Why the FIRE Movement doesn't work (Financial Independence, Retire Early)

Ex-Google TechLead on the FIRE movement.
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[@TechLead]

Join me in DeFi Pro and make passive income with crypto. defipro.dev/

[@bostinbybit]

Inflation won't be an ongoing issue for much longer and you should know that. Are you intentionally trying to lose viewers?

[@NWforager]

Dad said "Stop it . Get some help. "

[@vongmanu4419]

Ok dude you are already a millionaire you won in life and you should do something meaningfull with your time. Go get some land to farm, hunt and fish. Go back to the roots. Technology is making people so sick. Also you are better off to get as self sufficient as possible in these times and it gives you some sense of security. If there is one limited resource on this earth then its land.

[@HouseGuide]

McDonald's Soylord, Inflation will always be an ongoing issue as it has always been and YOU SHOULD KNOW THAT. Inflation has never ever been stopped. My great grandfather bought a home in 1960 for $25,000. Today that home is 1.5 million. If you were living on 1960 interest, or income, your money would be worth nothing today. Pension funds do not have cost of living increases. Bank interest is always way below inflation. Retiree's and people are then forced to gamble in investments which often times results in disaster.

[@niks1life]

You think life is basically over at 40/50? 😂 You’ll be 40 in a few years and according to you, you’ll be elderly. 😂 What do you do for fun in Sin City?

[@Casey-summer]

Retirement becomes truly fulfilling when you possess two essential elements: ample financial resources and a meaningful purpose in life. Make prudent investment choices to secure good returns and ensure a comfortable retirement.

[@Gallo-firestone]

Rising prices have affected my intention of retiring at 62, working part-time, and building my savings. I'm worried about whether individuals who weathered the 2008 financial crisis found it less challenging than my current situation. The stock market's volatility, coupled with a reduced income, is making me anxious about having enough for retirement.

[@BaileyHoward101]

One crucial aspect of earning profits from stocks is to avoid being frightened and selling them prematurely. It is vital to understand that stocks should not be treated as mere lottery tickets. Consider acquiring the assistance of a financial advisor to navigate your investments.

[@mellon-wrigley3]

You are completely right, Advisors have information and paths that are not disclosed to the public.. I profited £560k in 2022 under the tutelage of my Fiduciary-counselor. Am I selling? Absolutely not.. I am going to sit back and observe how this all plays out.

[@lilyhershey1]

​ *@heathermellon7826* I've been thinking about going that route. I have a lot of stocks that I have maintained, but they are beginning to lose value, so I'm not sure if I should hold onto them or sell them. I feel hiring your investment coach would make it easier to restructure my portfolio.

[@mellon-wrigley3]

Gertrude Margaret Quinto, is the licensed advisor I use. Just research the name. You’d find necessary details to work with a correspondence to set up an appointment.

[@LegDayLas]

FIRE is more about the FI than the RE. It's about having enough money that on paper you COULD retire early. It removes the stress of needing to work to survive, leaving you working because you enjoy it.

[@jasonodom9277]

I agree - I think if you come from poverty and also if you are experiencing grueling awful jobs then the attainment of FI or FIRE is unbelievably appealing and motivating

[@aluisious]

I don't fucking enjoy working. Not my job. I do it for the money, period.

[@LegDayLas]

@@aluisious Most people doing FIRE don't enjoy the job they currently do for money. They do however have a job they know they will like but know it doesn't put food on the table. When hey reach FIRE they do the job they want, not the job they need.

[@James_36]

@@LegDayLas the sad thing for me is, I cannot think of one job I would enjoy - the things I enjoy are a cost.... i simply do not get this job enjoyment talk? maybe it is just me

[@krneki6954]

@@aluisiousyou dont enjoy your job. but there are other things u surely love to do.

[@Raymondjohn2]

I'm a single, 43-year-old father who resides in Hamburg. If everything continues to go well for me, I intend to retire at age 50. I couldn't be happier right now than I am that I just bought my first house last month. I'm so happy that I made wise choices that altered my life forever.

[@TheJackCain-84]

Salutations, dude. At your age, you're doing extremely well. I'm 54 years old, and right now my finances are a mess. Any helpful advice would be greatly appreciated in helping to mold my life. I want to buy a home of my own.

[@martingiavarini]

It seems like I used the FIRE movement to manage my finances. Investigate it further by doing some research. With the help of a financial professional, they were then successful when investing in stocks, cryptocurrencies, and real estate.

[@bob.weaver72]

I’ve been down a ton, I’m only holding on so I can recoup, I really need help, who is this investment-adviser that guides you?

[@martingiavarini]

Carol Vivian Constable is the licensed fiduciary I use. Just research the name. You’d find necessary details to work with a correspondence to set up an appointment..

[@bob.weaver72]

She appears to be well-educated and well-read. I ran an online search on her name and came across her website; thank you for sharing.

[@RamaSivamani]

I think many people misuse or misunderstand FIRE. It does not mean you HAVE to retire early but rather you set yourself up so that financially you could. This way if you choose to continue it is for reasons other than money. The focus of your work can then shift to doing work that has meaning and gives you intrinsic rewards rather than then paycheck being the main factor. FIRE does not mean not working but that you can now decouple work and money, and choose work that you do purely for how meaningful the work is regardless of how much it pays you.

[@marcusaureliusregulus2833]

Exactly

[@e.0138]

Very helpful comments 👍

[@AlphaCrucis]

@@dongerinoduck7517 I think the difference is that most people don't aim for early financial independence so they aren't as conscious of what they are doing with their money, not tracking how much they are spending on what, increasing their spending as their income increases, not investing it, etc. so that at some point much sooner than usual, a high paying job is no longer needed.

[@manuelweichelt528]

But even then you still have oportunity costs (for example carreer options are gone)

[@archvaldor]

@@dongerinoduck7517 "So at the end FIRE was about working hard and earning a lot of money?" Say you want to write a book, make some music or start a youtube channel. Most people don't have time for that because they have to work. With financial independence you can do those things without putting you or your dependents in financial danger: it is "work" but meaningful, enjoyable work.

[@greekbarrios]

I’d be retiring/working much less in 5 years and curious to know best how people split their pay, how much of it goes into savings, spendings or investments. I earn around $180k per year, but nothing to show for it yet

[@Curbalnk]

its not late to consider financial planning, never can tell what the future holds

[@Shultz4334]

A lot of folks downplay our lives because we don't earn 7 figure salaries but we always end up good in retirement. i recall needing a good strategy to plan for retirement, hence I got privy to the services of a true market strategist who helped rejuvenate my $700k portfolio and boost performance and returns by 90% in a little over four years.

[@blaquopaque]

@@Shultz4334 There has been so much knowledge shared here on this channel, I'm at a crossroads with my portfolio and would like to see it grow in view of retirement. How can I reach this expert?

[@Shultz4334]

Can't divulge much but 'Monica Selena Park' deserves credit for my investing success as one of the finest financial planners out there, you should look her up to be able to locate her online if you are internet-savvy.

[@kashkat987]

I find this informative, just came across the site of Monica Selena Park after inputting her full name on my browser, she seems impeccable.. thanks for sharing!

[@AlexTheGamer97]

It’s so comforting to make enough money to live extremely comfortably but not have the desire to have way too much of it

[@agi1013]

100% agree

[@moneymakingappswebsites]

People are not calculating FIRE properly. You need to have dividends or income flowing from your portfolio of at least equal or preferably 2x your monthly expenses. You should not be touching the capital at all! If you need to touch the capital, you then become dependent on the stock market fluctuations. Just because your portfolio is worth £1,000,000 today DOES NOT mean it will be worth £1,000,000 tomorrow, but dividend yield tend not to fluctuate too much.

[@BRAINBABBOTT-2233_]

Hi! I’m excited to be here in your channel and I’m interested in learning more about investing and saving up for my retirement but am a little confused about the whole process. Any advice or tips to get me started up would be greatly appreciated.

[@PriyasagM]

Gold and copper remains the best investment to venture in, especially as a beginner, it’s not always affected by the downturn of the market

[@warringtontoni]

​@@PriyasagMI don’t rust them. They all gamble about the same thing which they are not even sure of. It's a waste of time

[@NaomiRhodes-001]

I won't recommend gold and coop although it's a good investment. I'II suggest digital assets as it's the best future investment. It's advisable to seek financial assistance based on your available capital and area of interest or preference.

[@BRAINBABBOTT-2233_]

True. Am not ready to gamble my money with anyone. That's sick, am looking at spending my savings and I can't afford to lose it.

[@trungdubais1767]

That's absolutely correct. I find Patricia strain as the best fit for the job. She's a well seasoned financial aid with years of experience

[@themark462]

10:48 reach age 40 or 50 and their life is pretty much over. Wow… just hit 40 and have plenty of life left in me, I assure you

[@adrianbardan782]

it's a big deal not 'having to' wake up to go to work for 80% of your day. it's a big deal being able to buy the next gadget or toy that you don't have to save up for. it's a big deal to be able to follow what you're passionate about in life without needing that to also be profitable to pay your bills. so yeah, FIRE it up! until you can live FREE!

[@sarahdrewery7861]

I have a question. Doesn't FIRE buy you the most important thing of all: time? I don't really like spending my time doing things that make money. Examples of non profitable things could be: spending time with your family / partner; spending time in nature; reading novels; cooking nice food for myself. Isn't that what people want from FIRE?

[@mrmacmiggles]

Exactly! I feel like he misunderstands FIRE, because he doesn't have to worry about money or a job he hates or whether or not he can take time off. He already has money so I guess he doesn't understand why someone would want money.

[@skidoojosey6037]

It seems easier to just get a job that you. I like my job, it’s pretty interesting and all my friends work there too. I think if I retired early, I would just find some other way to make money to have something to do.

[@DanielPMBA]

Techlead is a lost soul. Look thru his crypto videos and u will be wondering "are people speculating crypto risking their life savings for fun? Or they wanna make 10000% return to retire the grind and do whatever they please?" Maybe not going to the beach but be your own boss perhaps. So whether FIRE or Crypto can get you there, one takes longer but less risky. The other goes up and down 80% each time. I like steady growth don't you? Maybe techlead is more of a gambler instinct, need to YOLO and win in an instant, cannot wait. I dunno.

[@shugyosha7924]

Yeah this video is true but mostly misses the point. FIRE is about the freedom to not have to spend most of your time paying the rent.

[@jimj2683]

He purposely misunderstands FIRE so he can make people click on his video out of fear/curiosity. It also angers people so they comment more on his videos which just makes the video even more popular.

[@facuandespesca6082]

I believe that FIRE is not about owning material stuff and having a luxury life, it's different for each person but it's about enjoying your pasive income without worrying about the next paycheck. Thanks for sharing!

[@BennyOcean]

There's a modified version called "fat FIRE" which is basically just getting a bigger number so you can live large in retirement. Like 5-10 million instead of 1-2 million.

[@Ziegfried82]

@@BennyOcean that doesn't sound attainable for most people. Getting 5-10 million is simply out of reach for the vast majority even if they work 60 hours til age 65.

[@mynameismyname8366]

@@Ziegfried82 You don't gain financial independence working a 9-5 job alone. This is more about passive income

[@Ziegfried82]

@@mynameismyname8366 I wasn't saying 9-5. I was saying 7am-7pm 6 days a week. I can tell you as someone who actually makes 6 figures that it's not so easy to turn 1 million into 5 million let alone 10. Very few people are capable of doing that before retirement age or at all really. And anyone selling you a "strategy" to do this is likely full of it.

[@661.julian4]

@@BennyOcean Thats a horrible idea to live large in your old years. Why not live now when you’re 20,30,or 40? If you inflate your lifestyle with material goods, you will go broke a few years after retirement. Also, your body will get weaker, meaning you might not be able to enjoy daily life.

[@fiveleavesleft6521]

I think it really comes down to the existential question of what really matters in life. "Climb the social hierarchy". Why? You say living on a beach is boring but there are places you can live on a beach, dive, surf, run or go up into the mountains hiking, wild camping, rock climbing etc. You can join groups for various hobbies and activities, learn a language etc. Beats slaving away pointlessly climbing the social hierarchy.

[@loiczh7120]

I think the fire movement is more about liberty than luxury apartments nor fancy foods. The liberty to have your time rather than the need to borrow it for money.

[@jjede]

This video felt like he didn't fully understand what FIRE is. He said it was about why FIRE doesn't work...and then gave all the same reasons people say FIRE *does* work. Not needing luxury brands, reducing spending, recognizing WHY you actually need money...

[@domjervis]

@@jjede 100% agree. This guy has NO Clue! Bailed out less than four minutes in. Life is just too short to waste precious time on such blather. BTW, retired nine years ago, just before turning 56. Been loving life ever since.

[@stevenponte6655]

I agree he went off topic, but his point about massive inflation and low stick market is interesting. I’m wondering how it is affecting fire

[@baum9048]

​@@jjedei consider myself extremly lucky that i never gave a f about what clothes that i wear as long as they arent complete sh or luxury brands like gucci (which is just for popr people wanting others to think they are rich anyway)

[@splinefusion6986]

"The liberty to have your time" beginning when, exactly, in your finite lifecycle? There is also balance, and I think that's what I heard in this discussion.

[@gonzalooviedo5435]

definitly a point of view to evaluate, thanks!. Greetings from Chile

[@MariaGarcia-gv8hj]

Now I have more knowledge about personal finance. I just subscribed to your channel. Big ups to everyone working effortlessly trying to earn a living while building wealth in this recession. I’m 45 and my husband is 51, we are both retired, no debts. We are planning on relocating to Thailand. We are currently living a frugal and financially savvy lifestyle and generating passive income even during this recessionary period. Our commitment to saving and investing in the financial market has enabled us to maintain this lifestyle and continue earning monthly passively through investment:

[@lovetypauline6530]

Congratulations on your early retirement, Interesting indeed! Currently, I am in dire need of investment advice or tips. Last year, I hesitated and failed to take any action until the year concluded. However, this year, I am determined to try something new, as I am very receptive to various investment ideas. I want to be retired in my forties or fifties.

[@MariaGarcia-gv8hj]

No problem at all! If you're seeking to earn substantial profits from your investment, I would suggest determining your investment horizon and implementing a long-term plan. I worked with Claire Martha Magalhaes to create a long-term investment strategy, and she assisted us in managing our investments while we focused on my jobs without any concerns.

[@lovetypauline6530]

Thank you for your advice. It's challenging to find a reliable investment advisor here, and I appreciate your input. Seeing the successes you've achieved through investing, I would love to have access to your investment advisor's information if you wouldn't mind sharing it.

[@MariaGarcia-gv8hj]

I work with *CLAIRE MARTHA MAGALHAES* ,who is based in the United States. If you would like more information about her, you can conduct a search online. She even got featured on CNN recently.

[@lovetypauline6530]

I searched for the name and found her website, where I saw her qualifications and testimonials that looked impressive, with many positive reviews. I reached out to her to discuss my financial goals. Thank you for pointing me in the right direction.

[@AndrewOng]

If interest rates keep high and investing yields 0% or less, you are right. Investing is pointless. But from 2008-2022, asset prices went up way more than GDP. So lots of money for free just by buying assets. I assume that the world will not be weaning itself from cheap money and skyrocketing assets any time soon so I will keep buying stocks.

[@stemstudentph9246]

Its just a question of mindset, how tough your gut is. That is how long can you survive not being able to buy the things that you want. Basically monk mode, Well for premature/unplanned FIRE that is. For those that have planned FIRE and they have multiple sources of income i dont see anything going wrong with it.

[@MahikaZeroNine]

This is a good reminder to appreciate the journey.

[@moisesperez62]

Long story short: Money solves money problems and you are left with problems that money can't solve

[@jenshark4]

I feel like many people are striving for retirement as an end goal. When the end goal should be what will you do with all of that free time? Will you be creative or contribute in some way? Or will you “sit on the beach with your pet hamster”? And even if you choose to do the later, how long can you sustain doing nothing? Even the beach will get boring at some point. All you can do at that point is ponder the purpose of life. A better option is to find/determine your purpose/passions and aim for that whether you work or not. What would you do if you had all of the free time you could ever want?

[@jimj2683]

I would sleep with 5 star prostitutes non-stop. Then I would invest in longevity companies and sex-robots. I would hang out with friends, read books, travel, try out different careers, eat expensive good food, learn about all kinds of stuff. I guess I would be filling up the Maslow's pyramid.

[@darrellq6954]

You can see the sadness in Techlead. He has all the money he needs but no one to spend it with.

[@CutePuppy520]

Techlead is the type of guy that even he has someone he still wouldn’t really want to spend his money But, he’s the type who enjoys a partner who’s in the same wave length as him (ie: someone who also sees money as figures moving around spreadsheets+investments portfolio), believes in the same value+lessons in life as him If he pairs up with a girl who loves spending money+going out+loves expensive flashy stuffs, he’ll be 10 times more miserable than what he is now

[@neltins5308]

90% of people would hate to be on "vacation" forever, the way I see it if people just seek FIRE for the purpose of FIRE it will be like all the people seeking going to college simply to go or working a career simply to do it, getting a house, a wife, anything JUST TO DO IT AND BECAUSE OTHERS TELL YOU TO. However, all the people who have sought out FIRE purely to live life exactly the way they want, doing all the work or creating all the things in this world, innovating in industries that THEY want to do purely because of their will? They are extremely happy being FIRED and able to impact the world however they want to, doing all the work they really want to do. Or you can switch this if the people really have no ties or will to work into all their hobbies, passions, interests etc. Or if they don't care about any of that in their romantic relationships & focusing on their dream partner, or social relationships with friends & family being healthy instead of any of that material or individualistic stuff.

[@mintlata]

Great video. Thank you for the great talk. I'm not there yet, but I have realized most people who live comfortably always say "Money can't buy everything" and "Money is not everything". I have yet to experience that notion so it's something worth keeping in mind for myself in the future I guess

[@Eterna7Forms]

Money isn't everything. Not having it is. - Kanye West

[@jayhay1237]

I've been on fire for ten years now. From my point of view, much of what you said comes full circle. You made more points for fire than against it. I suppose it has a lot to do with level of understanding?

[@yhopeful]

these words go well in the background of chill out music💯

[@shaheenal-asadi]

Well said, favorite episode in a while - Love your work TL - have a pleasant weekend

[@danielltoth3789]

This guy is all over the place.

[@davidvancouver2748]

Thanks for this video topic, I actually don’t watch any crypto related vids and love it when you release these type!

[@julianweekes]

These are the kind of vlogs from you that I love Mr TL..... you were on FIRE today.... hit so many excellent points. I will share this with my son and family... and reflect on it all strongly myself. Thank you .

[@manmeetsingh1712]

Agree, this is what we expect.

[@McPhersonz]

I've made my first $100k through money I put aside and invested in the stock market. All I can say is that nothing beats expertise when it comes to finance.

[@Kalllee]

Of course, I did lose some money sometime this year when I started out investing myself. But with help it's been a swell experience. I just wish I had this knowledge before delving into the market.

[@Willycheng590]

Hello Eleanor. I'm got it in mind to make some money on the side too but I'm green to investing and I need help. How did you do it?

[@McPhersonz]

@@Willycheng590 Levi has exceeded my expectations just two months into working with him as my fiduciary overseeing my investments in stocks, and I-bonds. He's the go-to guy! You can reach him..

[@McPhersonz]

Leviclemans(a)Gmai Lcom...Is he taking commissions for trades? Yes, I’m I still making money in the process? Hell yes!

[@Willycheng590]

@@McPhersonz It wasn't difficult to get through to him. You're kind. The

[@ahdlkasdjfhalsdkj]

Back to San Jose? Did you leave LV? vlog something on your shows channel

[@Taylor201100]

Very true to go after what you want to achieve and not just money.

[@franciscofletes1948]

Joined army at 18. Retired at 39. Retired with 21 year pension. Filed claims with VA, now 100% Service connected veteran. Own a home and 2 condos. I live in the house and live off my military retirement and VA pension and the condos I rent out. I don’t even look at my TSP/mutual funds. That stuff will just sit there for another 25 years when I’m eligible for social security benefits. I’m pretty good on FIRE. I have dual US and Mexican citizenship and have a permanent residency in the Philippines. I split time between Puerto Vallarta Mexico, Luzon philippines and San Antonio Texas. I have 3 home bases and don’t plan to ever work again.

[@Travis_Trauma]

Nice 👍

[@chinaberg]

Seems like you are just bragging to brag.

[@franciscofletes1948]

@@chinaberg no. I mean I watched this video a while back so I’m not clear on all the details anymore but from what I remember, he seemed to ridicule the concept of retiring early as if not working and not achieving would leave someone feeling empty or you would get bored if you weren’t constantly striving for the western concept of “success.” Some of us push back on that. We’re comfortable letting go of that chase. I don’t judge people wanting to work their whole life or people who get bored with the vacation style retirement but I also push back on the idea that you can’t feel happy and fulfilled letting go of titles, rank, status and the chase for more money and more success and external validation. Some of us can let go of all that and feel content. There’s nothing wrong with either approach. So many people are so quick to judge other people’s lifestyle and goals. Especially in the west.

[@chinaberg]

@@franciscofletes1948 That's fair. I am happy for you that you get to enjoy your retirement.

[@aikoking374]

this is entirely inspiring and just gives confirmation ill be ok. im 16 i turn 18 next year. i got into university (first gen and the youngest in my family to go to college.) i should graduate at 20 but i do have the plan to graduate in 2.5 to 3 years. while managing to study abroad as well. debt free at that. im going to work in tech my plan; is postgrad 1- 2 years as a consultant (mainly because im fascinated with this career but also travel points.) then move to tech. im going to start social media this year, as i have a unique background and i want others like me to see they have options too. my goal is to make at least 10k a year to invest half of that until im 30 then let it compound. im sure i can live off of 3k a month (an extra thousand for car stuff. if i get one.) the other 2k can go for emergencies and such. i also want to start a business using my knowledge of living abroad and researching capabilities because ive seen many people wanting to move but not narrowing their wants, needs or goals. i dont want millions especially since i plan to move back abroad. once everything is automated. i have many interests i hope to pursue. some have said my goal of 5 units in five countries as a personal goal is ridiculous and that im too young to even be considering my near future but i just want to diversify myself and see my limit. because i know i can do big things. and i will get my residency in mexico as well as germany. all of this for freedom and stability really. thats my main value because with freedom comes the other things i want to do like travel and get my private pilot's license. i dont agree with a lot of what tech lead has to say about much and has said in this video, but thank you for commenting.

[@darioaltman]

Another thing that people dont usually think about is that when you start planning (and aiming) at money as a way of getting things, the things you wanted when you started tend to get relatively cheap... for example I loved video games and couldnt afford many... now I buy consoles for 100$ (retro lifestyle) and have no time to play anything!

[@OnCashFlow]

I didn't exactly understand the point you were trying to make initially, but I think you are referring to the fact that our wants and desires can get out of hand and become basically limitless in our modern world, but our needs are actually relatively easy to fulfil on very little in today's world. If that is the case, I strongly agree. I think it is easier than ever to live a really great life on very little of you tamper down your wants and desires because those wants and desires may not even be internally true, but actually they may be externally brought into your mind through marketing and media, etc.

[@abdulsijad2419]

u totally.missed the point

[@FarawayJohn]

It's not nearly over at 50, just stay with the people who believe in enjoying themselves. I have been doing business since I was at high school. Age can just make us sharper, stronger and more efficient. Would beat my younger self no question.

[@frozenintime]

I come here for the life perspective. You got me to a point where I can navigate my own life.

[@mikerowe3849]

FMD! You'll end up a lonely sad loner who lives with his parents!

[@shawnn6881]

I want financial freedom in my life but I don’t never want to retire

[@MarkAdler-tk9pi]

As long as you are breathing, your life is NOT over. You can enjoy life at almost any age. You just have not lived long enough to have a more comprehensive perspective in this area. But, you have many great insights and ideas, and I enjoy listening to your sharing of them.

[@kinocasinovipfanboy]

"maybe start a company" - good luck with that. If you can't compete in the finance market... good luck competing against big guys while taking a shot in the dark at starting a company. That is a very risky endeavor that requires tons of time, commitment and capital and in the end can give you nothing. Bad advice.

[@alexdickie]

I am 66, an electronics engineer with a computer Ph.D. I retired when I was 40. Never wanted to work since, although I could! Since then I had no customers, no bosses. You feel like you are getting taller because of lack of stress (pressure!). I retired with a 6 figure capital. I have my own house. Yes, I drive a Honda Civic. I get a new one before it ever needs repairs. 1. You must know exactly what YOU want (sincerely!) - This is very important. 2. You must never need approval of others. 3. You must know that showing off is not normal. This puts a grin on your face when other people are trying to show off. You know that they are just trying to be satisfied (but never reach there). 4. Your spouse must share the same thoughts. It has been great 26 years. I have been waking up every morning to do something that I want to do and enjoy doing. (People call that a hobby!) You discover that there is so much more to learn and after 40 you have the right mind to digest them all. If you are happy with above rules, FIRE is the best way to spend your life.

[@jeditrek]

Very good points and perspective on the Fire stage of life. You explain it really well and encourage thinking.

[@rah4254]

The ability to move through life without busy schedules, flexibility and freedom is very fulfilling in itself for people, you don't have to always be doing something fun, you just get to live a simple life without having to ,9 to 5

[@create306]

Exactly. By minimizing unnecessary clutter that comes from external sources, we can begin looking inward to discover what's actually meaningful to us. We can't do that when we're working most of our lives, paycheck to paycheck.

[@dawidmx]

You seem more relaxed in the new videos, nice to see that :)

[@dgballin21]

What if you are too tired working your 9-5 or don’t get vacation or make enough to travel. What do you suggest. One of the top regrets of dying people was spending too much time at work and not enough with family

[@miguelfonseca1104]

some of us have serious hobbies that cant financially maintain us but require almost the devotion of a full time job to improve at our level. this is why im big on fire. your points just highlight that most people dont have much to live for even with ample financial resources

[@thienkimnguyen27]

That applies to some people. In general, I don't think the costs of a hobby are a good measure for their seriousness, there is lots of fun stuff to do with little to no costs.

[@murkywaters5502]

A big example is art. It would be nice to be able to make professional-looking art, but that requires time, time that most of us have to spend working. Life is all about choices, and people can probably find a way to do both, but it requires serious sacrifices somewhere to work to have enough money AND be really good at your hobby.

[@miguelfonseca1104]

@@thienkimnguyen27 its not always about cost but literally time . For example i am a national master in chess. I can become the strongest player of my country in about 2-3 years of full time training but thats a 5-6 hours a day most days regimen. How am i supposed to do that with a full time job?

[@Ziegfried82]

@@murkywaters5502 not only that but I know for a fact there are far better artists than me, far better musicians, and far better game designers. So doing what I love is never going to make good money. That's why I do things I don't want to do to make money.

[@kablah777]

@@Ziegfried82 There are lots of bad musicians making lots of money. Don't steal your own joy by comparing yourself to others. You be the best you can be and that is enough. Also, remember. It's not the New York Times best WRITING Author that gets good money. It is the New York Times Best SELLING Author, that makes the bank.

[@Ziegfried82]

As someone who is using the FIRE approach there is something important to consider here: only extreme minimalists are going to succeed with it. The idea with FIRE is to not need to pull very much from the investments to get by. Yes when the market crashes and inflation rages you need to go work again or risk severely damaging your investments. Flexibility and common sense. Another thing about FIRE is this: are you really looking to do nothing in retirement or are you trying to gain the free time and money to do what you actually love? Maybe the thing I am passionate about doesn't make money, or I'm terrible at it but enjoy it anyways?

[@kablah777]

That's the key. My retirement plan is to do a desirable job that doesn't pay well.

[@lonnysstuff8773]

Rather than embracing minimalism, folks who are striving for FIRE need to devise a plan to structure their investments with the appropriate amount of growth and risk management for their goals. Also keep in mind that some traditional retirees have dealt with one or more market downturns; hence, consulting with them might help flesh out some additional strategies to add to one’s investing tool belt.

[@brofenix]

That's not true at all. You can reach Financial Independence without being an extreme minimalists. There are tons of people on the FIRE subreddits, including myself, who have an average salary of $50,000 - $100,000/year that are saving 20%+ and reaching Financial Independence around age 50-55 or so. That age is still ~10-15 years sooner than most people at least in America and is obtainable if you start around your late 20's or early 30's with a reasonable savings rate of ~20%. An extreme minimalist in my mind would be saving 50%+ of their income.

[@christiansimpleguy8278]

My dad is 71 and still working 2 days a week partly because he didn't really save for retirement and also I think it gives his life meaning as he helps people. His job is a chiropractor and he helps people feel better.

[@sprattmann4541]

I want to sit on a beach eating burgers, cans of beans and surfing my phone. Sounds perfect actually.

[@CGB.SPENDER]

Well if you don't have money you have to work then you lack time. Which means you can't work on your craft (cooking, painting etc). FIRE allows you to do these things all day. It becomes your work.

[@nithishsiva6910]

Very interesting take. My justification for subscribing to fire is that it limits my need to worry about money and allows me to do things that I've wanted to. For example instead of working and putting my time into a job that pays well, but I dislike I could work at a job that I do like, but doesn't pay well. I could do things that I want to without having to worry about money. This notion that I have on finances is definitely because I was raised in a lower middle classed family and for me I need that finical platform that I can relay on before taking a risk.

[@joeuko2836]

cool perspective. some wisdom in today’s rant 😊

[@spookyboi4784]

Ya know I used to not think so highly of your work but this video brings up a excellent point. Thanks for the food for thought.

[@dc1674]

He has an excellent point about not having to own things. I used to think I wanted a beach house but now I realize what a pain in the butt and expense it would be. Same goes for a large primary home. It's better to have less stuff and rent the luxuries.

[@libertysprings2244]

Definitely true with a pool. I never got one because I saw how much trouble it was for friends to maintain. And BOATS!

[@mobileprofessional]

Right on! ... NPR had a show called, "Car Talk" hosted by a pair of real characters. Whenever a caller talked about an ill-planned purchase or high ticket repair job, they'd say, "sounds like a boat payment!" 😆

[@alejmc]

Right, that saying: the things you buy end up owning you instead, always come to mind… sometimes I dumbly forget.

[@Alex-kr7zr]

Well, it all is a matter of calculation. Owning stuff that you don't use is expensive, renting stuff that you use frequently is also expensive. Rent what you don't use frequently, own what you use all the time. With real estate the calculation is a bit more tricky of course. That's why I like to calculate the per use cost of things and also how easy it is to sell it again and at what price. Some things are just cheaper to own than to rent.

[@13Dominoo]

I needed this

[@tammiesspark]

You make valid points here. The only perspective missing is that leasing your way through life is wonderful until there's some shift in life that makes the lack of ownership very risky. Apartments are in control of whose application they want to accept and how often they raise their rents, and there's nothing you can do about it. Also, you didn't account for the security one needs when you have children. FIRE doesn't account for the rising costs of family life either. You might have "retired" at 28 because you yourself can live off 4% generating $50k and that's very comfortable. But add a spouse and kids, and you'll be back to work.

[@JodsLife1]

Ya but there are certain (basic) things everyone should strive to own such as land/house. Gives that person a sense of pride that someone who rents will never gain.

[@chevredupoitou7330]

Pride and morals and ethics are the names we put on those ' feelings ' be they real caveman honest feelings or some sorta programming which is plausible ? Was the rat race created or naturally came about

[@JodsLife1]

@@chevredupoitou7330 you obviously have never owned land before of any kind. If you ever do you will realize having a space on this planet that is ONLY yours that nobody can tell you what to do while you are on it is a truly freeing feeling.

[@haffa0905]

@@JodsLife1united states still owns your land

[@darkphasex]

FIRE is doable for many; however, people that focus on FIRE forget that they will eventually get old or sick; so you better plan for health insurance or a way to pay for unexpected medical expenses.

[@AndrewDaniele87]

This is less of an issue in Canada

[@gloucestergarden3441]

One problem is that if and when you get to old age , then old age can be very expensive with care and medical costs. Easy to spend £60,000 per year on care costs when you become very old. Huge savings needed if you plan to live to a great age.

[@edwardmorgan8371]

These are good discussions…well done and thank you!

[@BasementBerean]

10:46 It's been a long time since a person's life was "pretty much lived" by the time they are forty or fifty.

[@jameier11]

When you near 40 it rings clear. It is ringing for me anyway

[@BasementBerean]

@@jameier11 Of course it rings clear if you have a brain. That's just that you've realized you are a mortal. But if you do not have self-destructive habits, eliminate foods that age you, perhaps exercise, you likely have half your life left. It's not "pretty much lived" by a long shot.

[@prettysmile777]

Ownership of some things comes with certain rights and legal protections not offered to non-owners . If ownership is over rated, then why do the largest businesses, firms and investment groups strive to own so much? I agree that the push to "f.i.r.e." can cause extreme pain and even create a lower quality of life, but let's keep f.i.r.e. and ownership as separate ideas

[@merrykrichtsamt]

I don't agree. SnP 500 dividends grow at a rate of 10% year on average. What is advaisable is not to spend the entire dividends each year but only part of it and reinvesting the rest. This make things even better in situations of bear market as you can buy more units at cheaper price and this has a massive impact on the annual growth of your dividend.

[@futuregootecks]

Great video sifu! Money is almost never the answer, having a purpose and working towards the lifestyle is? 🎉

[@snasnusnaba3361]

9:10 I disagree. I find people in regular jobs often times a lot more boring than people who do not "have to" do anything but can do exactly what they always dreamed of doing. It's a typical untrue stereotype of humans that people are lazy and play videogames if they don't "have to" do something. A healthy human being is searching for personal growth and ways to do something positive for the world.

[@Astillion]

FIRE does works. I quit my full-time job last summer and have since then lived a Barista FIRE lifestyle. Which means I work on average a few hours a week with things I enjoy, and get 90% of my income from passive sources. My main income is from a rental property, which delivers regardless of the market. My stocks are down, but it doesn't bother me. 2022 isn't over yet, but if things continue as they have so far, this will be the best year of my life. Thanks to all this extra free time from no longer working I've been able to explore so many more aspects of life. I'm spending more time in nature, I'm reading more books, I'm trying new kinds of culture, I've done more in personal development this year than any previous year. Working full time was a drain on my energy and my time. And what's the point when I was making more than twice the amount of money I needed to pay for my lifestyle? Sure, there is a few things I have to abstain from because I don't make as much money now as I did before. But when I was making all that money, I had to abstain from so much more, because I didn't have enough time. For me the choice is easy, and I'm never going back to working full time.

[@Spiceynuts]

Lovely gear

[@OscarWithC]

Most people who do FIRE have thought alot about this, we are all different and want different things, but my main concern with FIRE is that dont forget to live your life now! with that said like you also said we really dont need alot of money to live fullfilling lives! Therefore saving and investing money can give you opportunities and freedom later on in life and i am not talking 65+ i mean much earlier like 40-50 or even earlier!

[@JaneGo]

I thought FIRE sounded great when I first discovered it, but with a full-time job, hobbies, spending time with loved ones, and regular chores, I have no time for side hustles to make extra income to try to retire sooner. I'm realizing that I don't want my youth to be just about work. Instead, I think taking more time off work every now and then to do what I want is the way to go. AKA work/life balance instead of front-loading my younger years with all the work and retiring when I'm old. I could die tomorrow, so I'll spend my money now to enjoy life.

[@watamutha]

A relative of mine is FIRE-ing until he's 50. I was like "wth? those are your best years! Balance does exist you know!"

[@LegDayLas]

If you think FIRE is about retiring early you have a fundamental misunderstanding about the actual meaning of FIRE. It is the pursuit to reach a point where you COULD retire early (what you describe as just "early retirement".) Those who are successful with FIRE detach finance from their work. They still work, just for other reasons and the money is just a bonus. Is FIRE practical for everyone? Absolutely not, especially for someone who already has a family to provide for. It takes a dedicated mindset and a willingness to sacrifice for a future that is not guaranteed.

[@21doyourthing]

Hey TechLead, I noticed you look depressed. I am sure it's related to your family stuff, and you're missing out on your son. But hey, you have a strong personality and you can overcome whatever life throws at you. I just don't want you to be so emotionless. That's a one direction to apathy, which you know, will not get you too far.. Wish you all the best.

[@namla8215]

he may very well be.. Unfortunately he has no choice but needs to work hard. Ex is dinging him for Child Support some crazy monthly amount.... He cant even see his kids. Sad situation.

[@kbmblizz1940]

I differ on housing. I upgraded each time, my 6th 🏠. I love it here, it is home, good area. It is the payback of many years of reinvesting equity. No, house sharing is many steps downgrade, only if we failed with finances.

[@faidon90125]

Well, it just doesn't have to be FIRE but FI so you can pursue the job/hobby/art that you always wanted without compromises.

[@antreastoumazou2736]

Barista fire it is

[@retropursuit992]

This is what I'm aiming for, have enough in the bank to compound whilst I work as a postman (always wanted to do it). Seems like an interesting, stress free job unlike my engineering job currently.

[@GK-gc9cv]

At 35 I'm now I'm far more interested in FI than actually FIRE

[@mitchschneider9761]

Thank you for sharing. Financial Independence is freedom from a tiring, controlling, stressful, & no work/life balanced career/job/corporation. Own stocks for long-term, BRK-B. After retired for several years & you’re bored with your hamster, then you have options to work, as a choice, without being a must.

[@sexygeek8996]

The purpose of FIRE is not having to spend a large portion of your time doing things you don't enjoy. I am mainly referring to working. Most jobs suck, but even if you have one that you enjoy you will still spend a lot of time on tasks you don't like.

[@sterlthepearl1000]

Good video about destination addiction. That's the pre-occupation with the idea that happiness is in the next location, the next job, or the next partner. And until a person gives up the idea that happiness is somewhere else. It will never be where they are.

[@priapushk996]

12:35 I begged TL to pay the ransom for my kidnapped child. He refused saying money is the byproduct of success.

[@alamagordoingordo3047]

Thank you for your "deep" opinions. You are almost right, but if you would need medical exams (in my case genetic diagnosis) and an adeguate assistance for your health problem, you would understand the thirst for money, that so many people (like me) have.

[@pdsnpsnldlqnop3330]

In Cuba the education to become a doctor is free as the goal is to make the world a better place. That healthcare is free too. Capitalism can't tolerate this. Hence Cuba has to be on the sanctions. However, Cuba is not the only place where this happens. In Scotland the education is for free and the healthcare is too. You are in the wrong country and going after the wrong solution.

[@jordankennedy6759]

I mean cuba did side with russia. Lol thsyre still being puniahed for that.

[@unknowjlm]

You're not thirsty for money, You're thirsty for health...

[@ReubenChew]

You pretty much hit the nail on the head. The only reason why I would save for retirement (here in the US) is in the event of failing health. At the end of the day, daily living is relatively cheap after you pay off your house and healthcare is taken care of.

[@travelnurseadventures3225]

I agree, I’ve worked with nurses working OT at the hospitals getting their wages garnished paying for their chemo TX-most nurses I work with paid their student loans, but still owe medical debt-total bs

[@grahamashe9715]

Retiring at 18 makes more sense than retiring at 80.

[@vips078]

Make it 10. Retiring at 18 is way too old

[@weishi5286]

@@vips078 most gangsters do retire at 18 these days before they are no longer able to get away with murder

[@ThomasFoolery8]

@@weishi5286 yeah they retire 6 feet deep lol

[@jjvs9]

You’ve never worked a day in a life have you

[@UnitedAngle]

I think each of us will individually have to determine what early retirement actually means and what financial independence means. No point looking over the playbook of others. The next question to answer would then be "Is this a very reasonable plan?" There are people right now who their idea of retirement would be to be able to rent a cabin for a few months of the year in nature or near some lake, thereby taking in the beautiful view. Plain and simple. No High Street shopping. No restaurants. No noisy traffic. No compulsion to buy things not needed. But again, we all have to decide and be prudent on these matters.

[@mallred32]

Ive been experiencing this existential problem. He is correct, once the money problem is solved you do have to decide why your going to do stuff and it gets weird.

[@user-tl5yb1jy7c]

Ever since 1900s we shifted to a life of plenty instead of a life of shortage. That changed the game in how humans mist survive and flourish, keeping spending paced w productivity isn't really adaptive anymore.

[@shakeworldwide2031]

finally some real talk….this is why i subscribed in the first place. ive been busy developing a few useful products. im doing this because what I am creating is needed….and your right….money isnt the motivation…..it is a bi-product….by product….get it?

[@EmilyBeery]

I think it's important to stick to stocks that are immune to economic policies. I'm looking at NVIDIA and other AI stocks. It seems AI is the trajectory most companies are taking, including even established FAANG companies. Maybe there are other recommendations?

[@ratta-chan]

Have you ever considered in the success/life equation, that ownership is an illusion due to the fact that we are not immortal? If you absolutely face your own mortality at an early age, ie. almost die, you realise you are running on a limited timeline, and your priorities definitely change. Just food for thought. Love your videos. 👍

[@jimj2683]

I want to go sailing, but a safe sailboat costs $2 million and I need another $3 million to have the passive income to quit my work to make time for the sailing.

[@TheBusttheboss]

@@jimj2683 go on someone else’s boat

[@calleandreasson639]

@@jimj2683 take people on trips, i went on trips with a couple, paying for the ride

[@AlphaCrucis]

Idk. I was in a situation where I could've died. Affected me in other ways, but not my goals and priorities. I'm just a boring person who doesn't really care to seek out everything life has to offer. Though I guess I also just don't appreciate being alive in general.

[@deficator750]

my whole dream of retiring and taking holidays is very short lived when i realised most tot my life satisfaction actually came from having family and friends around every week. All the experiences we have. The money because very boaring when your alone.

[@ekaterinakorneeva4792]

I like to paint and I do it pretty decent, but I am working as a Test Automation Engineer and earning a Data Science microdegree from MIT. Because my husband can't work due to health issues and my daughter have difficulties and we immigrated to Europe not long ago. What am I doing wrong? I just don't believe that my painter's career will be secure enough. I can't afford being not on-demand.

[@sudosara]

I was just thinking about this the other day. You explained everything I was struggling with so well. I think it's easier to join the rat race of attaining more money than it is to find genuine purpose in your life or to find joy in the moment when it seems so mundane.

[@xybersurfer]

well of course

[@michaurban5664]

Very well put...

[@EricLaspe]

You raise a good point. The rat race is a distraction from lack of purpose for many people. I think this becomes a problem when we seek to maximize our income through our career instead of following a more balanced route. When work becomes all about making money, to the detriment of other factors such as enjoyment and growth, we poison our relationship to work. Annie Dillard said, poignantly, "How you spend your days is how you spend your life." So, I think our work should be something that sustains us financially while also providing outlets/targets for our curiosities, passions, creativity, and personal growth.

[@sudosara]

@@EricLaspe very well said

[@HouseGuide]

You make a good point and I might add that you should take part of the money and do things that will make you more fulfilled whether it be remodeling your home, taking a vacation, getting custom made shoes so your feet are not always sore from the lousy shoes on the market, buying the sports car you always wanted etc. If you have it, you need to use it to make your life better otherwise it is just as good as nothing or just virtual money.

[@kingsta4145]

Insightful video!

[@WineZ22]

Finally a non crypto content. And yeah. I do agree with this. I do think of doing FIRE. But then I realized that FIRE is just for someome who just have the lack of purpose. And yeah do not after money. Strive for the lifestyle or the purpose that you want to achieve.

[@MARKCRASTO]

Careful bro. I hope u don't wake up 15 years from now with high debt and low assets and wonder where u went wrong.

[@BOSSDONMAN]

How is FIRE for someone with no life purpose? Lmao

[@vidarvegger]

I think the problem with FIRE is that people generally pursue it because they hate their jobs. A better solution is to find a job you are passionate about. If you are passionate about your job you also get very good at it and the money will follow. And if you like your profession then there is no reason to retire.

[@IslamicRageBoy]

Definitely not. “Pursue” hobbies you like, a job is just for money

[@tr1ckster726]

If you don’t like the job in the field you are in, and have been there for years, it’s immensely difficult to just change professions while still dealing with all of life’s financial challenges.

[@joaquin67]

Just get a job you like or don’t hate, and if you get good enough then there’s a good chance you might kind of enjoy it.

[@SteveMetcalf]

@Boba not all the way true. I play in a full-time orchestra, and while it doesn’t pull a tech level salary, I love almost everyday that I’m on stage playing for people. I am tenured and cannot be fired at anytime. It’s kinda the best.

[@watamutha]

@Boba Yeah but you dont have to do a crap job for decades just because it pays more. You can do a job you're ok with and make a little less and do it for longer.

[@aDadwhoCares]

Great video

[@Bm23CC]

I am 51 my life is far from over. I have loads of energy and I'm in the best shape ever physically.

[@AccessAccess]

It's about freedom. Sure some people would live boring lives and accomplish little of value given that freedom. But that doesn't mean that we don't desire it. It's better to have that freedom than to not. For a productive person, being free from a job means you can pursue your own interests, focus on self-improvement, helping others, or honestly just whatever suits your fancy. He is right that living frugally (especially as a relatively young single man or woman) can be done on the cheap, but it's always good to have a roof over your head, things like health insurance, and at least keep an emergency fund for unforeseen difficulties.

[@rayanahosn]

Yeah agreed money can be used to stop doing things that you don’t want to do such a 9 to 5. Obviously the amount of money needed will vary person to person. Also many people have kids to care of and are spending or saving their money on that and their kid’s future, not just there own future. So yeah there are definitely many good reasons to want to stack up on money

[@notvisibletoday3406]

I have "retired" with 42 without having big money aside (in Europe..). As long as my wife works, all is fine :)) However after 5 months already I can see and feel that I want to bring value into economy/people/businesses but dont want to do it as a self-employed. But the freedom I feel is that I can chose what I want and I am not dictated by money. Love this feeling...

[@babytigtig3795]

What would you do if you ran out of money?

[@jcantonelli1]

"...we should all learn to enjoy things without necessarily feeling the *need* to have to own it." On point - after all, most people love going to the beach, and nearly no one on Earth "owns" one. This is about being present in as many moments as possible in our lives.

[@kinocasinovipfanboy]

You sound like a workaholic. And that's fine. But anyone who's not interesting because they aren't working a wage job... means they're just uninteresting in general. There's plenty of interesting stuff to do other than slaving for a boss.

[@worstchoresmadesimple6259]

Like collecting Stamps, or not reading comments.

[@salehali3372]

So true

[@kinocasinovipfanboy]

@Boba That very well put, Boba.

[@TheDanserr]

We all have different perspectives. While working in a hospital as a nurse, I conclude that health is wealth no matter how much you've achieved or accumulated in this lifetime materially.

[@andrewlym]

but health is not fully under your control so you should not only optimize for health. For example, traveling will increase the risk to expose disease or virus, so you just stay at home to optimize health?

[@TheHassoun9]

I agree, abundance mindset is key