committee can decide without my report, but will not make a decision if the report is flawed - will just ask me to redo the report... "invented crisis"

It is surreal to know that in 8 short weeks I will no longer live this circus life, and some months after that I will no longer understand how I lived it for years.  I am raising my glass to the weekend, to all of us that will go back and do it all on Monday and to all of you that have escaped.  Best wishes, aperture.

Monkey Uncle

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Re: 2018 FIRE cohort
« Reply #1610 on: May 04, 2018, 06:36:18 PM »
... it was a bit surreal seeing my co-workers so stressed and running around in circles to mitigate invented crises, so emotionally invested in the outcomes. Up until a few days ago, that was me. In fact, I hadn't chatted with co-workers in awhile because I was constantly in meetings, responding to the fire drill of the hour, etc. At just a small remove, the idea of spending one's waking hours in that state seems somewhat ridiculous and sad. Though I expect to work again in some capacity, I don't want to go back to being that.

Loved reading this.  I spent my day today trying to finish a report that goes to the X+X committee so that they can make a decision on adding Y and Z to the alphabet soup.  The committee can decide without my report, but will not make a decision if the report is flawed - will just ask me to redo the report... "invented crisis"

It is surreal to know that in 8 short weeks I will no longer live this circus life, and some months after that I will no longer understand how I lived it for years.  I am raising my glass to the weekend, to all of us that will go back and do it all on Monday and to all of you that have escaped.  Best wishes, aperture.

At four months in, I can no longer conceive of ever doing the full-time professional career thing again.  If things go to hell in a handbasket, I'll find some way to make money, but it will not involve a full schedule of meetings, phone calls, emails, and hair-on-fire crises.

sol

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Re: 2018 FIRE cohort
« Reply #1611 on: May 05, 2018, 11:23:41 PM »
I gave notice this week.

It was stressful, before I did it.  It was a little scary, after it was over, but I'm feeling more relieved now.  I'm still processing.

All in all I don't think I handled it very well.  Going back to work on Monday could be weird, we'll have to see.  I don't think they can fire me without cause, but they could certainly try to make my remaining time very unpleasant.  I guess if that happens, I can always walk immediately instead of wrapping up my current projects and transitioning out smoothly later in the year.
 
« Last Edit: May 07, 2018, 08:36:40 AM by sol »

DavidAnnArbor

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Re: 2018 FIRE cohort
« Reply #1612 on: May 06, 2018, 06:54:55 AM »
I would think they would have some sorrow about not promoting you and therefore would not purposefully treat you badly in your remaining time.

Dicey

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Re: 2018 FIRE cohort
« Reply #1613 on: May 06, 2018, 08:49:31 AM »
No matter how you did it, the cat is out of the bag. Let the celebrating begin! So happy for you @sol!

Desert

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Re: 2018 FIRE cohort
« Reply #1614 on: May 06, 2018, 08:42:01 PM »
Hi!  I'm new here.  52 years old, giving notice tomorrow. 

FiveSigmas

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Re: 2018 FIRE cohort
« Reply #1615 on: May 06, 2018, 08:55:00 PM »
All in all I don't think I handled it very well.  Going back to work on Monday could be weird, we'll have to see.  I don't think they can fire me without cause, but they could certainly try to make my remaining time very unpleasant.  I guess if that happens, I can always walk immediately instead of wrapping up my current projects and transitioning out smoothly later in the year.
Is there any real reason why they'd go out of their way to be hostile to you, or is it just your lizard brain talking? From what you've said, it sounds like you conducted the whole thing pretty professionally. I could see things being a bit awkward for the next 3.5 months as they try and transition someone else in, but as long as you have work to do, I would hope they'd just let you do it?

Anyway, congrats on taking the big step.

Bateaux

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Re: 2018 FIRE cohort
« Reply #1616 on: May 06, 2018, 09:52:42 PM »
Good luck Sol.  Don't leave us.  We want details about how it goes. 

Monkey Uncle

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Re: 2018 FIRE cohort
« Reply #1617 on: May 07, 2018, 05:13:15 AM »
Hi!  I'm new here.  52 years old, giving notice tomorrow.

Welcome and congrats!

SwordGuy

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Re: 2018 FIRE cohort
« Reply #1618 on: May 07, 2018, 04:56:12 PM »
Mrs SwordGuy is now retired, and added Desert for sometime in May (assuming a 2 week notice).
(Edited to correct Desert's date.)


01/01/18  CowboyAndIndian (at 59) CONFIRMED
01/04/18  Gimesalot (at 33) CONFIRMED
01/06/18  Monkey Uncle (at 49) CONFIRMED
01/26/18  PizzaSteve (at 53) CONFIRMED
01/31/18  patches (at 33) CONFIRMED
01/31/18  Wintergreen78 CONFIRMED
01/31/18  MomCPA  CONFIRMED
02/01/18  DTaggart (at 40) CONFIRMED
02/05/18  Mrbeardedbigbucks CONFIRMED
02/09/18  JLTinVA (at 42) CONFIRMED
02/14/18  Gimesalot DH (at 40) CONFIRMED
02/28/18  Caoineag (at 36) CONFIRMED
03/01/18  Clean Shaven (at 45) CONFIRMED Part Time
03/02/18  brooklynguy (at 37) CONFIRMED
03/07/18  Aegishjalmur (at 35) CONFIRMED
03/16/18  Cherry Lane (at 43) CONFIRMED
03/27/18  Mrs. Honeyfill CONFIRMED
03/28/18  Target2018 CONFIRMED
03/28/18  homestead neohio (at 39) CONFIRMED
03/30/18  Moxie (at 58) CONFIRMED
03/31/18  msilenus (at 38) CONFIRMED
04/03/18  lostformars (at 38) CONFIRMED
04/04/18  OzBeach (at 54) CONFIRMED
04/25/18  Modernaimend DH (at 39) CONFIRMED
04/25/18  ZiziPB (at 50) CONFIRMED
04/26/18  NinetyFour (at 56) CONFIRMED
04/26/18  SwordGuy (at 60) PART TIME. (Just 1-2 months.)
04/27/18  poppydog and DW CONFIRMED
04/27/18  andkar CONFIRMED
04/??/18  PKate and DH
04/??/18  Calvin
04/??/18  FernFree
04/??/18  HappyMargo
04/??/18  Mother Fussbudget
05/01/18  wordnerd and DH (at 30 and 36) CONFIRMED
05/03/18  Modernaimend (at 35) CONFIRMED
05/08/18  SwordGuy DW (SwordGuy isn't saying.   He wants to live.) CONFIRMED
05/18/18  Desert
05/25/18  CheapskateWife (at 42) and CheapskateHubs (at 49)
05/25/18  Gyosho (at 55)
05/25/18  CodeZed
05/25/18  Acastus
05/??/18  Alim Nassor
06/01/18  Honeyfill  (at 60)
06/01/18  Markbike528CBX (at 53.5)
06/01/18  step_away
06/03/18  moneytaichi
06/15/18  DavisGang90 (at 49)
06/25/18  MaybeBabyMustache (at 42)
06/28/18  CHF (at 51)
06/29/18  aperture
06/??/18  Agent Rosenflower
06/??/18  dbtx
06/??/18  Omalley
06/??/18  randomgiraffe
06/??/18  SwissMiss
06/??/18  HenryDavid
07/??/18  AussieGirl
07/??/18  ChasesFish
07/??/18  Mr Griz
07/??/18  BackAndForth
07/??/18  cerat0n1a
07/??/18  Fresh Bread
07/??/18  SnidelyWhiplashStache
08/01/18  SugarMountain
08/24/18  sol (at 41)
08/31/18  JerseyGrrrl
08/??/18  Mr Mark
08/??/18  NorCalistache
08/??/18  Mogadishu
08/07/18  RunningWithScissors
09/01/18  Vegasgirl (at 49)
09/21/18  Ottawa
09/25/18  MaybeBabyMustache
09/30/18  SwissMiss
10/05/18  JumboShrimp
10/25/18  PhilB (at 52)
10/??/18  Fire1018
10/??/18  Happy
10/??/18  Irishtache
11/??/18  DeSteeg
11/??/18  Kris
12/21/18  LateStarter
12/31/18  DavidAnnArbor (at 53) (Won't renew my office lease)
12/??/18  EnjoyIt
12/??/18  yoda34
??/??/18  Blindsquirrel
??/??/18  FLStache
??/??/18  Michread
??/??/18  Minnesota_mom
??/??/18  MiserlyMiser
??/??/18  pecunia
??/??/18  Badblackgirl
??/??/18  Sofa King
??/??/19  RetireAbroadAt35  05/??/18, now OMY.
??/??/20  Gooki   2MY or 3MY

« Last Edit: May 07, 2018, 09:22:36 PM by SwordGuy »

Desert

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Re: 2018 FIRE cohort
« Reply #1619 on: May 07, 2018, 07:48:06 PM »
Hi!  I'm new here.  52 years old, giving notice tomorrow.

Welcome and congrats!

Thanks!  Looks like May 18 is my last day.  I am ready!

FernFree

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Re: 2018 FIRE cohort
« Reply #1620 on: May 08, 2018, 09:03:30 AM »
Well, I finally did it.  Gave notice to my boss last Friday and am targeting last day of 6/22 with 3 weeks of vacation to fit in between then and now.  I'm so excited, but it is now exponentially harder to get out of bed in the morning and get any work done!  I'm gonna have to dig deep to finish up strong and leave with good relations with everyone just in case I get bored in a year and/or the market crashes and I get scared. ;)

I haven't told my co-workers yet.  Was discussing what to tell them with my daughter last night and she got mad at me.  I was wanting to tell them I was taking a sabbatical or a leave of absence to not get in the whole retirement conversation, but why should I lie to them?  I guess I'll just be honest and maybe it will spark interest in others so they can up their savings rate and do the same.

I've purposely not made a lot of plans for after.  I just want to chill out and decompress and I'll have plenty of time for planning after.  That's another weird conversation that people can't seem to grasp.  lol

Vegasgirl

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Re: 2018 FIRE cohort
« Reply #1621 on: May 08, 2018, 09:57:30 AM »
@FernFree I feel your pain.  I've got 24 "working" days left until FIRE.  Officially Sept 1 but July 11 is actually my last day in the office.  I am dragging to get up and get to work and I'm only going in 3 days a week now but it's like torture!!

Desert

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Re: 2018 FIRE cohort
« Reply #1622 on: May 08, 2018, 07:40:02 PM »
Hi!  I'm new here.  52 years old, giving notice tomorrow.

Welcome and congrats!

Thanks!  Looks like May 18 is my last day.  I am ready!

My date was changed to May 11.  3 more days to freedom. 

CheapskateWife

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Re: 2018 FIRE cohort
« Reply #1623 on: May 09, 2018, 07:20:16 AM »
My date was changed to May 11.  3 more days to freedom.
Wooo!!


davisgang90

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Re: 2018 FIRE cohort
« Reply #1624 on: May 09, 2018, 08:55:35 AM »
Last Navy Physical Readiness Test is done and in the books. 

CheapskateWife

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Re: 2018 FIRE cohort
« Reply #1625 on: May 09, 2018, 09:51:42 AM »
Last Navy Physical Readiness Test is done and in the books.
I love that this is a milestone to track!  How did you do?  PT stud or preserving old joints?

My last PRT was my best score ever...because I'm an idiot who wanted to go out on a high note.  Stupid ego.

PhilB

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Re: 2018 FIRE cohort
« Reply #1626 on: May 09, 2018, 10:05:40 AM »
Had a call with my boss's boss trying to persuade me to stay on longer and my head is now in a real spin.  My original plan was July 2019, but I brought it forward to this October to avoid the lunacy accompanying a major project.  I've basically been offered the option to stay on a few months, just doing 9 to 5 from home so that they can have my input into calls.  They would also be up for any part time arrangement I suggested.  And would allow me to opt out of all corporate bullshit like performance management.

My stash is already calculated to give me a 25% increase on current spending or survive a significant downturn, so I don't need the money, but I can't deny that the thought of some extra is still attractive.  Against that, for tax efficiency I would need to stick all of it in the pension so wouldn't actually be able to touch any of it for over two years which makes it feel much less like real money.

If I was retiring in spring I'd definitely turn them down, but the months of November to March tend to be pretty grim weather wise so working through them would have less of a feeling of missing out (kids in school so can't follow the sun).  DW is definitely retiring in October though so I might get exceedingly jealous of her if I keep working.

I realise this is a very nice problem to have, but it's doing my head in when I thought I had this all settled.  Not expecting anyone to solve this for me - just wanted to vent to people who would understand.

markbike528CBX

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Re: 2018 FIRE cohort
« Reply #1627 on: May 09, 2018, 03:10:41 PM »
.....My stash is already calculated to give me a 25% increase on current spending or survive a significant downturn, so I don't need the money.......

There's your answer...   

Unless you're going to be making (pulling home) 10%+ of your stash, then you're wasting your time at work.    Your passive investments are likely to outstrip any W-2 wage that you'd get.

davisgang90

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Re: 2018 FIRE cohort
« Reply #1628 on: May 10, 2018, 03:15:04 AM »
Last Navy Physical Readiness Test is done and in the books.
I love that this is a milestone to track!  How did you do?  PT stud or preserving old joints?

My last PRT was my best score ever...because I'm an idiot who wanted to go out on a high note.  Stupid ego.
My goal was to pass.  I did!

PhilB

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Re: 2018 FIRE cohort
« Reply #1629 on: May 10, 2018, 03:57:49 AM »
.....My stash is already calculated to give me a 25% increase on current spending or survive a significant downturn, so I don't need the money.......

There's your answer...   

Unless you're going to be making (pulling home) 10%+ of your stash, then you're wasting your time at work.    Your passive investments are likely to outstrip any W-2 wage that you'd get.
In the words of the late Carrie Fisher:
https://getyarn.io/yarn-clip/a3044414-52a7-4d06-917f-8c6be59d977d

cerat0n1a

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Re: 2018 FIRE cohort
« Reply #1630 on: May 10, 2018, 03:59:34 AM »

My stash is already calculated to give me a 25% increase on current spending or survive a significant downturn, so I don't need the money, but I can't deny that the thought of some extra is still attractive.  Against that, for tax efficiency I would need to stick all of it in the pension so wouldn't actually be able to touch any of it for over two years which makes it feel much less like real money.

Quitting work in October is fairly advantageous in terms of the UK tax year - you've only been earning for 6 months and end up with a lower percentage tax take. To play devil's advocate - an extra few months pay might make no difference to how much you need to live, but it would be a decent chunk of kids' deposit for a house in 15-20 years time?

PhilB

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Re: 2018 FIRE cohort
« Reply #1631 on: May 10, 2018, 06:59:38 AM »

My stash is already calculated to give me a 25% increase on current spending or survive a significant downturn, so I don't need the money, but I can't deny that the thought of some extra is still attractive.  Against that, for tax efficiency I would need to stick all of it in the pension so wouldn't actually be able to touch any of it for over two years which makes it feel much less like real money.

Quitting work in October is fairly advantageous in terms of the UK tax year - you've only been earning for 6 months and end up with a lower percentage tax take. To play devil's advocate - an extra few months pay might make no difference to how much you need to live, but it would be a decent chunk of kids' deposit for a house in 15-20 years time?
Quitting at the end of October makes an awful lot of sense for me tax-wise as it's when I will hit the child benefit clawback band which is effectively another 18% tax on the next £10k earned.  I could dodge that by increasing pension contributions, but that will still get 40% tax as I'm probably going to breach the LTA.  More importantly, anything extra I put into the pension just vanishes amongst the investment volatility so psychologically it would feel like working for nothing.
The only way it could make any sense for me would be if I can shift some of the salary to the next tax year (when I will have no taxable income). 

I think I have recovered from my wobble.  I have told my employer I still intend to go end Oct, but given them a huge list of conditions before I'd even consider staying on part time for a bit - the main one of which is having tiny contracted hours so that I can build up a huge TOIL balance to be paid off in April in the new tax year.  Part of me would quite like to do 1 day a week, term time only, for the social contact, for the extra cash that I would feel allowed to blow on toys and not least so I don't have the hassle of having to buy my own laptop!

Oh, and I already have a reasonable amount for kids' house deposits as a separate item in the budget, and £10k pa to help them through Uni, and my budget makes no allowance for their current running costs every going away, etc, etc.  I know, I know.  I should JFDI!

SugarMountain

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Re: 2018 FIRE cohort
« Reply #1632 on: May 10, 2018, 10:47:06 AM »
Anybody else having mild panic attacks as their date draws closer? I find myself having a lot of negative thoughts about it.  We have plenty of money (should be at about 3.6% WR by end of July assuming the market stays about where it is), but there are many unknowns.  Lots of known knowns and known unknowns, but what about unknown unknowns?

Probably the two biggest concerns are health insurance from age 50-65 (or slightly later when medicare eligibility moves out a few years) and whether past is truly prelude.  The 20th century is when most of the data for simulations and the Trinity study are from and it was the century of American exceptionalism.  I do not have optimistic feelings that this will be true in the 21st century.

I can definitely see where it's easy to get pulled in by the siren song of OMY.

sol

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Re: 2018 FIRE cohort
« Reply #1633 on: May 10, 2018, 10:59:48 AM »
By my unofficial count, subtracting weekends and holidays and scheduled vacations, I have 42 more cubicle days left.

I'm not having panic attacks about money, but I do have mild anxiety over having enough hours in those 42 days to finish the work I want to do before I leave.  I have projects to wrap up, science to do, and reports to write.  I'm afraid I'm going to have to leave some things hanging, which is not how I wanted to go out.  Suddenly, the sum total of my professional accomplishments has a sharply defined maximum limit.  That's the upsetting part for me, not any concerns about what comes next.

CheapskateWife

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Re: 2018 FIRE cohort
« Reply #1634 on: May 10, 2018, 11:03:32 AM »
@Desert goes tomorrow? 

So excited because we're next!!!!!The panic over unfinished projects is subsiding...my co-workers are taking the reins, and coming to ask me questions when they need the support.  Basically perfect.

@PKate , @Calvin , @FernFree , @HappyMargo , @Mother Fussbudget , please check in and tell us how you are doing!

sui generis

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Re: 2018 FIRE cohort
« Reply #1635 on: May 10, 2018, 11:05:37 AM »
The 20th century is when most of the data for simulations and the Trinity study are from and it was the century of American exceptionalism.  I do not have optimistic feelings that this will be true in the 21st century.


I agree, but that's only a problem if you don't invest in international index funds and/or you believe that the entire human race is going to be less profitable/productive than the 20th century, right? 

brooklynguy

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Re: 2018 FIRE cohort
« Reply #1636 on: May 10, 2018, 12:53:46 PM »
Friendly public service announcement:  Be aware that Vanguard does not accept the funding of 401k rollovers via ACH transfer, despite assurances to the contrary (and erroneous bank routing instructions) given to me by a representative from Vanguard's "asset transfer specialist" department.  If you plan to roll over 401k funds to a Vanguard IRA, make sure to do so by instructing your 401k plan administrator to cut a physical check, even if they offer the option of ACH funding.

My entire 401k balance was transferred over two weeks ago per the erroneous instructions I received from Vanguard, and in that time neither Vanguard nor my 401k plan administrator has been able to locate the funds or provide any definitive answer as to when or if the funds will be returned to me.  I'm trying not to get overly stressed about the fact that a sizable portion of my portfolio is effectively missing, or the comparatively minor problem that I am missing out on any market gains in the meantime (which is precisely the risk I sought to minimize in the first place by conducting my rollover via ACH transfer instead of paper check and snail mail), but I figured I'd warn the cohort lest others find themselves in the same boat.

SugarMountain

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Re: 2018 FIRE cohort
« Reply #1637 on: May 10, 2018, 01:10:55 PM »
The 20th century is when most of the data for simulations and the Trinity study are from and it was the century of American exceptionalism.  I do not have optimistic feelings that this will be true in the 21st century.


I agree, but that's only a problem if you don't invest in international index funds and/or you believe that the entire human race is going to be less profitable/productive than the 20th century, right?

I do have some money in international funds and global corporations.  I don't think the entire human race is going to be less profitable/productive than in the 20th century, but the growth rate certainly could slow, and that's why 20th century US stock returns were ~7% annually in real terms. Productivity growth slows even a bit and that brings the rate of return over inflation down significantly.  The issue with "emerging market" stocks is they may increase returns but will also increase variance.

But, the point of my post was not to debate whether there will be growth in the market, it was more about worrying about retiring for 40+ years and general uncertaintanty in the lead up to ER and how others deal with it.  Maybe I'm the only one who is getting close to the edge of the cliff (2.5 months) and am not certain about making the leap, but I doubt it.

sui generis

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Re: 2018 FIRE cohort
« Reply #1638 on: May 10, 2018, 01:30:33 PM »
The 20th century is when most of the data for simulations and the Trinity study are from and it was the century of American exceptionalism.  I do not have optimistic feelings that this will be true in the 21st century.


I agree, but that's only a problem if you don't invest in international index funds and/or you believe that the entire human race is going to be less profitable/productive than the 20th century, right?

I do have some money in international funds and global corporations.  I don't think the entire human race is going to be less profitable/productive than in the 20th century, but the growth rate certainly could slow, and that's why 20th century US stock returns were ~7% annually in real terms. Productivity growth slows even a bit and that brings the rate of return over inflation down significantly.  The issue with "emerging market" stocks is they may increase returns but will also increase variance.

But, the point of my post was not to debate whether there will be growth in the market, it was more about worrying about retiring for 40+ years and general uncertaintanty in the lead up to ER and how others deal with it.  Maybe I'm the only one who is getting close to the edge of the cliff (2.5 months) and am not certain about making the leap, but I doubt it.
Well, I'll be almost 7 months behind you, so I'm probably not experiencing the uncertainty to the same degree you are, but just last night I did have a freak out about it.  I worry about my pension system collapsing (it's solid right now, but you know what they say about pension systems), healthcare (also an American, so a more unique worry), the stock market, and of course there are innumerable other uncertainties.  I don't pretend to have the right answer, but I made a value judgment about these things (including the unknown unknowns) several months ago when I decided I'd pull the plug on 2/15/19, after careful consideration.  No new information has come to light (although the unknown unknowns continue to be unknown) and there's no indication that I failed to consider important information, so I decided (or am still trying to decide by telling myself) there's no actual reason to change the judgment I made then.  It seems to me that unless one of those things is true, the uncertainty is a natural human emotion to deal with but not a reason to OMY or actually change any other plans.  For me, I'm trying to treat and accept the uncertainty and other emotions, but not in a way that will allow them to hijack my plans, until and unless I learn that my original decision may have been flawed in some way.

PhilB

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Re: 2018 FIRE cohort
« Reply #1639 on: May 10, 2018, 02:39:13 PM »
The 20th century is when most of the data for simulations and the Trinity study are from and it was the century of American exceptionalism.  I do not have optimistic feelings that this will be true in the 21st century.


I agree, but that's only a problem if you don't invest in international index funds and/or you believe that the entire human race is going to be less profitable/productive than the 20th century, right?

I do have some money in international funds and global corporations.  I don't think the entire human race is going to be less profitable/productive than in the 20th century, but the growth rate certainly could slow, and that's why 20th century US stock returns were ~7% annually in real terms. Productivity growth slows even a bit and that brings the rate of return over inflation down significantly.  The issue with "emerging market" stocks is they may increase returns but will also increase variance.

But, the point of my post was not to debate whether there will be growth in the market, it was more about worrying about retiring for 40+ years and general uncertaintanty in the lead up to ER and how others deal with it.  Maybe I'm the only one who is getting close to the edge of the cliff (2.5 months) and am not certain about making the leap, but I doubt it.
Well, I'll be almost 7 months behind you, so I'm probably not experiencing the uncertainty to the same degree you are, but just last night I did have a freak out about it.  I worry about my pension system collapsing (it's solid right now, but you know what they say about pension systems), healthcare (also an American, so a more unique worry), the stock market, and of course there are innumerable other uncertainties.  I don't pretend to have the right answer, but I made a value judgment about these things (including the unknown unknowns) several months ago when I decided I'd pull the plug on 2/15/19, after careful consideration.  No new information has come to light (although the unknown unknowns continue to be unknown) and there's no indication that I failed to consider important information, so I decided (or am still trying to decide by telling myself) there's no actual reason to change the judgment I made then.  It seems to me that unless one of those things is true, the uncertainty is a natural human emotion to deal with but not a reason to OMY or actually change any other plans.  For me, I'm trying to treat and accept the uncertainty and other emotions, but not in a way that will allow them to hijack my plans, until and unless I learn that my original decision may have been flawed in some way.
All I can do is share what helps me deal with those fears.  What percentage reduction in spending could you weather for a year or two and still have a better time than if you were working?  Think about all the things you are looking forward to doing that cost diddly squat.  Imagine taking a year to concentrate on them while the markets recover.  How much fun would you have in that year?

SugarMountain

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Re: 2018 FIRE cohort
« Reply #1640 on: May 10, 2018, 02:58:54 PM »
The 20th century is when most of the data for simulations and the Trinity study are from and it was the century of American exceptionalism.  I do not have optimistic feelings that this will be true in the 21st century.


I agree, but that's only a problem if you don't invest in international index funds and/or you believe that the entire human race is going to be less profitable/productive than the 20th century, right?

I do have some money in international funds and global corporations.  I don't think the entire human race is going to be less profitable/productive than in the 20th century, but the growth rate certainly could slow, and that's why 20th century US stock returns were ~7% annually in real terms. Productivity growth slows even a bit and that brings the rate of return over inflation down significantly.  The issue with "emerging market" stocks is they may increase returns but will also increase variance.

But, the point of my post was not to debate whether there will be growth in the market, it was more about worrying about retiring for 40+ years and general uncertaintanty in the lead up to ER and how others deal with it.  Maybe I'm the only one who is getting close to the edge of the cliff (2.5 months) and am not certain about making the leap, but I doubt it.
Well, I'll be almost 7 months behind you, so I'm probably not experiencing the uncertainty to the same degree you are, but just last night I did have a freak out about it.  I worry about my pension system collapsing (it's solid right now, but you know what they say about pension systems), healthcare (also an American, so a more unique worry), the stock market, and of course there are innumerable other uncertainties.  I don't pretend to have the right answer, but I made a value judgment about these things (including the unknown unknowns) several months ago when I decided I'd pull the plug on 2/15/19, after careful consideration.  No new information has come to light (although the unknown unknowns continue to be unknown) and there's no indication that I failed to consider important information, so I decided (or am still trying to decide by telling myself) there's no actual reason to change the judgment I made then.  It seems to me that unless one of those things is true, the uncertainty is a natural human emotion to deal with but not a reason to OMY or actually change any other plans.  For me, I'm trying to treat and accept the uncertainty and other emotions, but not in a way that will allow them to hijack my plans, until and unless I learn that my original decision may have been flawed in some way.
All I can do is share what helps me deal with those fears.  What percentage reduction in spending could you weather for a year or two and still have a better time than if you were working?  Think about all the things you are looking forward to doing that cost diddly squat.  Imagine taking a year to concentrate on them while the markets recover.  How much fun would you have in that year?

Great points, thanks.  We could weather a huge reduction in spending.  I wonder if some of the fear is "fear of missing out" on what additional money could by.  I think psychologically the shift from accumulation to withdrawing phase is on my mind right now, possibly because I've been looking at withdrawal strategies a lot lately.

Ironically, freaking big data at facebook is inside my head and I just had this sponsored listcicle clickbait show up on my feed.  It's not horrible and to save you the clicks, here it is:

21-unvarnished-truths-about-retirement (Some are less about retirement than life in general. Put 'em on posters with photos of beaches and mountains and you've got yourself a side gig selling them.)

1. Even though you are retired, you don’t have enough time for everything. Everyone dies with things in their inbox. Do the best you can and live your definition of a full life.

2. Be curious. See both sides. Stubbornness is not strength. When given new information, strong people develop and evolve their opinions. We can grow when we can admit we are wrong. Your life stagnates when you are wrong, but you refuse to admit it.

3. Negativity wastes life. Being positive and optimistic in the present has a favorable impact on the future. Yes, bad things happen, but so do good ones, and we tend to steer toward the things on which concentrate.

4. You don’t have to wait for an apology to forgive. We have all been wronged at one time or another. Waiting for an apology from someone who may never give offer one is a waste of life. Who cares? Hell, if this is a gray area and it’s possible the other person is waiting for an apology from you, apologize first. What does it matter? Life is too precious to play those kind of games.

5. It is okay to fail. Failure is part of life even in retirement. Failure teaches valuable lessons. In fact, we learn more from our failures than our successes. Expect success, but don’t worry about it too much. It is the journey that matters.

6. Take care of yourself. You aren’t much use to yourself or anyone else if you don’t. Looking out for your health and happiness is not the same as being selfish. This is fundamental.

7. Ambition can be a killer. I hate to break it to you, but you aren’t going to be Number One in everything you do. Breathe, and be satisfied, with the act of living today. Don’t let blind ambition cause you to lose sight of what is important. Savour all of life’s moments, even the bad ones, because you only get so many and you may wish you had paid more attention.

8. Your aspirations mean nothing. Well, they mean nothing if you don’t make an effort to realize them. Take action to get the things you want.

9. Stop complaining. Most people don’t care about your problems; some are happy you have them. Complaining only serves to keep negatives at the center of your life.

10. Let it go. Everyone has regrets, but don’t live a life of sorrow. The past is gone; find a way to come to terms with it. You may be able to reverse a bad situation that haunts you from the past, but you can’t turn back time.

11. You can’t make people happy. You can listen. You can be kind. You can smile. You can respect. You can offer assistance. You can contribute tools. But people are responsible for their own happiness (see No. 9).

12. You get to choose what matters. You didn’t get this far to keep jumping through other people’s hoops. Don’t forget the importance of yourself.

13. You are responsible. You may not be at fault for what happens, but you get to choose how you respond to everything. Yes, everything. Your response to anything is a choice. You are response-able.

14. Go with your feelings. You don’t have to intellectualize or justify everything you want to do. It is okay to do things solely because you want to. Take dance lessons. Learn to play the zither. Who cares about the critics? You have earned it.

15. Comfort is overrated. The magic in life takes place at the edges of our comfort zones. Memories are made by pushing yourself and trying new things. Challenging yourself and growing your boundaries is more rewarding than security and comfort.

16. Your bucket list is crap. Putting things on a bucket list can be just another way of deferring your aspirations. Sure, go ahead and make a list but remember: life goes on while you are making plans. Lists are useless unless we utilize them.

17. Stop searching for happiness. The only place you can be happy is in the present. Stop chasing tomorrow and fully experience happiness today.

18. Time is your most valuable asset. You only get so much, and that is it. You can’t horde it. You can’t get it back. You can’t turn back the clock. The best you can do is to start investing your time wisely.

19. Money is overrated. Money is a tool. To see it as anything else is folly. Yes, we all need some, but money is a means to an end, not an end in itself. Spend wisely and remember; superfluous wealth only buys superfluities.

20. In the end, we are all dead. Make that phone call or send an email to let someone know you are thinking of him or her. Better yet, go visit. Mend fences, hug, show appreciation, be kind to people. Don’t be complacent; you never know when the people you thought would be there forever will be gone.

21. We ain’t gettin’ out of this alive. With retirement, you have more time to do things you love, but the extra time is wasted unless you are using it productively and actually living your dreams. The road doesn’t go on forever.

Monkey Uncle

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Re: 2018 FIRE cohort
« Reply #1641 on: May 10, 2018, 06:43:19 PM »
Friendly public service announcement:  Be aware that Vanguard does not accept the funding of 401k rollovers via ACH transfer, despite assurances to the contrary (and erroneous bank routing instructions) given to me by a representative from Vanguard's "asset transfer specialist" department.  If you plan to roll over 401k funds to a Vanguard IRA, make sure to do so by instructing your 401k plan administrator to cut a physical check, even if they offer the option of ACH funding.

My entire 401k balance was transferred over two weeks ago per the erroneous instructions I received from Vanguard, and in that time neither Vanguard nor my 401k plan administrator has been able to locate the funds or provide any definitive answer as to when or if the funds will be returned to me.  I'm trying not to get overly stressed about the fact that a sizable portion of my portfolio is effectively missing, or the comparatively minor problem that I am missing out on any market gains in the meantime (which is precisely the risk I sought to minimize in the first place by conducting my rollover via ACH transfer instead of paper check and snail mail), but I figured I'd warn the cohort lest others find themselves in the same boat.

Yikes, that's scary.  I hope the funds turn up very soon!

2Birds1Stone

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Re: 2018 FIRE cohort
« Reply #1642 on: May 10, 2018, 06:44:53 PM »
@brooklynguy , that was my biggest fear when rolling an old employers 401k into my current one......my fingers are crossed that you get a positive outcome asap.

Desert

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Re: 2018 FIRE cohort
« Reply #1643 on: May 10, 2018, 08:08:44 PM »
@Desert goes tomorrow? 

So excited because we're next!!!!!The panic over unfinished projects is subsiding...my co-workers are taking the reins, and coming to ask me questions when they need the support.  Basically perfect.

@PKate , @Calvin , @FernFree , @HappyMargo , @Mother Fussbudget , please check in and tell us how you are doing!

Yes!  One more day.  I'm so happy to hear about your upcoming exit! 

DavidAnnArbor

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Re: 2018 FIRE cohort
« Reply #1644 on: May 10, 2018, 08:16:36 PM »
Wow brooklynguy that's incredible. I can't believe how Vanguard could be that unhelpful. Also, try posting in Bogleheads forum for any advice.

Dicey

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Re: 2018 FIRE cohort
« Reply #1645 on: May 11, 2018, 03:33:32 AM »
Great list, @ SugarMountain! Thank you for cleaning it up and sharing it.

MaybeBabyMustache

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Re: 2018 FIRE cohort
« Reply #1646 on: May 12, 2018, 08:32:39 AM »
I've been offered an opportunity to take on a part time coaching & training/development role at work (in addition to my full time role). This is an area I'm hoping to explore as a post-work passion point, so I'm pretty excited about the opportunity. That said, it's a 1 year commitment, and I can only do it while I'm doing my current job. So, I'm 90% sure I'm moving out of the 2018 cohort. Most likely new FIRE date is June 2019.

JumboShrimp

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Re: 2018 FIRE cohort
« Reply #1647 on: May 12, 2018, 07:10:53 PM »
I am a little confused about the roth thing. I do not have one, as for some reason I thought I could not make contributions but after doing some reading maybe my understanding was wrong. So for 2018 I am trying to figure out if it makes sense to start one up. Can anyone tell me what numbers I should be looking at to figure this out?

And what should I be thinking about for 2019 and beyond?


aperture

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Re: 2018 FIRE cohort
« Reply #1648 on: May 12, 2018, 07:26:34 PM »
I am a little confused about the roth thing. I do not have one, as for some reason I thought I could not make contributions but after doing some reading maybe my understanding was wrong. So for 2018 I am trying to figure out if it makes sense to start one up. Can anyone tell me what numbers I should be looking at to figure this out?

And what should I be thinking about for 2019 and beyond?

Hey JumboShrimp, great question, but likely to get lost in the 2018 cohort thread.  Suggest you pose your question under Investor Alley https://forum.mrmoneymustache.com/investor-alley/   You may be able to find an answer by searching there a bit.  Best wishes, aperture. 
« Last Edit: May 12, 2018, 07:52:38 PM by aperture »

chasesfish

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Re: 2018 FIRE cohort
« Reply #1649 on: May 13, 2018, 06:32:00 AM »
Ladies and Gentlemen...I'm going to have to officially move my date out to March of 2019.  Depending on company stock performance (restricted that comes released) and annual bonus, working an additional nine months is worth between $250,000 and $300,000.  The combination of a good deferred comp plan plus splitting that amount of pay over two tax years means I get to keep most of it (yay!).

I just can't turn down a 10-15% increase in our net worth/SWR for something like 7 1/2 months worth of work once I factor in vacation time/holidays, ect.  Half the time I can Peter Gibbons it