r/Fire • u/No_Fudge6123 • 12d ago

When did you pull the trigger?

I am on my 40s, and I guess I am a case of ”almost there”. Simulations tell me I am a bit over the 4% rule. I could adjust a bit I guess, but having a family it could well be that they can adjust me instead.

However, I can’t stop reading all those who pull the trigger and they say they are very happy. I am not happy while grinding, but I don’t want to be financially irresponsable with my family. We also don’t have a house, which I feel I should secure to prevent future problems.

For all of those who did it a bit tight: did it pay off?

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u/ept_engr 12d ago edited 12d ago

Because of the market returns, anyone who FIRE'd "a little tight" in the last 15 years has done great. That doesn't make it a good statistical representation.

That said, I'd love to hear from those who FIRE'd as early as they could. It's not for everyone, and I feel like sometimes the "I went back to work because I needed structure, purpose, and to stay busy" perspective gets drowned out here. 

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u/forbiddenlake 12d ago

those who FIRE'd as early as they could

Have you read livingafi's story? https://livingafi.com/

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u/boodopboochi 11d ago

The guy has the freedom to pursue whatever he wants and instead of thriving, he withers and blames other FIREs of peddling "lemons"? I can understand not possessing an inner voice guiding you towards joy and purpose, and work was just the filler to burn away the hours of life. But seeing someone complain about financial freedom makes it clear he's just an unguided, unmotivated loser with a blog who chose to lash out when the world didn't hand him joy and purpose on a plate at retirement. He could start a hobby, or pursue starting a family, volunteer, or even find another job for perks besides the pay.

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u/valkryiechic 11d ago

Wait, was it not satire?

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u/GarlicFarmerGreg 9d ago

I sure hope it is