Chapter 1: The Obsession with FIRE

Since I first encountered the idea of FIRE (Financial Independence, Retire Early), it has dominated my thoughts daily, almost to the point of obsession. Waking up to the realization that I could choose not to work if I didn’t want to is an incredible feeling.

I've viewed numerous YouTube videos showcasing young individuals in their twenties who have successfully earned substantial incomes online, ultimately achieving FIRE. As I am 36, this has left me feeling somewhat behind, fueling an urgency to catch up. This urgency led me into a damaging comparison mindset that’s difficult to escape.

Calculating my investment ratios and estimating how long I could sustain myself without income has become a compulsive hobby. To complicate matters, I frequently explore various financial scenarios. Admittedly, I may be overindulging in this behavior, and I can’t shake the feeling that this energy could be better directed elsewhere.

I've developed a scarcity mindset. In the race towards FIRE, I often convince myself that even minor purchases, like new underwear, jeopardize my goals, leading to a reluctance to invest in basic comforts. After all, no one can see my worn-out underwear, right? This mindset often spirals into guilt and regret.

I’ve found myself losing the joy in my work. While my job is satisfactory and my colleagues are pleasant, the allure of freedom overshadows everything. When viewed through this lens, each workday feels like a mere sacrifice in pursuit of an elusive goal. The only priority becomes ensuring that my paycheck arrives on time, allowing me to save, invest, and re-evaluate my net worth.

This mindset has made me increasingly risk-averse. Even the thought of delaying my goals by a few months triggers overwhelming anxiety. If I attempt something new that doesn’t succeed, I am often left feeling guilty.

However, there are positives to my FIRE journey. I’ve learned to manage my spending, understand investment strategies, and have begun saving for my future retirement, leading to increased financial stability.

While I believe that striving for independence is crucial for safety and stress reduction, it’s essential to ensure that this pursuit is sustainable—for both myself and those around me.

What would I change if I could? I would continue to save and invest, avoiding unnecessary purchases for ecological reasons. However, I would shift my perspective on work, seeking enjoyment and purpose in my career while exploring self-employment opportunities. Freedom remains my core value, yet I now recognize that pursuing it shouldn’t entail confining myself to a self-imposed scarcity.

Chapter 2: Embracing a Balanced Approach to Financial Independence

Finding the right balance in the pursuit of FIRE is essential for a fulfilling life. It's about integrating financial goals with personal happiness and well-being, rather than viewing work solely as a means to an end.