A person who is not satisfied with what they have will not be satisfied with what they do not have. The cheat code to a satisfying life is to learn to be satisfied.
If people could just live frugally for just a few years in the beginning of their adult life it would make a huge difference in their financial situation.
100%. Dollars saved while you're young go so much further. That's why I say to "keep living like a college student" even once you are making money. You don't have to do it forever, but those savings go a loooooong way
I got along with my parents really well so I stay home until I was 24 and save about 75% of my pay and still did all the stuff most 20 somethings do. Paid cash for my first house.
@@TheRealEdStoner I know a few people who are able to do that at work (and another that manages to spend everything anyways 😅) what a difference it makes!
My sister makes almost $175k and lives paycheck to paycheck cuz of lifestyle creep I make less than 1/2 and have crossed 100k NW not even 30 yet Love your vids
People sometimes call me crazy when I say income doesn't matter, but this is what I mean! You can spend everything you earn, no matter how much it is. You gotta separate spending from earning. Great work on the saving, and glad you're enjoying the vids ❤️
I grew up in the balkans in family of 5 that lived in probably no more than 600 sq ft home. When we moved to the US we had nothing and my parents worked for very little pay. When I stop to think about how much I spend on useless things it makes me feel guilty. It's very easy to become trapped in the spending cycle given that we're predominantly a consumer society in the US.
It really is part of the culture. I'm so lucky to have learned from my father, he grew up with absolutely nothing and wanted to make sure I learned the money lessons he learned (without learning the hard way like him)
Hey neighbor! I live in Alexandria and know the struggles of living in a HCOL area. In April of 2023 I needed a costly surgery ($25k) but only had $8k to cover it. I saved up the rest by November thanks to simply not shopping anymore. I cancelled all of my subscriptions, stopped buying lunch at work, stopped buying clothes and shoes. I was already way less extreme as my friends and coworkers. But I cut down my expenses a lot, keeping just necessities - transportation, groceries and my dog's health insurance and his food. Plus bills, of course. It was an eye opening experience, I realized that I can save a lot more money than I thought if I put effort into it. And this entire year I lived the same way without a "need" to save. Now it's a lifestyle and I love it. Did I mention I am a waitress?
Wow, that is insanely impressive. That sounds like a really transformative experience that will serve you well in the long run, but sorry it was spurred on by an extreme event! I hope your surgery went well
Give this man a round of applause. I also live in NOVA and not only is it outrageously expensive, there is a lot of flexing and keeping up with the Joneses which trickles down from the DC elites. McLean is notorious for being like this. It takes a massive amount of willpower to live this frugally here. I’m a road warrior so I need a decent car, but I do try to be very frugal with the rest, and temptation lurks around every corner in this area. Respect!
I wish I had this sort of discipline back in my 20's. Now, at 39, all I think about what's the point of being so frugal if I can just die at any second. Props to you and your journey to financial freedom.
It's all relative. 39 is still TONS of time to save money (and no, you don't have to be even half as frugal as me) Also, believe it or not, I actually like living simply :)
My friends give me a lot of flak for taking public transport instead of owning and driving a car. I live in Toronto and although the public transport system isn't the best, it does get me from point A to B. If you plan and manage your time, there shouldn't be a problem. I used to get irritated trying to make them understand, but I decided to cut out friends living above there means instead. I was always aware that the same friends giving advice were the same ones that prioritized appearances instead of saving to actually live up to what they appeared to be, lol. It sucks but I'd rather be temporarily lonely without these friends than go broke trying to impress them. At the end of the day, saving money is my TOP priority for the next couple of years so I can move out of my parents house and get my own place. I don't have a shiny car, my Presto pass is perfect for me and I am grateful for it.
Something that's really helped me (as a very competitive person) is to recognize that everyone is playing a different game. A lot of people want to play the game of status through what they own, or how they appear. But saving as much money as possible is a MUCH more important goal to me. I'm also trying to surround myself with likeminded people. Anyone that isn't pro-public transport probably isn't going to get my lifestyle anyway. Keep up the good work and keep saving money! You're doing all the right things
Time is something you can never get back. Don’t know how it is in toronto but in some cities in the US, you’re spending 2 hrs each way on commute using public transport. Sometimes it makes more sense to have a car. It doesn’t have to be a 2025 Range Rover but something within an 8% cost of your salary.
24 here and finally reached 100k invested earlier this year. currently at 120k. im staying frugal until 1 mil. and at 1 mil ill probably still continue.
Woah, another frugal man named Charles out in the wild? Must come with the name! That's awesome, sounds like you're crushing it. And yeah, building wealth might turn into a forever game for me 😅
Honestly I'd probably retire faster if I just focused on my career... but it's a lot more fun to make videos, and this is what i want to be working on in retirement!
You moving at max speed to fire you doing the right thing Im doing the same thing , saving & investing 95% of all my money blessed to have a great job to hit fire in a few years
I like the calm video style. I wonder why this doesn't have many more views. To your finances: I've done pretty much the same and reached financial freedom within 6 years. I just spent a bit more on nice cuff (like a nice motorbike + laptop).
my partner & i aren’t flush with cash nor do we have high paying jobs, but due to our shared financial/lifestyle habits we never feel squeezed. he’s fantastic w credit and looks for big ways to keep expenses low, i focus on the smaller day-to-day ways to keep our money in house instead of pissing away $ on unnecessary convenience. it takes a real look at your wants vs. needs, and making consistent conscious decisions about how you use your money. make coffee + 90% food decisions at home, planning ahead needs to become habitual. if you know you like certain treats/snacks and that’s your regular money drain, BUY IT IN BULK AND KEEP IT AT HOME. investing in/buying secondhand/being gifted cooking equipment like an airfryer makes more convenience food readily available in your kitchen. see what you can optimize in your life based on the habits you already do, make incremental improvements and you’ll notice one day that you aren’t feeling like your $ is disappearing and you have no idea what you spent it on
@@RunningonFIRE yep, and that’s exactly what we do! i’m disabled and work remote contract jobs, i also niched my way into higher-end pet/housesitting in my area, both of which are relatively inconsistent, but pay very highly when i do get work. i easily save at LEAST 65% of whatever money i make because cost of living in our area is low, and though we have pets, we’re childfree/no children so that’s a (positive) massive factor in how lean we can make our budget. i have a great nest egg in a HYSA and an IRA i contribute to, my partner and i are on the same page financially, overall i just feel secure and never worried/scared about money. plans and actions are always for things to improve as far as income goes but it’s literally only up from here and i feel optimistic for the future! ☺️
update in case anyone cares: i started a ft/perm salary position as an operations manager literally this week(!!) and am beyond excited & grateful for the opportunity❣️ 100% remote, most i’ve ever made thus far, 6% 401(k) match + a base salary increase + eligible for 4 WEEKS (yearly) PTO after the first 100 days. i am over the damn moon and so ready to start an actual *career* not just a job, and honestly it’s at the BEST time for me because i have a solid action plan & foundation habits for my finances
@@veri.contrary That's sick!!! Congrats!!! The habits you've built will be a great foundation, and will let you really increase your wealth! I'm super happy for you
this is a quite refreshing perspective and I totally agree with you, we spend so much money on things we don't really need, most of my friends call me extremely frugal too, even though to me they are the ones that seem to be very wasteful with money, its all perspective. But in a few years time I'll be able to live freely... loved your video bro and by the way that lunch looks super delicious!
100%!!! Some people say I'm depriving myself, I say they're drowning in luxuries. The thing I want to own the most is my time, not clutter. Keep playing your game, sounds like you're doing a great job!
It's funny because although I grew up in the West (Spain and then the U.K), due to the poverty I grew up around all these things that you do in this video don't seem frugal at all to me... They are all just everyday life, in fact things like gym memberships and using anything but the cheapest grocery store would have been huge luxuries to me growing up. Now I travel, I'm writing this from Macedonia where i have a $250 a month apartment including all bills and I couldn't be happier. I work about four months a year in the U.K, only doing work that includes free accommodation, save every penny I earn, and then simply live in cheaper countries to a strict budget (I live on what a local earns, so here for example about $600) and have a wonderful life. The quality of life I can have here, for less than a quarter of what it costs for a basic existence back home is incredible and I love the Balkan culture. Anyways great video, it proves to me there a re many ways of reaching some time of financial freedom and I hope more and more people start waking up to the fact that you dont have to kill yourself for a paycheck! Subscribed.
That's so cool!!! To your point about what's normal, I totally agree. I was lucky to learn from parents that understood poverty, and had worked out of it. Your lifestyle is inspiring. I plan to travel/live abroad at some point, but I'm not sure when. Thanks for dropping by
You are just a typical European, trapped in US 😁. I do the same and I do not feel it is frugal, just normal. Gym card is cheap here I live. It is just a way of living affordable for everybody. :)
@@StraightThruTheHeart right. but if I live a long time, I'll be glad I made the investment. It's a gamble. But odds are I'm not going to die at 31, so it's *probably* worth it
Shopping, having subscriptions, premium streaming service, none of those make someone "live" more. Seeing friends and family does, being creative in our work and our hobbies, taking care of our body...
I guess I fall into the frugal living group and didn’t even realize it. I prefer to eat at home, I save 30% of my salary in my 401k. No car notes, I eat out maybe twice a month. No credit cards. Only a home loan. I’m 53 and plan to retire at 60 and travel and just rent the rest of my life. I’m tired of cutting my grass and home maintenance.
That's so often how it happens! That sounds like a wonderful life 😊 I've had a lot of people tell me I'll regret not buying a house, but your perspective is helpful!
I found my people! Senior citizen here living solely on social security after retiring from a lifetime of secretarial jobs. Always lived on half of my take home pay, which allowed me to pay off my mortgage 17 years early. My current social security income is almost exactly half of what my take home pay was, so my standard of living didn't need to change at all. And now that I don't have the expenses involved with working (wardrobe, travel, haircuts, makeup, etc) I'm still able to add $500 to my savings every month.
That's incredible! You nailed it; it's how much you spend not how much you earn! And nothing better than still building wealth even after you retire ❤️
I am glad your video hit my feed. I am 61 yo and hit my FIRE # 2 years ago at 58 1/2. I read Your Money or Your Life in 2003 and went to a weekend workshop on it in 2004. I started extreme saving and expense cutting in 2009 during the GFC. I have cracked a $30,000 per year gross income only 4 years of that time. Mid $20,000 per year was and still is my norm. So, what I have accomplished is incredible to me. I define my tack as lean fire coupled with part time barista fire. That works well for me.
I'm saving and investing 82% this year. I'm considered financially independent but I'm still working. My next goal is to work 40 hours if possible in 2-3. I still want to work so I don't touch my investments and to deal with the healthcare gap.
What is the point of reaching FI & hitting your investment goals if you don’t then actually arrive? I’m finding more and more people who hit FI in the community can’t actually enjoy their money and what they’ve worked to - it’s never “enough”. It’s sad.
The last part of this video really resonated with me. I own a suitcase of stuff and that is all I need. I live exactly the same, but I chose to go outside the U.S. so my total bills are about your monthly rent. I don't see this as extreme at all because the part of the world I am in the everyday joe lives like you and I. I would say most countries your lifestyle is very normal for someone in their 20s. It really bothers me even going to the U.S. and seeing the real extreme lifestyles I grew up around. You see it in people's weight, what they drive, and the house they choose to go into life long debt for. It truly makes no sense to me.
That's so cool!! I've also considered moving abroad, and I've been told my lifestyle would not be considered very extreme. But here... I'm like a freak to some people just because I want to save my money 😅
Thanks for posting this video! I'm 19 and looking to have financial freedom by the time I'm 30. I save ~90% of my checks while I live at home and will save as much as possible once moving out. These videos motivate me to keep going!
That's sick! Saving while living at home is such a fantastic head start. Sounds like you'll hit financial freedom right after me. You don't have to have the answer now, but it's a great time to be thinking about what you think you might want to do with your time once financially free. Do you know yet?
Yeah I get that a lot lol This amount of frugality is more than I'd recommend for most (I just enjoy it and am naturally frugal) but I hope it helps to see what's possible. If I can retire in my 20s, people living "normal" lives can still reach financial freedom too! Which I'm sure you see being thrift yourself :)
@@RunningonFIRE I understand... When your moment comes..when your F.I.R.E. arrive, consider doing the same as many other North Americans and come to Portugal. One of the most recent was...Tony Fadell. He was the one who created the iPod music player from scratch and helped save Apple; led the team that designed and built the iPhone hardware and software, a product that started an authentic digital revolution; founded Nest Labs, a smart home products company. Anyway, another example among many others who chose Portugal to live. With just 20,000/25,000 euros per year you can have a good enough and stress-free life here.
@@RunningonFIRE I understand... When your moment comes..when your F.I.R.E. arrive, consider doing the same as many other North Americans and come to Portugal. One of the most recent was...Tony Fadell. He was the one who created the iPod music player from scratch and helped save Apple; led the team that designed and built the iPhone hardware and software, a product that started an authentic digital revolution; founded Nest Labs, a smart home products company. Anyway, another example among many others who chose Portugal to live. With just 20.k/25.k euros per year you can have a good enough and stress-free life here.
@@RunningonFIRE When your moment comes..when your F.I.R.E. arrive, consider doing the same as many other North Americans and come to Portugal. One of the most recent was...Tony_Fadell. He was the one who created the iPod music player from scratch and helped save Apple; led the team that designed and built the iPhone hardware and software, a product that started an authentic digital revolution; founded Nest_Labs, a smart home products company. Anyway, another example among many others who chose Portugal to live. With just 20,000/25,000k per year you can have a good enough and stress-free life here.
I mean, compared to what I'd consider a regular grocery store, it definitely is. I'd save a lot on food if I lived closer to a Costco or even Safeway, but I save more on transportation in my location so it's worth it
I love frugality channels, too, especially the videos about secret middle class millionaires who leave fortunes to worthy causes. My husband was expecting his employer (corporation) to offer another round of downsizing when he was in his mid-fifties. So we maximized his 401K contribution and automatic savings into his credit union. I watched the savings grow, and periodically threw more money into paying off the house early. So the house was paid off after 11 years, etc. Our house, built new in 1985, was not one stick bigger or fancier than we needed!
I've got a video planned on this topic! I'm not a chef by any means. But things like eggs, rice, beans, and potatoes are really low cost and can be the foundation of a ton of meals. I'm also experimenting with vegetable chicken soup as the weather gets colder :)
Tacos, fajitas, Mexican food you can reuse a lot of items, you can get a pack of 20 tortillas for like $2 at aldi. Oatmeal for breakfast, bobs red mill is like $5 for a 32 oz bag. Write down meals you like and see what ingredients cross over and how you can buy ingredients for less money. Also get rid of snacks I know it’s hard but if you say I only have $30 this week you have to get rid of cookies or choose between chips and cookies. Keeps you healthier too. As you keep doing it your brain adjusts and you naturally cannot spend money because your behavior has to match your frugality brain 😂😂
95% of any delicious meal is not the main ingredients, it's what it tastes like. I have found that if I have and use a wide variety of MIXED herbs and spices already blended to relieve me of the trouble, and a large variety of sauces (BBQ, Thai, Mexican, Jamaican, Hawaiian, etc.) then I can put together any basic foods (chicken, potatoes, vegetable) using these flavors and eat gourmet every night!
In some major cities like NYC and LA, TJs is actually one of the cheapest options since they maintain price continuity regardless of the average income of each city (unlike most grocery chains which will charge different prices neighborhood to neighborhood)
That's super interesting. Here its definitely more expensive than the larger grocery store 2 miles down the road, but not by too much if you shop smart
I wish I had the luxury to ride my bike to work. Unfortunately, I have to drive, BUT my car has been paid off for 10 years and I have no issues with it!
I sold my car 4 weeks ago after being convinced I could live without it - I am also walking / biking distance to amenities and work from home (walking distance to bus stops and a 15 min cycle to a train station). I miss the 'convenience' and the thought of having a car now we're heading in to autumn / winter, but realise I just need time to get used to life without a car again (had a car for about 5-6 years), but look forward to being healthier and having more disposable income!
I hope you come to be glad of the decision! Cars can be soooo expensive so I bet you'll see a big difference in savings. It's definitely a transition but sounds like you've got everything you need nearby :)
I love how real you are about your day and comparing it to the typical consumer! I live pretty frugally too, so I can totally relate. But I do get comments from family and friends sometimes, and it feels like people are judging. Do you ever feel like others think your lifestyle is odd?
Oh 100%. But most people are supportive. And the thing is... I think their lifestyles are pretty odd. I have no interest in working a job I don't like until I'm 70. So it doesn't bother me :)
I have a lot of these same habits. Saved 50%+, biked to work, frozen food or went home to eat lunch. Pro tip: if the market crashes again like in 2008 buy more house than you think you need.
That's the way to do it! That's awesome. The buying a house is the tricky thing. It might be the right financial decision to buy, but my hunch is I'll move a few times so I'm really hesitant. So renting is not just a financial decision for me
I live alone, and have a 1,700 square ft., two story house. Two bedrooms and bath upstairs with balconies off each huge bedroom. If things go really sideways, I can rent one or both of the bedrooms and sleep downstairs. I can also use it as a live-in assistance arrangement so I don't have to go to a nursing home or assisted living.
This is so cool to watch. I’m from the DMV area, and it’s cool to see you working in tech in northern Virginia! I was literally just applying to tech internships for defense companies in nova yesterday lol. I’m a college freshman and financial freedom is a HUGE thing for me. My goal is $1m by 30. It’s gonna be a wild ride and I’d rather set an unrealistic goal, since it keeps things fun. You’re an inspiration. Keep it up.
That's sick! If you send me an email (charles@running-on-fire.com) I can tell you where I work and maybe drop a referral for you. Ambitious goals are fun, as long as you enjoy the ride! Looking forward to seeing your journey
21 yr old Uni student here, I am a frugal guy but my friends confuse me for being cheap. I don’t mind and care much about it but when there is a big group of people or your community and everyone thinks this way it gets tough. I feel the best thing to do is just grind as you are doing and be financially free and prove them you were never cheap and just had bigger plans than what they could imagine!
You're on the right track. I'll also say this: the people you want the approval of now are not the same people that will be in your life in 10 years from now when you're achieving everything you want. Don't worry about doing it to "prove them wrong" Do it for you
So for achieving fire quickly, he is sacrificing little indulgences and missing out on life and seeing every bit of other people's desire as waste! What will he do with all that money in his late 50’s? Every age group has its own charm. Frugality is good to the point that you don't spend money on unnecessary stuff, but not chain yourself from every desire!
Hey there! Here's how I think about it. You could say I'm "sacrificing indulgences", but I think everyone else is sacrificing their lives (working until their 60s) just to buy little indulgences! I plan to give the vast majority (all?) of my money to charity; I'm really into the effective altruism movement, and I think my money could do much more good there than by spending it on myself. Believe it or not, I actually do prefer living simply and frugally (I won't be THIS frugal forever, but it's worth it be financially free faster :) ) But not everyone will want to live my lifestyle, and that's okay! All about finding your balance. Many people could live half as frugal and STILL retire early! (just probably not before 30) Much love
I know a huge amount of people who lived somewhat Spartanly in their 20s, including me, to save money , also because we were living abroad so there is not a lot of point in having a beautiful things you can’t take back with you. But you can and people do live that way in their home countries as well. Party people in their 20s seem to not know that this is how a large group of people do live, with the future in mind. I was lucky to meet them and adopt some good habits.
@@RunningonFIREwhat's your perspective on starting a family? Most fire people dropout once they start a family because that changes their perspective and goals.
It seems so logical and natural to live like this instead of endless overconsumption. But after watching I caught myself on a thought "I can live like this too just after buying this last item I really need" and its scary because I definitely do NOT need this item. All I wanted to say is youre a very strong person to resist all marketing shit and your own greed and desires. And thank you for inspiration!
One thing that's really helped me is thinking about in terms of tradeoffs. I know I would like to buy more things. But the choice isn't between "having the thing" and "not having the thing" The choice is "would i rather have this thing or have more time" For me, the answer is almost always that I'd rather have more time.
Very few people are willing to put in the effort to become financially free. They can't handle delayed gratification, which is the key to reach that. You are doing exactly that: compromising on things that would make you happy now to be even happier and freer in the future.
@@RunningonFIRE Couldn't agree more, man. Having less usually means more happiness. Most people do not understand that, especially due to all the capitalist and consumerist bs we've been sold.
I have a very similar lifestyle/habits...I never consider it "extreme" really.... I have what I need, and don't lack for anything. It's a simple and happy lifestyle really.
Exactly my point at the end! My life is still downright luxurious compared to the average lifestyle of an American 100 years ago. Working my whole life just to afford even more luxuries seems a lot more "extreme" to me I'm glad you've found your contentment :)
You’re living my life in my 20s. But it’s A lot harder to pull off if you have a family, make sure you include them in the financial plan if you plan to start one!
Save/invest 25%, spend no more than 28% on living expenses, and, if needed, no more than 8% on vehicle expenses. Anything that is left over after taxes, can be used for leisure. That way you can still enjoy life and not be a complete miser.
I think I'd enjoy my life more if I had an extra couple decades of financial freedom. That plan probably would work great for a lot of people, but that would be a LOT of money on leisure for me
Good for you for choosing a lifestyle that fits your goals. You seem to be doing great. The only thing I don't understand is why you feel the need to disparate other people's choices just because they are not the ones you would choose. So what if other people buy lunch at the cafeteria every day or buy big homes and cars. They have a right to live the life that gives them the most satisfaction. Just because it's not what you would choose does not make their choices any less valid than yours. It just comes across like you are trying too hard to put their choices down to elevate yours. Both choices are valid at the same time - it's called freedom.
Hey there, didn't mean to come across as so rude! It just befuddles me. And I think a lot of people make those decisions without even realizing there's another option. And that's why I make these videos, to show people there's another way :)
Also asking questions that are answerable as if they are rhetorical is super annoying, it’s like bragging you haven’t bothered to learn, bragging you have no empathy. People enjoy a freshly made hot meal, they enjoy not spending Sunday meal prepping, it’s very civilised to have a work cafeteria, I loved it so much the one time I had it. I like videos about people doing their thing and about frugality, I like your videos but the stupid rhetorical questions are annoying. It’s not just you, so many people do it. Have the courage to tell the truth- you don’t “not know why”, you believe them to be stupid and wasteful, or whatever you think. I wish people would state their hypotheses so then a discussion could occur about them instead.
@@RunningonFIRE I sort a agree with what their noticing about your observations of others ways of spending. This society we live in is, definitely messed up in financial health. some can't even enjoy a meal without feeling its going to cost later. Sum hav to spend way over what they want, cos they've been programmed that's what you do. they end up suffering.. If your proud of yourself for saving, collecting, nothing wrong with that.. I do know people who never enjoyed the money they earned..
I mean, it’s one way to live your life. I admire your frugality in general. I didnt hear anything about partners, kids, pets, friends, socializing. Seems a bit insular. Again, to each his own. But your philosophy on FIRE and owning your own time is def on point.
I've been really busy. I get a lot of social time at the gym, but I definitely don't have kids or pets right now. But I know that being financially free will make all of those things easier if I want them one day. But right now I'm just focused on achieving that goal
Thanks for the inspirational video! Guy has really unlocked the secret to min-maxing EDL (every day life). He is so frugal, he doesn't even pay attention. But the real fly in the ointment is the outrageous health/insurance costs in the states. A catastrophic illness can really wipe out any savings, forcing some to file for bankruptcy. Keep up the good work!
@@paulogotera4412 yup, but investing early is more powerful than investing later. Personally, I'd rather just speed run to early retirement. Not that far off now, anyway
Suuuuper important. I couldn't date someone that isn't also really serious about saving, to be honest. I bet NYC is EXPENSIVE, but hope you're making enough to make it worth it 😅
I won't mind spending or sharing something with my partner if they know how to 100% appreciate it like recycling plastic bags, not wasting food even the gravy, etc.
I watched the entire vid! You say you're not depriving yourself of anything, yet you're depriving yourself of interpersonal relationships, like a significant other (temporary or longer term). It's not a critique of anything, just an observation. Thanks.😁
That's true in a way, but only because i haven't had interest recently. And of course, I'll have a lot more time for that once I'm financial free. But right now I'm investing a lot of time in work, a masters degree, and this channel
I know this sounds weird but set a time limit for the grocery store. Like 30 minutes. Get in and get out because if you don’t you will spend more money. And get your budget in cash and make it $10 less to see how many meals you could get. Your brain will adjust to the lifestyle
Totally!!! I wrote a blog post a long time ago about "treating stores like enemy territory." Get in, do what you need, and get out. Spending longer in a place designed to make you spend money is not going to do you ANY favors
That's great but, trust me, it does become more difficult when you have kids. With 3 kids and now 5 grand kids it's hard to get by without a car and a house and the cost of their education. You're priorities change somewhat but well done for getting ahead of the game.
Of course, no doubt. No matter what, that's another person to care for! One of my motivations is to have my financial freedom before I have kids (if I ever do)
This video relateable... Rode a bike to work for years to avoid costs... I used to buy a 40p soup at work for lunch for years.. I earn pretty good money nowadays.. but i really havent let lifestyle creep much at all.. just a bit more balance with kids and stuff I just dont like the idea of being beholdent to work... Dont let your lifestyle creep, dont take on much debt.. and you can kinda have your independence
That sounds like a beautiful life to me. Money buys freedom or time, and I'd rather buy my time. And it really is a lifestyle; I'm sure I'll become a little less frugal eventually, but this really is how I like to live. Congratulations on your success!
@@RunningonFIRE thought I might also drop this tid bit, since you seem of a similar mind. People generally undervalue small expenses, like lunch, £5 here or there on a nice coffee. Or even selling an old pair of trousers for £5 on eBay to make a bit of money. To earn £5 in interest in a bank account each year you'd need to have £100 in that account. That's after you've paid tax your salary, so even more had to be earned originally.. £120-140. Basically don't overlook the he value of making/losing small bits of money... As they need much more capital to earn passively.
I live basically the same except for renting. I also live in northern Virginia and I bought a small home and rent out the rooms to make my total housing payment only $370 per month. The difference is that my roommates are paying down a home and earning equity for me. That's huge For me I also increase savings by avoiding all consumables whenever possible. I use washcloths instead of paper towels, I use a bidet instead of TP, I just drink water and black coffee, and I use the same cheap soap for everything. Over all it saves about $3k per year compared to the average consumer. It isn't even a sacrifice, as I don't care about those things anyway, and not having paper products is seen as a luxury
If I knew I'd be in NoVa for 10+ years I'd do the exact same thing! Sounds like you're doing all the right things. Better for the planet and your wallet ❤️
$94,000 is not much. Some people make more than that annually and cannot afford those homes. It goes to show how many Americans are in debt/have mortgages. Everyone trying to impress others. Being debt-free is freedom.
@Observer100-cn7gv I totally agree. 94k is great for starting out of college, but definitely not enough to buy a 1.5m house until you've saved for a long time! I don't see the appeal of having a huge house, honestly
I live in nova too trust me man you aren't alone with needing to live with frugality. I know many people including myself that need to do this to survive. It's insane
100%, it's an insanely expensive area. When people ask me if I feel deprived living frugally, I remind them that many people live on less and don't have a choice. Best of luck on your journey ❤️
Definitely motivating! I like to have several different income streams from side hustles that flow into investments which then grow my money overtime. I do have an ordering takeout addiction but hearing this is my sign to start saving now. Great video!
You know, I've never gotten into all the side hustles. I like to focus on just one or two things and really maximize them. But sounds like you're doing a lot of the right things! Saving more will go a LONG way, though
Good for you. You're effective and efficient and you live a simple life. It doesn't seem like you're depriving yourself of things. Other people might criticise but most people's expenses are oversized homes, vehicle bills and taxes (when they're high earners). Once you do have a bit more saved up, you may leave your job, or go travelling for a bit, or live somewhere more rural. You may want to go for a few adventures, or live abroad, or work remotely and there's no harm in having money in the bank. Even what you have already is a lot of money everywhere outside the US metros, and definitely enough in other countries. Spending money on stuff does not necessarily equal happiness. You need enough for essentials and the odd luxury, and to not have to worry about a lack of money. You're a healthy, chill, intelligent, young man with money in the bank, and routines, and that puts you ahead of most Americans who are suffering from chronic stress and illness. The obsession with FIRE will pass once you have enough and then you'll really discover yourself and what you want to put your life towards.
100%!!! I always say I'd rather be "deprived" of things than deprived of my time. I haven't decided what I'll do with that time, but probably a lot of the things you just mentioned!
I'm 59 and married. We have an 84 year old housemate. She's not related to either of us. Just a. friend. We each have our own spaces and shared spaces including a big yard. A lot of people wouldn't live with a housemate married and at my age. But, it's actually quite nice and saves so much money. I would highly recommend especially younger people living with olders.
I’m starting intermittent fasting as well. I’m going to do an eight hour window . plus, I’m going to start meal prepping in order to reduce food waste.
I’m living this same lifestyle after how expensive everything else has gotten… just to afford 15y/o tech that can bring me off the grid. Been doing all I could to foster human connections in this increasingly asocial all work/no play worldview.
Thank you for this video mate it's nice to hear stories of being frugal with money, I'm interested in learning how to save more money, I don't drive either and the most annoying thing is when certain people will question why you're not driving and tell you the typical argument driving gives you independence which it does but what they don't consider is how expensive it is to maintain a vehicle.
Driving gives you independence... but so does having a bunch of savings!!! You can always say you do it for the environment too. I've found that works well to stop objections.
Let me tell you, invest in ANY road bike that looks road worthy. I did the same thing you did and somebody gifted me a road bike, way more fun to ride and you will see a time improvement between rides home to work so you have more time.
@@RunningonFIRE Consider an E-Bike. All you do is shut it off to get exercise yet if you need to get somewhere further down the road, you have that ability.
Practical advice, but very personal and situational. I live in NJ. Married with 3 kids. I travel often for work so I cannot do a lot of the savings steps you outline. Interesting video nonetheless.
I love extreme frugality videos, I am not extremely frugal, but I do live way under my means, and I think I live a life of luxury. I do the same with extreme minimalists, I am a regular run of the mill minimalist, but when I see someone who lives on 47 items, I feel like wow I have so much stuff. LOL
To be honest, I don't even feel like I'm that extremely frugal either. I'm pretty minimalist, but it's not like I'm living in a van. But even a little frugality seems extreme to a lot of people 😅
I'm the most frugal person i know. Buying things it's off the table. Don't buy anything.pay bills. food. my kids get me stuf. but I've been able to help them, so..
Good questions! A lot of my social time is at the gym. I'm still pretty new to the area, too. Holidays aren't huge in my family. We usually give acts of service rather than clutter; almost everyone in my family is a minimalist and both parents are downsizing :)
As someone who’s from DC I understand biking in the city, but would never think that it would be accessible in NOVA. I’m assuming you’re pretty close to work which is great. As for food I’m fortunate that my job offers free breakfast and lunch so I only need meals for the weekend. I will say that I disagree with the notion that Trader Joe’s is expensive.
I live right next to a bus stop which can take me to Orange and Silver line, it's not too bad. You're not the first to say Trader Joe's is expensive... but it's the most expensive store I've ever shopped at lol
People don't understand that financial freedom is spiritual freedom. They see it as living like a monk, with none of the pleasures that we "deserve." I think one of the lessons we are here on earth to learn, is to learn to live without those things of earth.
Really that's not a life lesson. The earth didn't have cars and material things when we got here so doubt that's the lesson. But ya I've always lived that way. I rather have my freedom then work and have lots of money.
@@ChrisJericho-yf4db I can imagine that even the cavemen were territorial, and valued the land that provided food and shelter. I can believe that what they valued had more to do with survival of the tribes/groups. Maybe whoever had the coveted area on the side of a mountain that had caves, and a lot of land along the water where they could fish, would make other tribes jealous and want to fight to take it away from them. If we are on a spiritual/soul journey, then we must eventually learn to let go of earthly wants/needs, otherwise we remain too earthbound. But I believe in reincarnation, so if we are here over many, many lifetimes, we evolved out of the stone age and will reincarnate into the future. But this is a material world by design, and evolution happens over millennia.
I'd definitely have to spend more, of course. Kids need to eat, after all. But the reason I'm living like this now is so I can be financially free and afford to be a more present father, if I ever become one :)
Absolutely. Although, I think it would be a lot easier for more people to live a fulfilling life if they had financial freedom and could spend time pursuing their values.
Honestly it's hard for me to say; I did a traditional college approach with a CS degree and found my way into my current job through an internship. Now I do more task management stuff. There's tons of courses on coursera that will teach you a lot of skills, but the hardest part is just finding an internship or first job to get your foot in the door. Look for ways to build up a portfolio of projects.
@@RunningonFIRE Thank you. Yea, I finished up an IT bootcamp and I’m having trouble finding and entry level position even it it’s low pay. I’ve started the google cybersecurity course on coursera so, hopefully that will lead somewhere. Great channel 👍🏻
You're the MMM of the new generation. Well-presented and summarized information as to how to get to an insane savings rate. It really is just math. Personally, I embrace more of a mustache-lite philosophy and have about a 50% savings rate. Good luck in your journey!
Wow that is such a huge complicated, you have no idea... I learned so much from MMM. He introduced me to FIRE as a lost high schooler, and I've been obsessed with it since! Thanks so much for dropping by, and sweet savings rate!
FREE download of How to Save Your First $100,000 ebook: running-on-fire.com/first-100k-book
naw, u only live once and can’t take money with u after u die. u can die or be disabled tomorrow
I'm the same way.. I put away 12k+ in savings yearly... 1more yr and total retirement in the country 😊💗
You said you had a gym and lockers at work, why paid extra for gym membership.. ??
@@stormbear7330 So I can do kickboxing, which is my main hobby.
The gym membership means I get kickboxing coaches and stuff :)
@@Tina-wj8qg That's sick! Great work!!
When u want nothing u have everything
Absolutely! Happiness is a function of expectations
A person who is not satisfied with what they have will not be satisfied with what they do not have. The cheat code to a satisfying life is to learn to be satisfied.
Wise words. Enjoy what you have not what you want
@@jackester6742 Keep your wants small and your needs will be taken care of.
He’s got a giant nice house, nice rain gear, nice bike, Tupperware, etc.
I think he just makes a lot of money
If people could just live frugally for just a few years in the beginning of their adult life it would make a huge difference in their financial situation.
100%. Dollars saved while you're young go so much further.
That's why I say to "keep living like a college student" even once you are making money. You don't have to do it forever, but those savings go a loooooong way
I got along with my parents really well so I stay home until I was 24 and save about 75% of my pay and still did all the stuff most 20 somethings do. Paid cash for my first house.
@@TheRealEdStoner I know a few people who are able to do that at work (and another that manages to spend everything anyways 😅) what a difference it makes!
@@TheRealEdStonerI'm really proud of you for saving for your house well done wish I had done it
yeah, you're absolutely right. I regret it now. I started saving money recently. better late than never, ain't it.
My sister makes almost $175k and lives paycheck to paycheck cuz of lifestyle creep
I make less than 1/2 and have crossed 100k NW not even 30 yet
Love your vids
People sometimes call me crazy when I say income doesn't matter, but this is what I mean! You can spend everything you earn, no matter how much it is. You gotta separate spending from earning.
Great work on the saving, and glad you're enjoying the vids ❤️
😊👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼💯👌
I grew up in the balkans in family of 5 that lived in probably no more than 600 sq ft home. When we moved to the US we had nothing and my parents worked for very little pay. When I stop to think about how much I spend on useless things it makes me feel guilty. It's very easy to become trapped in the spending cycle given that we're predominantly a consumer society in the US.
It really is part of the culture. I'm so lucky to have learned from my father, he grew up with absolutely nothing and wanted to make sure I learned the money lessons he learned (without learning the hard way like him)
Je brt zajebano je kad dodes iz ove vukojebine u ameriku pa vidis koliko je sve "jeftino".
Hey neighbor! I live in Alexandria and know the struggles of living in a HCOL area. In April of 2023 I needed a costly surgery ($25k) but only had $8k to cover it. I saved up the rest by November thanks to simply not shopping anymore. I cancelled all of my subscriptions, stopped buying lunch at work, stopped buying clothes and shoes. I was already way less extreme as my friends and coworkers. But I cut down my expenses a lot, keeping just necessities - transportation, groceries and my dog's health insurance and his food. Plus bills, of course. It was an eye opening experience, I realized that I can save a lot more money than I thought if I put effort into it. And this entire year I lived the same way without a "need" to save. Now it's a lifestyle and I love it. Did I mention I am a waitress?
Wow, that is insanely impressive. That sounds like a really transformative experience that will serve you well in the long run, but sorry it was spurred on by an extreme event!
I hope your surgery went well
Give this man a round of applause. I also live in NOVA and not only is it outrageously expensive, there is a lot of flexing and keeping up with the Joneses which trickles down from the DC elites. McLean is notorious for being like this. It takes a massive amount of willpower to live this frugally here. I’m a road warrior so I need a decent car, but I do try to be very frugal with the rest, and temptation lurks around every corner in this area. Respect!
Thanks!! Yeah it's crazy how much money gets thrown around here. But I know I'm playing a different game. Keep up the good work yourself!
I wish I had this sort of discipline back in my 20's. Now, at 39, all I think about what's the point of being so frugal if I can just die at any second. Props to you and your journey to financial freedom.
It's all relative. 39 is still TONS of time to save money (and no, you don't have to be even half as frugal as me)
Also, believe it or not, I actually like living simply :)
If you die soon you won’t know you were frugal lol
Dying at any second would suck but being 70 with no saving would also suck.
@@TheRealEdStoner Yeah, I agree, but thankfully I am also terrified of that too so I do save, just not to the levels I probably should be.
That is Strange concept. Most probably you will not die at 39 but be poor later
Making your meals for work and having the free coffee is such a huge thing. I have always done this and it saves a small fortune.
100%, food is one of the biggest expenses for most people but you really don't have to spend that much
It feels good to be frugal and have piece of mind.
Absolutely... a LOT of little stresses go away when you aren't in fear of not having enough money
Peace
My mistake.@@no_talking
My friends give me a lot of flak for taking public transport instead of owning and driving a car. I live in Toronto and although the public transport system isn't the best, it does get me from point A to B. If you plan and manage your time, there shouldn't be a problem. I used to get irritated trying to make them understand, but I decided to cut out friends living above there means instead. I was always aware that the same friends giving advice were the same ones that prioritized appearances instead of saving to actually live up to what they appeared to be, lol. It sucks but I'd rather be temporarily lonely without these friends than go broke trying to impress them. At the end of the day, saving money is my TOP priority for the next couple of years so I can move out of my parents house and get my own place. I don't have a shiny car, my Presto pass is perfect for me and I am grateful for it.
Something that's really helped me (as a very competitive person) is to recognize that everyone is playing a different game. A lot of people want to play the game of status through what they own, or how they appear. But saving as much money as possible is a MUCH more important goal to me. I'm also trying to surround myself with likeminded people. Anyone that isn't pro-public transport probably isn't going to get my lifestyle anyway.
Keep up the good work and keep saving money! You're doing all the right things
Time is something you can never get back. Don’t know how it is in toronto but in some cities in the US, you’re spending 2 hrs each way on commute using public transport. Sometimes it makes more sense to have a car. It doesn’t have to be a 2025 Range Rover but something within an 8% cost of your salary.
Btw i live in a very walkable city and if I REALLY need to get somewhere fast, I just get an Uber
Tell these people, if they ask, that a car is an EXPENSE, not an INVESTMENT.
Presto pass for the win! I do the same and it's been a blessing
24 here and finally reached 100k invested earlier this year. currently at 120k. im staying frugal until 1 mil. and at 1 mil ill probably still continue.
Woah, another frugal man named Charles out in the wild? Must come with the name!
That's awesome, sounds like you're crushing it.
And yeah, building wealth might turn into a forever game for me 😅
You are so smart !!!
Damn Bro, I'm 34 and almost every month I put in $500 into a savings since I was 18 and only managed to save 45k. :( you got this man! :D
@Billy-yj2kn Invest your money in the stock market index funds, mutual funds, etc...compound interest.
@@suefleming oh mutual funds and something called GIC's and tax free savings I do. The stock market though, I dunno, seems risky. 🤨🤔
Having a hobby that can potentially turn into profits is a huge plus
Honestly I'd probably retire faster if I just focused on my career... but it's a lot more fun to make videos, and this is what i want to be working on in retirement!
Im starting to think this "buy a house" thing is a cult
@@RunningonFIRE Having a good work life balance is more important than being miserable HOPING to retire early.
@@rebeltheharem7028It’s not a hope, his calculation for when he can retire is mathematically sound.
The transit here in Cornwall is way worse than TO.
You moving at max speed to fire you doing the right thing
Im doing the same thing , saving & investing 95% of all my money blessed to have a great job to hit fire in a few years
That's incredible, 95% is crazy!! Super impressive
I like the calm video style. I wonder why this doesn't have many more views.
To your finances: I've done pretty much the same and reached financial freedom within 6 years. I just spent a bit more on nice cuff (like a nice motorbike + laptop).
Wow, congrats! 6 years is super impressive.
This is one of my best performing videos lol, so I'll take it!
my partner & i aren’t flush with cash nor do we have high paying jobs, but due to our shared financial/lifestyle habits we never feel squeezed. he’s fantastic w credit and looks for big ways to keep expenses low, i focus on the smaller day-to-day ways to keep our money in house instead of pissing away $ on unnecessary convenience.
it takes a real look at your wants vs. needs, and making consistent conscious decisions about how you use your money. make coffee + 90% food decisions at home, planning ahead needs to become habitual. if you know you like certain treats/snacks and that’s your regular money drain, BUY IT IN BULK AND KEEP IT AT HOME.
investing in/buying secondhand/being gifted cooking equipment like an airfryer makes more convenience food readily available in your kitchen.
see what you can optimize in your life based on the habits you already do, make incremental improvements and you’ll notice one day that you aren’t feeling like your $ is disappearing and you have no idea what you spent it on
100%!!! It doesn't take a huge income to do well financially. And then, if you do earn more, it will all go to savings!
@@RunningonFIRE yep, and that’s exactly what we do! i’m disabled and work remote contract jobs, i also niched my way into higher-end pet/housesitting in my area, both of which are relatively inconsistent, but pay very highly when i do get work.
i easily save at LEAST 65% of whatever money i make because cost of living in our area is low, and though we have pets, we’re childfree/no children so that’s a (positive) massive factor in how lean we can make our budget. i have a great nest egg in a HYSA and an IRA i contribute to, my partner and i are on the same page financially, overall i just feel secure and never worried/scared about money.
plans and actions are always for things to improve as far as income goes but it’s literally only up from here and i feel optimistic for the future! ☺️
update in case anyone cares: i started a ft/perm salary position as an operations manager literally this week(!!) and am beyond excited & grateful for the opportunity❣️ 100% remote, most i’ve ever made thus far, 6% 401(k) match + a base salary increase + eligible for 4 WEEKS (yearly) PTO after the first 100 days.
i am over the damn moon and so ready to start an actual *career* not just a job, and honestly it’s at the BEST time for me because i have a solid action plan & foundation habits for my finances
@@veri.contrary That's sick!!! Congrats!!! The habits you've built will be a great foundation, and will let you really increase your wealth! I'm super happy for you
this is a quite refreshing perspective and I totally agree with you, we spend so much money on things we don't really need, most of my friends call me extremely frugal too, even though to me they are the ones that seem to be very wasteful with money, its all perspective. But in a few years time I'll be able to live freely... loved your video bro and by the way that lunch looks super delicious!
100%!!!
Some people say I'm depriving myself, I say they're drowning in luxuries. The thing I want to own the most is my time, not clutter.
Keep playing your game, sounds like you're doing a great job!
"What most people consider normal is actually extremeley wasteful and luxurious" Truth.
It's funny because although I grew up in the West (Spain and then the U.K), due to the poverty I grew up around all these things that you do in this video don't seem frugal at all to me... They are all just everyday life, in fact things like gym memberships and using anything but the cheapest grocery store would have been huge luxuries to me growing up. Now I travel, I'm writing this from Macedonia where i have a $250 a month apartment including all bills and I couldn't be happier. I work about four months a year in the U.K, only doing work that includes free accommodation, save every penny I earn, and then simply live in cheaper countries to a strict budget (I live on what a local earns, so here for example about $600) and have a wonderful life. The quality of life I can have here, for less than a quarter of what it costs for a basic existence back home is incredible and I love the Balkan culture. Anyways great video, it proves to me there a re many ways of reaching some time of financial freedom and I hope more and more people start waking up to the fact that you dont have to kill yourself for a paycheck! Subscribed.
That's so cool!!!
To your point about what's normal, I totally agree. I was lucky to learn from parents that understood poverty, and had worked out of it.
Your lifestyle is inspiring. I plan to travel/live abroad at some point, but I'm not sure when.
Thanks for dropping by
That sounds amazing well done to you your a smart cookie
You are just a typical European, trapped in US 😁. I do the same and I do not feel it is frugal, just normal.
Gym card is cheap here I live. It is just a way of living affordable for everybody. :)
Ha, I've never heard that before! Maybe I'd find more likeminded people if I moved 😅
You would like our sandwich with cheese 🧀 😂😂 in the Netherlands 🇳🇱 and that we go with bike everywhere
Yeah I don't see anything frugal about it ...seems normal to me ... I live pretty much same life.
As a Dutch person, his way is how I already live. Packing own lunch, walking or cycling to the store. Limiting eating out.
It's great to save money, but you gotta live too.
I'll have a lot of time to do all my living in the 35 years of extra financial freedom. That's how I think of it. This is an investment stage
@RunningonFIRE Nothing is guaranteed, not even tomorrow.
@@StraightThruTheHeart right. but if I live a long time, I'll be glad I made the investment. It's a gamble. But odds are I'm not going to die at 31, so it's *probably* worth it
I feel like the way he's living feels more "alive" than what many ppl experience
Shopping, having subscriptions, premium streaming service, none of those make someone "live" more. Seeing friends and family does, being creative in our work and our hobbies, taking care of our body...
I guess I fall into the frugal living group and didn’t even realize it. I prefer to eat at home, I save 30% of my salary in my 401k. No car notes, I eat out maybe twice a month. No credit cards. Only a home loan. I’m 53 and plan to retire at 60 and travel and just rent the rest of my life. I’m tired of cutting my grass and home maintenance.
That's so often how it happens!
That sounds like a wonderful life 😊
I've had a lot of people tell me I'll regret not buying a house, but your perspective is helpful!
I found my people!
Senior citizen here living solely on social security after retiring from a lifetime of secretarial jobs. Always lived on half of my take home pay, which allowed me to pay off my mortgage 17 years early.
My current social security income is almost exactly half of what my take home pay was, so my standard of living didn't need to change at all. And now that I don't have the expenses involved with working (wardrobe, travel, haircuts, makeup, etc) I'm still able to add $500 to my savings every month.
That's incredible! You nailed it; it's how much you spend not how much you earn! And nothing better than still building wealth even after you retire ❤️
I am glad your video hit my feed. I am 61 yo and hit my FIRE # 2 years ago at 58 1/2. I read Your Money or Your Life in 2003 and went to a weekend workshop on it in 2004. I started extreme saving and expense cutting in 2009 during the GFC. I have cracked a $30,000 per year gross income only 4 years of that time. Mid $20,000 per year was and still is my norm. So,
what I have accomplished is incredible to me. I define my tack as lean fire coupled with part time barista fire. That works well for me.
That's amazing, congratulations! Really goes to show its about spending habits more than just income. It sounds like you have a beautiful life now!
He's satisfied with his life, don't knock him, I'm happy for you.
Everyone has their priorities! Most people want more things. I want more time. Glad you understand ❤️
I'm saving and investing 82% this year. I'm considered financially independent but I'm still working. My next goal is to work 40 hours if possible in 2-3. I still want to work so I don't touch my investments and to deal with the healthcare gap.
That's awesome! With an 82% savings rate I'm sure you won't have to work much longer to not worry about health care
What is the point of reaching FI & hitting your investment goals if you don’t then actually arrive? I’m finding more and more people who hit FI in the community can’t actually enjoy their money and what they’ve worked to - it’s never “enough”. It’s sad.
@@Londonbridge88 You don't think the point is to have options?
The last part of this video really resonated with me. I own a suitcase of stuff and that is all I need. I live exactly the same, but I chose to go outside the U.S. so my total bills are about your monthly rent. I don't see this as extreme at all because the part of the world I am in the everyday joe lives like you and I. I would say most countries your lifestyle is very normal for someone in their 20s. It really bothers me even going to the U.S. and seeing the real extreme lifestyles I grew up around. You see it in people's weight, what they drive, and the house they choose to go into life long debt for. It truly makes no sense to me.
That's so cool!! I've also considered moving abroad, and I've been told my lifestyle would not be considered very extreme. But here... I'm like a freak to some people just because I want to save my money 😅
Thanks for posting this video!
I'm 19 and looking to have financial freedom by the time I'm 30. I save ~90% of my checks while I live at home and will save as much as possible once moving out. These videos motivate me to keep going!
That's sick! Saving while living at home is such a fantastic head start. Sounds like you'll hit financial freedom right after me.
You don't have to have the answer now, but it's a great time to be thinking about what you think you might want to do with your time once financially free. Do you know yet?
I think you're one of the most sparing people I've ever 'met'.
I'm very thrifty, but this is a whole other level.
Yeah I get that a lot lol
This amount of frugality is more than I'd recommend for most (I just enjoy it and am naturally frugal) but I hope it helps to see what's possible.
If I can retire in my 20s, people living "normal" lives can still reach financial freedom too! Which I'm sure you see being thrift yourself :)
@@RunningonFIRE I understand...
When your moment comes..when your F.I.R.E. arrive, consider doing the same as many other North Americans and come to Portugal.
One of the most recent was...Tony Fadell.
He was the one who created the iPod music player from scratch and helped save Apple; led the team that designed and built the iPhone hardware and software, a product that started an authentic digital revolution; founded Nest Labs, a smart home products company.
Anyway, another example among many others who chose Portugal to live.
With just 20,000/25,000 euros per year you can have a good enough and stress-free life here.
@@RunningonFIRE I understand...
When your moment comes..when your F.I.R.E. arrive, consider doing the same as many other North Americans and come to Portugal.
One of the most recent was...Tony Fadell.
He was the one who created the iPod music player from scratch and helped save Apple; led the team that designed and built the iPhone hardware and software, a product that started an authentic digital revolution; founded Nest Labs, a smart home products company.
Anyway, another example among many others who chose Portugal to live.
With just 20.k/25.k euros per year you can have a good enough and stress-free life here.
@@RunningonFIRE
When your moment comes..when your F.I.R.E. arrive, consider doing the same as many other North Americans and come to Portugal.
One of the most recent was...Tony_Fadell.
He was the one who created the iPod music player from scratch and helped save Apple; led the team that designed and built the iPhone hardware and software, a product that started an authentic digital revolution; founded Nest_Labs, a smart home products company.
Anyway, another example among many others who chose Portugal to live.
With just 20,000/25,000k per year you can have a good enough and stress-free life here.
My man is next level for calling Trader Joe’s expensive
I mean, compared to what I'd consider a regular grocery store, it definitely is. I'd save a lot on food if I lived closer to a Costco or even Safeway, but I save more on transportation in my location so it's worth it
Definitely is haha
It is expensive!
I'm a new subscriber. I love frugality channels !!!
Thank you for the advice !! ❤❤😊
@@suefleming thank you!!
I love frugality channels, too, especially the videos about secret middle class millionaires who leave fortunes to worthy causes. My husband was expecting his employer (corporation) to offer another round of downsizing when he was in his mid-fifties. So we maximized his 401K contribution and automatic savings into his credit union. I watched the savings grow, and periodically threw more money into paying off the house early. So the house was paid off after 11 years, etc. Our house, built new in 1985, was not one stick bigger or fancier than we needed!
Can you make a video with what cheap meals you make? Personally, I fin this one of the hardest things to meal prep. I never know what to make.
I've got a video planned on this topic!
I'm not a chef by any means. But things like eggs, rice, beans, and potatoes are really low cost and can be the foundation of a ton of meals.
I'm also experimenting with vegetable chicken soup as the weather gets colder :)
Soups are great any time of the year! Very cost-effective and simple.
Tacos, fajitas, Mexican food you can reuse a lot of items, you can get a pack of 20 tortillas for like $2 at aldi. Oatmeal for breakfast, bobs red mill is like $5 for a 32 oz bag. Write down meals you like and see what ingredients cross over and how you can buy ingredients for less money. Also get rid of snacks I know it’s hard but if you say I only have $30 this week you have to get rid of cookies or choose between chips and cookies. Keeps you healthier too. As you keep doing it your brain adjusts and you naturally cannot spend money because your behavior has to match your frugality brain 😂😂
also invest in something like an instapot you can cook for several meals at once and it saves on utilities
95% of any delicious meal is not the main ingredients, it's what it tastes like. I have found that if I have and use a wide variety of MIXED herbs and spices already blended to relieve me of the trouble, and a large variety of sauces (BBQ, Thai, Mexican, Jamaican, Hawaiian, etc.) then I can put together any basic foods (chicken, potatoes, vegetable) using these flavors and eat gourmet every night!
In some major cities like NYC and LA, TJs is actually one of the cheapest options since they maintain price continuity regardless of the average income of each city (unlike most grocery chains which will charge different prices neighborhood to neighborhood)
That's super interesting. Here its definitely more expensive than the larger grocery store 2 miles down the road, but not by too much if you shop smart
In Manhattan Beach used to be affordable but now they're just as expensive as whole foods 😢
@@rubiferrer2419
Damn, that's upsetting. Hope it doesn't become a trend.
I wish I had the luxury to ride my bike to work. Unfortunately, I have to drive, BUT my car has been paid off for 10 years and I have no issues with it!
That's awesome! That makes a huge difference. I may own a car one day, and I'll definitely prioritize reliability!
I sold my car 4 weeks ago after being convinced I could live without it - I am also walking / biking distance to amenities and work from home (walking distance to bus stops and a 15 min cycle to a train station). I miss the 'convenience' and the thought of having a car now we're heading in to autumn / winter, but realise I just need time to get used to life without a car again (had a car for about 5-6 years), but look forward to being healthier and having more disposable income!
I hope you come to be glad of the decision! Cars can be soooo expensive so I bet you'll see a big difference in savings. It's definitely a transition but sounds like you've got everything you need nearby :)
Lol. After having a vehicle for over 40 years, not sure i could "get used to it" maybe in another country.
I admire your frugality.
Thanks! It's not for everyone, but it REALLY helps in reaching financial freedom
I love how real you are about your day and comparing it to the typical consumer! I live pretty frugally too, so I can totally relate. But I do get comments from family and friends sometimes, and it feels like people are judging. Do you ever feel like others think your lifestyle is odd?
Oh 100%. But most people are supportive.
And the thing is... I think their lifestyles are pretty odd. I have no interest in working a job I don't like until I'm 70. So it doesn't bother me :)
I have a lot of these same habits. Saved 50%+, biked to work, frozen food or went home to eat lunch.
Pro tip: if the market crashes again like in 2008 buy more house than you think you need.
That's the way to do it! That's awesome.
The buying a house is the tricky thing. It might be the right financial decision to buy, but my hunch is I'll move a few times so I'm really hesitant. So renting is not just a financial decision for me
I live alone, and have a 1,700 square ft., two story house. Two bedrooms and bath upstairs with balconies off each huge bedroom. If things go really sideways, I can rent one or both of the bedrooms and sleep downstairs. I can also use it as a live-in assistance arrangement so I don't have to go to a nursing home or assisted living.
This is so cool to watch. I’m from the DMV area, and it’s cool to see you working in tech in northern Virginia!
I was literally just applying to tech internships for defense companies in nova yesterday lol.
I’m a college freshman and financial freedom is a HUGE thing for me. My goal is $1m by 30. It’s gonna be a wild ride and I’d rather set an unrealistic goal, since it keeps things fun. You’re an inspiration. Keep it up.
That's sick! If you send me an email (charles@running-on-fire.com) I can tell you where I work and maybe drop a referral for you.
Ambitious goals are fun, as long as you enjoy the ride! Looking forward to seeing your journey
Just found your channel. To me your day is normal. I am 57. The way people live has drastically changed over the decades. 🇦🇺
100%. A hundred years ago, everything I have would still be considered a luxury. But where I am, people think I'm extreme
21 yr old Uni student here, I am a frugal guy but my friends confuse me for being cheap. I don’t mind and care much about it but when there is a big group of people or your community and everyone thinks this way it gets tough. I feel the best thing to do is just grind as you are doing and be financially free and prove them you were never cheap and just had bigger plans than what they could imagine!
You're on the right track.
I'll also say this: the people you want the approval of now are not the same people that will be in your life in 10 years from now when you're achieving everything you want.
Don't worry about doing it to "prove them wrong"
Do it for you
@ yes that’s correct! Never thought about 10 years down the road on this one
It’s cool to see you spend money on the kickboxing membership! Allocating your money towards what matters and cutting costs to things that don’t.
Totally, it's definitely possible to still spend money on your priorities.
But not everything can be a priority 😅
So for achieving fire quickly, he is sacrificing little indulgences and missing out on life and seeing every bit of other people's desire as waste! What will he do with all that money in his late 50’s? Every age group has its own charm. Frugality is good to the point that you don't spend money on unnecessary stuff, but not chain yourself from every desire!
Hey there! Here's how I think about it. You could say I'm "sacrificing indulgences", but I think everyone else is sacrificing their lives (working until their 60s) just to buy little indulgences!
I plan to give the vast majority (all?) of my money to charity; I'm really into the effective altruism movement, and I think my money could do much more good there than by spending it on myself. Believe it or not, I actually do prefer living simply and frugally (I won't be THIS frugal forever, but it's worth it be financially free faster :) )
But not everyone will want to live my lifestyle, and that's okay! All about finding your balance. Many people could live half as frugal and STILL retire early! (just probably not before 30)
Much love
I know a huge amount of people who lived somewhat Spartanly in their 20s, including me, to save money , also because we were living abroad so there is not a lot of point in having a beautiful things you can’t take back with you. But you can and people do live that way in their home countries as well. Party people in their 20s seem to not know that this is how a large group of people do live, with the future in mind. I was lucky to meet them and adopt some good habits.
@@RunningonFIREwhat's your perspective on starting a family? Most fire people dropout once they start a family because that changes their perspective and goals.
Awesome to hear that you're an effective altruist!
@@FalseGiggle I'd love to make some videos about this in the future
It seems so logical and natural to live like this instead of endless overconsumption. But after watching I caught myself on a thought "I can live like this too just after buying this last item I really need" and its scary because I definitely do NOT need this item. All I wanted to say is youre a very strong person to resist all marketing shit and your own greed and desires. And thank you for inspiration!
One thing that's really helped me is thinking about in terms of tradeoffs.
I know I would like to buy more things. But the choice isn't between "having the thing" and "not having the thing"
The choice is "would i rather have this thing or have more time"
For me, the answer is almost always that I'd rather have more time.
Very few people are willing to put in the effort to become financially free. They can't handle delayed gratification, which is the key to reach that. You are doing exactly that: compromising on things that would make you happy now to be even happier and freer in the future.
100%! Although I'll add that I really don't think I'd be much happier if I spent more... I just want freedom with my time!
@@RunningonFIRE Couldn't agree more, man. Having less usually means more happiness. Most people do not understand that, especially due to all the capitalist and consumerist bs we've been sold.
This video was just what I needed. I really need to and CAN easily cut down eating out and my grocery bill.
100%!!! There's almost always room. You got it!
So you use credit card ls to maximum return on spend ?
I do use a credit card. I'm not a super credit card guru, but might as well use them for purchases you're going to make!
I have a very similar lifestyle/habits...I never consider it "extreme" really.... I have what I need, and don't lack for anything. It's a simple and happy lifestyle really.
Exactly my point at the end! My life is still downright luxurious compared to the average lifestyle of an American 100 years ago. Working my whole life just to afford even more luxuries seems a lot more "extreme" to me
I'm glad you've found your contentment :)
You’re living my life in my 20s. But it’s A lot harder to pull off if you have a family, make sure you include them in the financial plan if you plan to start one!
100%. I haven't decided yet, but I know I'll be happy I have the savings I'm creating now if I do have a family.
Save/invest 25%, spend no more than 28% on living expenses, and, if needed, no more than 8% on vehicle expenses. Anything that is left over after taxes, can be used for leisure. That way you can still enjoy life and not be a complete miser.
I think I'd enjoy my life more if I had an extra couple decades of financial freedom. That plan probably would work great for a lot of people, but that would be a LOT of money on leisure for me
Good for you for choosing a lifestyle that fits your goals. You seem to be doing great.
The only thing I don't understand is why you feel the need to disparate other people's choices just because they are not the ones you would choose. So what if other people buy lunch at the cafeteria every day or buy big homes and cars. They have a right to live the life that gives them the most satisfaction. Just because it's not what you would choose does not make their choices any less valid than yours.
It just comes across like you are trying too hard to put their choices down to elevate yours. Both choices are valid at the same time - it's called freedom.
Hey there, didn't mean to come across as so rude!
It just befuddles me. And I think a lot of people make those decisions without even realizing there's another option.
And that's why I make these videos, to show people there's another way :)
Also asking questions that are answerable as if they are rhetorical is super annoying, it’s like bragging you haven’t bothered to learn, bragging you have no empathy.
People enjoy a freshly made hot meal, they enjoy not spending Sunday meal prepping, it’s very civilised to have a work cafeteria, I loved it so much the one time I had it.
I like videos about people doing their thing and about frugality, I like your videos but the stupid rhetorical questions are annoying. It’s not just you, so many people do it. Have the courage to tell the truth- you don’t “not know why”, you believe them to be stupid and wasteful, or whatever you think. I wish people would state their hypotheses so then a discussion could occur about them instead.
@@RunningonFIREI know my comment is harsh and I don’t really mean it very harshly. I do like your videos a lot.
@@RunningonFIRE you weren't rude. You shared your opinion and it was fair and civil.
@@RunningonFIRE
I sort a agree with what their noticing about your
observations of others ways of spending. This society we live in is, definitely messed up in financial health. some can't even enjoy a meal without feeling its going to cost later. Sum hav to spend way over what they want, cos they've been programmed that's what you do. they
end up suffering..
If your proud of yourself for saving, collecting, nothing wrong with that..
I do know people who
never enjoyed the money they earned..
I mean, it’s one way to live your life. I admire your frugality in general.
I didnt hear anything about partners, kids, pets, friends, socializing. Seems a bit insular. Again, to each his own. But your philosophy on FIRE and owning your own time is def on point.
I've been really busy. I get a lot of social time at the gym, but I definitely don't have kids or pets right now.
But I know that being financially free will make all of those things easier if I want them one day. But right now I'm just focused on achieving that goal
Thanks for the inspirational video!
Guy has really unlocked the secret to min-maxing EDL (every day life). He is so frugal, he doesn't even pay attention.
But the real fly in the ointment is the outrageous health/insurance costs in the states. A catastrophic illness can really wipe out any savings, forcing some to file for bankruptcy.
Keep up the good work!
For sure, health insurance is essential. It's a rough system.
Thanks for the kind words! Life is easy when you save by default
If being frugal makes u happy then by all means more power to ya.
Life is too short for me to live this way.
The way I think about it, life is too long to not invest my time now to become financially free!
@@RunningonFIRE u can still live without being frugal and still invest time to be able to be financially free later on.
@@paulogotera4412 yup, but investing early is more powerful than investing later. Personally, I'd rather just speed run to early retirement. Not that far off now, anyway
Having a like minded GF/BF is really important too.
Trader Joe’s is my cheapest choice in NYC 😂.
Suuuuper important. I couldn't date someone that isn't also really serious about saving, to be honest.
I bet NYC is EXPENSIVE, but hope you're making enough to make it worth it 😅
I won't mind spending or sharing something with my partner if they know how to 100% appreciate it like recycling plastic bags, not wasting food even the gravy, etc.
Need to see your "eating well", complete menu for the week.
I watched the entire vid! You say you're not depriving yourself of anything, yet you're depriving yourself of interpersonal relationships, like a significant other (temporary or longer term). It's not a critique of anything, just an observation. Thanks.😁
That's true in a way, but only because i haven't had interest recently.
And of course, I'll have a lot more time for that once I'm financial free. But right now I'm investing a lot of time in work, a masters degree, and this channel
Keep up the hard work and the grind on youtube
Great video! Thanks for sharing your daily routine, I appreciated you sharing specifics about your job and pricing in your area.
Thank you, and of course!
Appreciate you sharing!
I know this sounds weird but set a time limit for the grocery store. Like 30 minutes. Get in and get out because if you don’t you will spend more money. And get your budget in cash and make it $10 less to see how many meals you could get. Your brain will adjust to the lifestyle
Totally!!! I wrote a blog post a long time ago about "treating stores like enemy territory." Get in, do what you need, and get out. Spending longer in a place designed to make you spend money is not going to do you ANY favors
@@RunningonFIRE amazing!!! I just realized this as I changed my lifestyle it’s like my brain is helping me as I go along 😂
That's great but, trust me, it does become more difficult when you have kids. With 3 kids and now 5 grand kids it's hard to get by without a car and a house and the cost of their education. You're priorities change somewhat but well done for getting ahead of the game.
Of course, no doubt. No matter what, that's another person to care for!
One of my motivations is to have my financial freedom before I have kids (if I ever do)
Do you rent an apartment? Rent an house? Rent a condo? Or have a mortgage on house?
It’s a reminder for me too! Thank you for this video ❤
This video relateable...
Rode a bike to work for years to avoid costs... I used to buy a 40p soup at work for lunch for years..
I earn pretty good money nowadays.. but i really havent let lifestyle creep much at all.. just a bit more balance with kids and stuff
I just dont like the idea of being beholdent to work... Dont let your lifestyle creep, dont take on much debt.. and you can kinda have your independence
That sounds like a beautiful life to me. Money buys freedom or time, and I'd rather buy my time. And it really is a lifestyle; I'm sure I'll become a little less frugal eventually, but this really is how I like to live. Congratulations on your success!
@@RunningonFIRE thought I might also drop this tid bit, since you seem of a similar mind.
People generally undervalue small expenses, like lunch, £5 here or there on a nice coffee. Or even selling an old pair of trousers for £5 on eBay to make a bit of money.
To earn £5 in interest in a bank account each year you'd need to have £100 in that account. That's after you've paid tax your salary, so even more had to be earned originally.. £120-140.
Basically don't overlook the he value of making/losing small bits of money... As they need much more capital to earn passively.
I live basically the same except for renting. I also live in northern Virginia and I bought a small home and rent out the rooms to make my total housing payment only $370 per month. The difference is that my roommates are paying down a home and earning equity for me. That's huge
For me I also increase savings by avoiding all consumables whenever possible. I use washcloths instead of paper towels, I use a bidet instead of TP, I just drink water and black coffee, and I use the same cheap soap for everything. Over all it saves about $3k per year compared to the average consumer. It isn't even a sacrifice, as I don't care about those things anyway, and not having paper products is seen as a luxury
If I knew I'd be in NoVa for 10+ years I'd do the exact same thing!
Sounds like you're doing all the right things. Better for the planet and your wallet ❤️
$94,000 is not much. Some people make more than that annually and cannot afford those homes. It goes to show how many Americans are in debt/have mortgages. Everyone trying to impress others. Being debt-free is freedom.
@Observer100-cn7gv I totally agree. 94k is great for starting out of college, but definitely not enough to buy a 1.5m house until you've saved for a long time! I don't see the appeal of having a huge house, honestly
Fellow NOVA resident here, thanks for this video!
Oh awesome! YT is pushing to more local people on this one I think 😅
Financial freedom is important
I live in nova too trust me man you aren't alone with needing to live with frugality. I know many people including myself that need to do this to survive. It's insane
100%, it's an insanely expensive area.
When people ask me if I feel deprived living frugally, I remind them that many people live on less and don't have a choice.
Best of luck on your journey ❤️
@RunningonFIRE exactly, best way to enjoy life is being content with the little things!
What is that calculator you show at the beginning of the video. Want to see where I am at.
Are you talking about this one? networthify.com/calculator/earlyretirement?income=50000&initialBalance=0&expenses=20000&annualPct=5&withdrawalRate=4
I dont have much to say but I admire your consistency
Much love ❤️
Definitely motivating! I like to have several different income streams from side hustles that flow into investments which then grow my money overtime. I do have an ordering takeout addiction but hearing this is my sign to start saving now. Great video!
You know, I've never gotten into all the side hustles. I like to focus on just one or two things and really maximize them. But sounds like you're doing a lot of the right things! Saving more will go a LONG way, though
Good for you. You're effective and efficient and you live a simple life. It doesn't seem like you're depriving yourself of things. Other people might criticise but most people's expenses are oversized homes, vehicle bills and taxes (when they're high earners).
Once you do have a bit more saved up, you may leave your job, or go travelling for a bit, or live somewhere more rural. You may want to go for a few adventures, or live abroad, or work remotely and there's no harm in having money in the bank. Even what you have already is a lot of money everywhere outside the US metros, and definitely enough in other countries.
Spending money on stuff does not necessarily equal happiness. You need enough for essentials and the odd luxury, and to not have to worry about a lack of money. You're a healthy, chill, intelligent, young man with money in the bank, and routines, and that puts you ahead of most Americans who are suffering from chronic stress and illness. The obsession with FIRE will pass once you have enough and then you'll really discover yourself and what you want to put your life towards.
100%!!!
I always say I'd rather be "deprived" of things than deprived of my time.
I haven't decided what I'll do with that time, but probably a lot of the things you just mentioned!
I'm 59 and married. We have an 84 year old housemate. She's not related to either of us. Just a. friend. We each have our own spaces and shared spaces including a big yard. A lot of people wouldn't live with a housemate married and at my age. But, it's actually quite nice and saves so much money. I would highly recommend especially younger people living with olders.
That's awesome! Probably the most powerful way to save money, and it does work at any age
I’m starting intermittent fasting as well. I’m going to do an eight hour window . plus, I’m going to start meal prepping in order to reduce food waste.
Awesome! I really like doing it that way. Hope you do too!
I’m living this same lifestyle after how expensive everything else has gotten… just to afford 15y/o tech that can bring me off the grid. Been doing all I could to foster human connections in this increasingly asocial all work/no play worldview.
Thank you for this video mate it's nice to hear stories of being frugal with money, I'm interested in learning how to save more money, I don't drive either and the most annoying thing is when certain people will question why you're not driving and tell you the typical argument driving gives you independence which it does but what they don't consider is how expensive it is to maintain a vehicle.
Driving gives you independence... but so does having a bunch of savings!!!
You can always say you do it for the environment too. I've found that works well to stop objections.
Let me tell you, invest in ANY road bike that looks road worthy. I did the same thing you did and somebody gifted me a road bike, way more fun to ride and you will see a time improvement between rides home to work so you have more time.
Thanks for the tip! My bike is definitely on its last legs so I'll probably need a new one soon :)
@@RunningonFIRE Consider an E-Bike. All you do is shut it off to get exercise yet if you need to get somewhere further down the road, you have that ability.
Nice video to get ideas on how to save money. It really change everything.
If time is money, then money is freedom! It makes a huge difference
Hi from the Baltic Sea! Really enjoyed your video, keep posting :)
Thanks so much! I've got a lot more videos to make :)
Happy to watch any day in your life videos. Very interesting
Much love ❤️
Love the content, gonna binge today 🙏🏽 50k left on my mortgage at 28, hoping I can knock it out in a few years
Thanks!!! And that's sweet, owning a property in your 20s is a big deal. That will be a huge asset!
Great video, your essay/video style reminds of 'How To With John Wilson'
I'll have to check him out!
Practical advice, but very personal and situational. I live in NJ. Married with 3 kids. I travel often for work so I cannot do a lot of the savings steps you outline. Interesting video nonetheless.
Absolutely, hopefully some of my other videos have ideas that work for you!
Just wanted to document how I'm personally doing it :)
When you feel love everything else is just a bonus
Good for you! I'm confident you'll see your goal
Thanks! Can't argue with good old math :) I'm making progress
I love extreme frugality videos, I am not extremely frugal, but I do live way under my means, and I think I live a life of luxury. I do the same with extreme minimalists, I am a regular run of the mill minimalist, but when I see someone who lives on 47 items, I feel like wow I have so much stuff. LOL
To be honest, I don't even feel like I'm that extremely frugal either. I'm pretty minimalist, but it's not like I'm living in a van. But even a little frugality seems extreme to a lot of people 😅
You have a great mindset, and that will take you far!
It'll sure take me to financial freedom! Much love ❤️
People assume being vegan is expensive, however I spend about $50 a week on groceries. Especially if you eat rice, beans, vegetables and fruit
100%!!! It can be a little bit of a challenge to get enough protein depending on your lifestyle, but it doesn't have to be that expensive
I spend $28 a week on food, mostly organic. Shop carefully, meal plan, use all leftovers, learn how to cook. I am in very good health.
I'm the most frugal person i know. Buying things it's off the table.
Don't buy anything.pay bills. food. my kids get me stuf. but I've been able to help them,
so..
Just wondering what you do for socialising, buying presents etc?
Good questions!
A lot of my social time is at the gym. I'm still pretty new to the area, too.
Holidays aren't huge in my family. We usually give acts of service rather than clutter; almost everyone in my family is a minimalist and both parents are downsizing :)
As someone who’s from DC I understand biking in the city, but would never think that it would be accessible in NOVA. I’m assuming you’re pretty close to work which is great. As for food I’m fortunate that my job offers free breakfast and lunch so I only need meals for the weekend. I will say that I disagree with the notion that Trader Joe’s is expensive.
I live right next to a bus stop which can take me to Orange and Silver line, it's not too bad.
You're not the first to say Trader Joe's is expensive... but it's the most expensive store I've ever shopped at lol
New subscriber here. Outstanding channel and looking forward to your future videos.
Thanks!! Really appreciate that ❤️
People don't understand that financial freedom is spiritual freedom. They see it as living like a monk, with none of the pleasures that we "deserve." I think one of the lessons we are here on earth to learn, is to learn to live without those things of earth.
I'd rather be "deprived" of things I don't really need than be deprived of my time, which I value so much more!
Really that's not a life lesson. The earth didn't have cars and material things when we got here so doubt that's the lesson. But ya I've always lived that way. I rather have my freedom then work and have lots of money.
@@ChrisJericho-yf4db I can imagine that even the cavemen were territorial, and valued the land that provided food and shelter. I can believe that what they valued had more to do with survival of the tribes/groups. Maybe whoever had the coveted area on the side of a mountain that had caves, and a lot of land along the water where they could fish, would make other tribes jealous and want to fight to take it away from them. If we are on a spiritual/soul journey, then we must eventually learn to let go of earthly wants/needs, otherwise we remain too earthbound. But I believe in reincarnation, so if we are here over many, many lifetimes, we evolved out of the stone age and will reincarnate into the future. But this is a material world by design, and evolution happens over millennia.
Interesting. What would it look like when you have a family? Do you think you’d still be able to manage as well?
I'd definitely have to spend more, of course. Kids need to eat, after all.
But the reason I'm living like this now is so I can be financially free and afford to be a more present father, if I ever become one :)
Nothing particularly bad or particularly good about this. Everyone’s different. Do what makes u feel fulfilled.
Absolutely.
Although, I think it would be a lot easier for more people to live a fulfilling life if they had financial freedom and could spend time pursuing their values.
What do you recommend to learn first to get a job as a data analyst at entry level?
Honestly it's hard for me to say; I did a traditional college approach with a CS degree and found my way into my current job through an internship. Now I do more task management stuff.
There's tons of courses on coursera that will teach you a lot of skills, but the hardest part is just finding an internship or first job to get your foot in the door. Look for ways to build up a portfolio of projects.
@@RunningonFIRE Thank you. Yea, I finished up an IT bootcamp and I’m having trouble finding and entry level position even it it’s low pay. I’ve started the google cybersecurity course on coursera so, hopefully that will lead somewhere. Great channel 👍🏻
5:42 so the town house has 3 beds and 3 baths? 1 for each roommate?
4, actually. Three roommates plus me
You're the MMM of the new generation. Well-presented and summarized information as to how to get to an insane savings rate. It really is just math. Personally, I embrace more of a mustache-lite philosophy and have about a 50% savings rate. Good luck in your journey!
Wow that is such a huge complicated, you have no idea...
I learned so much from MMM. He introduced me to FIRE as a lost high schooler, and I've been obsessed with it since!
Thanks so much for dropping by, and sweet savings rate!