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Old 12-24-2006, 02:53 PM   #5 (permalink)
tc33
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Join Date: Nov 2006
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My personal solution to this dilemma is to achieve financial independence (FI). One of the few smart things I did when I was 22 (7 years ago) was become a finance geek. I remember thinking to myself, "no matter where I go, no matter what I do, I'm going to need money." So I saved, learned about finances, LBYM (live below your means), and adopted a non-materialistic mindset. I continue to save and invest a large percentage of my income, and will continue to do so until I reach FI, which is expected to occur in about 13 years (I'll be around 42).

A few years ago I realized that working an unfulfilling job that paid well wasn't a sustainable solution. Fortunately I was able to discover a new career which tapped into my passion and paid pretty well at the same time. If I can continue on this career path until I reach FI, I'll be all set.

However, this is obviously the 'slow and safe' route as compared to the entrepreneurial mindset which seems to dominate here. My passion does not allow me to start my own business (I'm in the military), but yours might. If you are unable to start your own business for whatever reason, you may choose to live incongruently for a while or find a career that's more closely aligned with your values while working towards financial independence. Regardless, remember this: no matter where you go, no matter what you do, you're going to need money

Tom
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