Why does someone start blogging about financial independence? Most people seem to start blogging because they become so immersed in their goal of financial independence that it becomes a big focus of their lives. They constantly think about it and naturally gravitate to writing in the FIRE (financial independence, retire early) community. In some cases, this evolves into a side business based on this passion. In my case, it was a bit different. I didn’t start blogging…
This post is for those earlier in their financial independence (FI) journey who have graduated from a focus on paying down debt, building a small emergency fund and getting any employer 401K contribution match (if you’re lucky enough to get this), and are now faced with the nice problem of figuring out where to invest the extra income each month. This is typically a time of anxiety. You feel like you’re putting your hard-earned money…
There are many benefits to becoming financially independent (FI). Duh, you say? Well, yes, it’s pretty obvious that the freedom of not being dependent on a job to pay for your lifestyle is pretty great for a lot of reasons. You can find top 10 and other such lists of these reasons on the internet with a quick search. But these lists tend to be matter-of-fact and obvious. If you’re…
Decumulation is the technical term for spending down one’s assets. It’s the opposite of the accumulation phase of building up those assets. So typically it’s the point at which you transition from your job income that is both paying your living expenses and allowing you to save money, to where your savings now need to pay for your living expenses. Your net worth slowly declines as you spend the money you saved. It’s a stark transition…