Life After Financial Independence: How Life Changed After Retiring Early
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It’s been thirteen years since 2012, and I want to share some insights on life post-financial independence, which I first wrote about eight years after retiring early.
Before cutting off my regular income, I was anxious about whether it was the right financial move. What I’ve learned is that we are both adaptable and resourceful. No one here would hesitate to take a minimum wage job if needed, help a family member, or hustle to make ends meet. You’ll always find a way to manage, so there’s no need to worry.
Here are the three key lessons I’ve learned since achieving financial independence:
1) You change for the better.
Financial security doesn’t just mean you can finally tell off a micromanager or a high school bully. It makes you more empathetic toward others’ struggles because your own insecurities diminish once you reach your goals. Despite my website growing significantly, I’ve noticed fewer comments per post, which may be because I now spend more time listening and responding thoughtfully, rather than stirring the pot as I used to.
2) Financial independence is just one stop.
Life is like a gripping mystery novel—you wouldn’t want to miss the climax because that’s where you expect the excitement. However, the true thrill is usually in the middle, amidst the struggles. Realizing there’s always a “Volume 2” helps you appreciate the journey and prepare for new challenges. For me, the past seven years of being a father have been the most challenging and rewarding.
3) Helping others brings the greatest joy.
Once financially independent, making money can start to feel like a game. It’s fun to explore new income-generating ideas, but the real joy comes from making a difference. After ten years of retirement, I’ve realized that true, lasting happiness comes from using wealth to support causes you care about.
My aim is to help as many people as possible achieve financial independence. Access to education shouldn’t be limited by financial barriers, and I hope to keep providing valuable content that’s accessible to all.
Life after financial independence is truly rewarding. The sacrifices you make today are worth it, and even waking up at 5 am to work on side hustles before your day job pays off. You don’t need to have retired to live a good life—flexibility in how you earn can greatly enhance your quality of life.
To those aiming for financial independence, keep tracking your finances and consider using tools like Empower to manage your money better. Knowing where you stand financially can help build wealth in the long run.
If you’re considering early retirement, try to negotiate a severance package. Leaving a job with a financial cushion can give you the freedom to enjoy your independence without stress.
Keep striving for financial independence—it’s a journey worth every effort.
