Don’t mistake the finger for the moon.
The goal of retiring by 50 isn’t “not working” (the finger).
The goal is to achieve the freedom to fill your life as you choose (the moon). That’s easier said than done.
We go through life with our path chosen for us, going from parents to teachers to bosses.
Then you retire at 50 and there is no path.
And that paralyzes people.
If you cruise the early retirement subreddits, you’ll see plenty of stories of people who didn’t plan for their “post-paycheck” chapter.
Most of them feel rudderless, searching for meaning in their lives that their careers used to provide.
Many even end up back at work because they can’t think of anything better to do.
The #1 way to blow your early retirement is to retire FROM work instead of TO your next chapter.
Figuring out what’s on the other side actually takes more “work” than your career did.
Cutting your own path through the jungle is a lot harder than following someone else’s.
But it’s also crucial if you’re going to enjoy your post-work life.
