by It’s been an exciting journey towards financial independence (FI), and we’ve just hit a major milestone—our Freedom Fund is now 72% full! This achievement feels like entering the final stretch of a long race, and we’re more motivated than ever to reach the finish line. Let’s take a moment to reflect on our progress and look ahead to what’s next.
The Power of Staying the Course
March brought a sigh of relief as the stock market rebounded, erasing the losses from January and February. While these monthly fluctuations can be nerve-wracking, we’ve learned the importance of staying the course. Our investments are in it for the long haul, and this approach has served us well.
Reaching 72% of our nest egg goal is more than just a number—it’s a symbol of our dedication and progress. It’s like starting your senior year of high school or seeing your gas tank three-quarters full. You know you’ve come a long way, and the end is in sight.
Our FI Journey: A Look Back
When we married just over two years ago, our combined nest egg was only 35% of our goal. The turning point came when I read “Your Money or Your Life” in May 2012. This book opened our eyes to the possibility of early retirement and complete financial control.
Since then, we’ve been on a mission to cut unnecessary expenses, boost our savings, and invest wisely. Our quarterly progress chart shows the steady climb:
Here’s a breakdown of our journey:
- 40-50%: 6 months (Market was booming)
- 50-60%: 7 months (Market slowed down)
- 60-72%: 11 months (Market was mostly a drag)
What’s in Our Nest Egg?
Our Freedom Fund consists of mutual fund investments, short-term reserves, and real estate property. We maintain a balanced asset allocation aligned with our goals and rebalance as needed.
The Road Ahead
If our current trajectory continues and the market cooperates, we estimate reaching 100% of our goal in less than 30 months. That’s less than three years away from declaring financial independence and potentially moving abroad!
But we’re not in a rush. We’re enjoying the journey, cooking healthy meals at home, traveling often, and cherishing time with loved ones. The prospect of early retirement is exciting, but we’re making sure to live fully in the present.
What’s Your Freedom Fund Story?
We’d love to hear from you! What excites you about the idea of financial independence? How far along are you in your journey? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below.
Remember, the path to financial freedom is unique for everyone. Whether you’re just starting out or nearing your goal, every step forward is worth celebrating. Keep saving, keep investing, and keep believing in your financial future!
