Early retirement sounds appealing—who wouldn’t want to avoid working their entire life in a job they don’t love? Even if you love your work, there are times when you just want a break. But if you’re constantly worried about money, those breaks lose their joy. Sometimes, this worry can even make us start hating what we once loved to do. And that’s where the notion of early retirement—maybe a dream of traveling to the Bahamas—comes in.
However, we need a purpose in life, and work often provides that purpose. After retiring, once the honeymoon period ends, some people find themselves facing a lack of direction, which can lead to dissatisfaction. Before retiring, it’s essential to think about what you want to do next. What role will you take on once you’re done with your current job?
When people talk about early retirement, most of the time, what they actually mean is financial freedom. They want the ability to work on their own terms. They don’t want to stress over bills if they decide to take a two-month vacation. They want the freedom from demanding bosses and the worry of lost income when they take a day off. They still want to work—just maybe on something different from what they’re currently doing.
Financial freedom should be the real focus. There are several ways to achieve it, whether through retirement plans, the stock market, real estate, or any investment with a steady return on investment.
Instead of aiming for early retirement, aim for financial freedom. Each of us has unique skills we can use to help others in some way. Feeling bored, overwhelmed, or unhappy in your current job? Don’t retire—become financially free and explore other opportunities.