Embracing Discomfort: Our Journey to Financial Freedom

Remember that scorching summer day when you cranked up the AC and felt a twinge of guilt looking at your electricity bill? Well, my partner and I decided to take a different approach this year. We're on a mission to achieve financial independence, and we've discovered that a little discomfort can lead to significant savings. Let me share our story. Photo by Airam Dato-on on Pexels.com The Great AC Dilemma When we moved into our new two-story home, we faced a challenge: no central air conditioning. Our landlord only allowed portable units to protect the window frames. Have you seen the price tags on those things? $300 to $500 each! The thought of spending that much on something we'd have to sell when we move abroad post-retirement m

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José

José concluded his distinguished 13-year career at Vanguard at age 44, stepping away from corporate life to embrace an early retirement. As a project manager, he expertly orchestrated the creation and delivery of educational materials—both digital and print—for 401(k) participants, ensuring resources reached millions of investors. Today, he embraces life's simpler pleasures: quality time with family, pursuit of passion projects, discovery of new adventures, and leisurely meals in his garden oasis.

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MrEnchumbao
9 years ago

Hi Ryan,
Yes, it’s a great rule, no matter what multiples you use.
I used the underwater cellphone comparison to stress the ridiculousness of what’s out there. Thanks for providing ideas for future articles. We’re definitely going to be doing more on travel spending/hacking. I spend $0 on haircuts, how about that???

I noticed you’re a chemistry teacher. As long you don’t ask us to write about chemistry, we should be good! 🙂 Chem was my worst high school subject. Thanks for commenting!

Elizabeth Grahsl
Elizabeth Grahsl
9 years ago

Love this post! This really hits home, especially the Multiply by 25 Rule. I think I read something similar on Mr Money Mustache awhile back which
prompted me to write a post called “Convenience is the Enemy” recently
on my blog. In addition, while it may be a cliche to be reminded of the “starving kids in Africa” to elicit guilt about waste, it’s a gut-wrenchingly real issue. I try to travel to the third world every few years at least in order to be reminded of how much I take for granted – and be inspired to give back.

MrEnchumbao
9 years ago

Hi Elizabeth! The Mx25 Rule is an awesome guideline to figure how much you need. MMM has covered a lot of ground so I’m not surprised that he provides many of us with inspiration. I guess if Convenience is the Enemy than a slight inconvenience is your friend! I’m definitely going to read your post.
Yes! Traveling and seeing poverty with your own eyes gives you a different perspective on things. We tend to visit the Dominican Republic a lot and every time I see a child selling fruits or services and trying to make a living, after school, reminds me of how fortunate we are and as you mentioned, it inspires you to give back. Thanks for dropping in!

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