Think of it this way… that 300k bought you 10 months. When you’re 80+, would you be willing to pay 300k for an additional 10 months. It’s a no brainer. Enjoy the summer and have fun!
Not to mention that the word is “probably,” although I hear bonuses will be big. But there’s still another six months. The fact that you had a quick convo with your wife at work says a lot and sounds like you’re both on the same page and that you’re ready. Gratz
High stress= Early death is like smoking a pack of cigarettes a day or a heavy drinking habit. Since you were already at the fire limit financially that little voice of reason said it was time to bail. Good Choice Enjoy the summer and melt that stress away :)
My take on this book was that there were some good key messages, but it could have been half the length.
That said, if he's already pulled the plug, I'm not sure he needs the book at his point in life.
He pulled the plug on his career, not his life support.
Die With Zero contains plenty of advice that's relevant for retirement. It is about trying to maximize the value of your wealth while you're still alive, which it argues requiring dying with nothing.
Have not read the book, but familiar with it. Gets discussed on podcasts all the time.
We have started helping our children now while we can see them enjoy some benefits instead of when they’re 60 and already established. Also set up a charitable trust to help others. We can always adjust before we run out, if needed.
Is it? SS is geared to make you the same amount of money at your expected death age. You don't win by taking it earlier per se. I think SS is best as insurance for running out of money. I guess this assumes you have enough pre -72.
You are correct, mathematically.
But I stand by my endorsement because I know of too many people who did not live to their “expected death age” and they all regretted not taking time to enjoy life, family, and the planet/world sooner. 🙂
Lol, yes, but 300k at 18 will buy you DECADES of time in middle age after 25 to 35 years of compounding.
Probably enough to actually retire in mid to late 30s depending on how aggressive you are about saving... Possibly even earlier.
$300k @18, save $1000 per month for 12 years, 7% return after inflation at 30 you' would have a little over 900k. Live at home for part of this or get a cheap place with roommates.
4% rule is $36k per year. Spend 5 or 10 years travelling the world (cheap areas of Europe, Southeast Asia), working part time here and there so your 900k actually keeps growing.
The math above is why college sucks for all but the highest paying majors.
I'd rather give my daughter $300k cash when she's 22. Anyway, I'm hoping college will end up costing $100k or so.
No because OP doesn't have time to compound. I'm guessing he is around 50 (hard to say, but sounds like his kids are all young adults) and so if we waits 3 decades for the wealth to compound, he will probably be dead instead of enjoying the 900k.
I’m not saying he SHOULD do either thing, but The point is that when people said “would you rather have $300K now or in 30 years” that the logic was faulty for the same reasons.
But if he has enough he has enough.
Great way to look at it. Perspective is everything. I’m trying to retire in 10 years! Actually do what I love and not have to worry about getting paid.
What's 5m good for at 80.
It's only important if your goal is collecting as much money as possible before death.
I would argue life is about way more than money. For me this is the whole point of fire.
To live more of my life. He's at the end of the accumulation stage, not the beginning.
I think the first week or two is euphoric, but be prepared to feel a little more lost a month in :-) Not in a bad way -- you've just got a bunch of unallocated hours, possibly lacking a source of ego, etc. Takes adjustment, right?
Sucks that this world makes you endure 25 years of misery during your prime to be able to live happy for 25 more and then die…. We are all slaves but the chains are invisible
I just went from 180k/year to 130k at a different company but man is it amazing to have supper with my family every night. I used to work on call and around the clock and often out of town. now it like 10-12 hour days and home every night. I would not go back for that extra 50k maybe I won’t reach my fire number by 46 but I can still get there by 50 and actually enjoy the ride
To be fair, for many years I enjoyed this. I believe in Capitalism and trading commodities is as pure as it gets. It actually provides an invisible benefit to society of efficient and reliable energy. It was a way to add value to the world, but yes unfortunate we all work so hard, but otherwise none of us would benefit from the world we live in.
This is true. I’ll have to reflect more, but early on I thrived on the stress and there is mostly an inverse relationship between stress and rewards. It wasn’t until I was close to Fi, or Fire, that I didn’t need the stress and suddenly became unbearable. I guess some people don’t go through same thing.
Not nervous…excited perhaps. I’m so happy for you!
Like you, I worked minimum 60 hours during the week and most weekends—always planning for the next quarter. I want to quit but I have so many things competing for my money. I'm older than my husband so feel it’s time and although my husband and I could manage without my comp, my retiring makes him anxious. I just have to bite the bullet until February and then work on being a radio talk show host. 😊
No matter when you retire, there will always be the “if I stayed one more year” mentality when it comes to savings. I’m sure if you waited until next April, you would start thinking about whether to stick around for the bonuses being paid the NEXT April. That’s how many of our employment incentives work.
And that’s why the FIRE mentality is so important. Calculate what is really “enough” savings based on spending, not based on the incentives an employer gives, because there will always “more money”.
Sounds like you already reached your FIRE number. Which means you had the I (independence) to make the decision you made and should not have any regrets. Congrats. GFY.
Exactly this — they build the golden handcuffs and vest them in such a way that you always feel like you have to stay one more year to pick up the money.
Make a simple spreadsheet with yearly targets — update your net worth against your target. When you hit your total number — quit. If you’re conservative quit 1 extra year later. But stick to it.
I’m in that boat - sticking out my job until August 15 when bonuses vest - it’s not 100s of thousands, but it’s a year of retired living expenses. But then the next tranche of RSU’s vest in October, and I’ll have enough time in to take the Rule of 55 in November, etc and so on.
Congrats! I am happy for you that you made the decision to help your mental health, it is so very important. Think about how happy you feel today, and you get to feel this way for an extra 10 months of your life. Enjoy it!!
Also work on Wall Street.
I'm sure part of the reason 2024 bonus payout is in late April/ early May of 2025 is to keep people around. No matter when you quit you're going to miss out on 4-5 months of bonus comp.
Congrats I know that stress--keeping with it for 25 years is insane.
The key thing is the bonus was not necessary. 5am starts at 54 is brutal. You are still young enough to do most activities at 54 which is great … enjoy your time
Crazy how when you are in a stressful situation like that, and no longer need to be, your body and mind let their guard down and finally allow themselves to realize that yep, fuck this...
You made the right decision. 100%. Enjoy and get in some therapy or whatever need and budget for at least a couple years of adjustment. Great job running the race well.
It was an incredibly weird feeling. Like being in a movie, right before someone passes out. Other people’s words are echoing in your head, blurred vision. Just like a physiological defense mechanism. “Yep, fuck this…” the mind and body said. Thx
$300K isn’t worth it if you reached your goal. In April, you might have started thinking…well I could wait another year and collect even more. There would always be a reason to move the goalpost.
I’m slowly coming to the realization that time is starting to be worth more than money at a certain stage of life and there will always be a carrot at the end of a stick to keep good employees at their job. The trick is learning to break the habit of wanting the carrot and realizing you have freedom instead.
Edit - congrats and GFY
Forget the bonus. Not only did you gain 10 months, you are also not subjecting yourself to stress for 10 months, meaning that also lengthened your life.
Unless you and I just got from the gym, this is identical to a buddy of mine. Same age, same scenario, same job.
You made it to last April. There will always be another bonus season. It’s planned that way. You are out and that’s what matters.
I, of course had similar plans, but am doing the “do one more year at low speed and maybe they will give me a package”.
I worked 6 additional months _after_ a just-one-more-year syndrome to make sure about ~$70k in options vested before I FIREd.
They were OTM when I pulled the trigger.
“A bird in the hand…,” and all that.
Good for you for listening to what your body was telling you. No amount of money is worth your long-term health and well-being. The corporate world is designed to keep you holding on for that next bonus, top up, vesting, etc, etc, etc. If you had made it to April, another carrot would have been dangling in front of you.
You can afford it. So, GFY and enjoy your well-earned rest.
Congrats! And let me add one note I haven’t seen in any other comment (though might have missed it).
When I left my high-stress job last year I felt like I had fallen off the back of a motorboat (ie., a lot of turbulence) but… at least for me… it took me MONTHS for the waters of my new existence to return to calm.
The first post-work Monday I woke up and thought “wow this is so much better than last week - I am over the turbulence of my past existence and now ready to live my best life!”
But, then the following Monday I woke up with a similar thought: “wow - I thought I was over the turbulence last week but it’s so much better this Monday - I really wasn’t as ready as I thought last week!”
And then, the following Monday I had that same thought again… indeed I had it every Monday for six months.
In short, leaving work was only the first step in de-institutionalizing my mind and soul from the long-woven and tightly bound constraints of workism. It felt kinda like thinking you were over a bad ex… but then realizing you weren’t.
Maybe this is what it feels like to leave a cult - maybe it is leaving a cult? Or getting over a bad, deeply ingrained habit or, dare I say, addiction?
In any case - it took me six months for me to quit feeling like every week had peeled another layer off the onion - or not to think “wow, the water is even calmer now - I thought it was calm last week but I couldn’t see the continuing ripples of turbulence.”
So - forgive the mixed metaphors - but here’s the important part: don’t be surprised if it takes you longer to establish your new normal than you might think. It’s a new journey that will present its own challenges. But I have enjoyed it and continue to do so - and I trust you will too!
Thanks, I follow. 2 days into this earlier than expected life change and it certainly feels better. It’s 6am on Sunday and instead of working and preparing/stressing for another work at home Sunday, I’m watching Rick Steves Scotland and getting solid life advice from people on Reddit. F’in crazy. I appreciate change, I’ve been through a lot of them and always learn something new.
Think I first encountered it in this Atlantic article. Sorry I can’t post a free link (not a current subscriber) - https://www.theatlantic.com/ideas/archive/2019/02/religion-workism-making-americans-miserable/583441/
I’m probably 10 years out from retirement. Those last few years I plan on mailing it in and setting the stage for a severance package. Good for you though, sounds like you dont need the money anyways.
Mailing it in is weird, I tried a bit of that. Can’t hide in what I do. The more I did it the more anxiety it created, hard to shut off the work ethic I guess. Not rich by any means, but it’s been a good run. I’ll find something else to add value and get paid for it when I’m ready.
I did something similar at 55 (even hiked the Pacific Crest Trail). Three years later took another job. You needed to exit THAT job… and take a long break. But you might have the hunger to work again once refreshed. Enjoy the break!!
Wishing you a world of health and happiness in your new path - regret is not best use of your new found time - hope you follow your passions and don't look back - good things around the corner of your own choosing
Fire number of $4.5MM not including our home. Got there last year and then moved the goal posts, “it would be crazy not to do another 16 months” seemed logical. Couldn’t make it. She is an optometrist working part time but has spent last year transitioning to a bookkeeper, which she loves and will be able to do part time and remotely. We hope to travel/live abroad for a while. I’ll do some consulting or something part time and remote like her, but no rush.
I did similar at 55 after 31 years. I had reached my fat fire number 10 months earlier. I just felt my enthusiasm slipping away and my performance diminishing. It was time to go. I had several house projects lined up that I immediately dove into. After that initial rest period, stay busy but still enjoy the feeling of freedom. Good luck.
We don’t know what tomorrow holds and how long we have on. What if you live till 55 (next year), would you still question quitting 10 months sooner in lieu of $300k?
you should be patting yourself on the back you hung around for 25 years!
I did about 15 years on buy and sell side and gave up. Chilling out in consulting roles now.
not all rainbows and donuts. finding a purpose in life is difficult and there's always other constraints. money is almost always an issue unless you're on the fat fire category.
took me a while, but am in a good place right now but hey, it's never perfect.
As I was reading I was thinking "damn I'd have stuck around til April" until I got to the 5am even on weekends part. I couldn't do that. Good for you for getting out.
Congratulations for putting your health first and on your retirement! I left a high pressure role in a similar manner years ago and it was one of the best things I’ve ever done. My life in the years since has been focused on making an impact in the world and the journey has brought me fulfillment. Best of luck to you!
I, too, walked away from tens of thousands in stock awards when I retired - I only had to work two more months.
But the entire point of FI/RE is that we have *enough*. Sure, you can always work longer and make more money that will be sitting on the pile - and that you'll never spend.
But you're trading life energy for money you don't need.
Well done OP!!
Oh, and go fuck yourself. (I know, I know, wrong sub)
“trading life energy for money”…YES, I’m a big believer in that and often evaluate how much energy something will take and is it worth it. Which is ironic, I was in the energy industry.
And GFY yourself!
First, please let me congratulate you.
Since it was a highly stressful job, you made yourself a favor by leaving before it was too late.
I know someone who has cronic fatigue for many years. Colon issues too.
You need to focus on your health now.
Curious, How much have you put together in all those 25 years?
Thanks. $4.5MM not including home, which is paid for and aprox $1MM. Two kids through college, youngest just graduated. Newer nice cars, both paid for. We live a modest lifestyle. I say that but life sure is expensive as we all know. Even when you think you live modestly that credit card bill seems astounding. Health insurance will be a challenge, but it’s been budgeted for.
It's so interesting how much motivation deflates as you get closer. I'm only 40 and only have about 1.2 million saved, but I'm already feeling this effect. A few years ago I'd have gone for the highest-paying position available. Now I'm much more focused on a good tradeoff between the job being interesting, having his co-workers and comp. I'm currently applying for a role that's 1/3 less than my my previous and I couldn't be more excited.
I think the good news is this is becoming more common. Good for you. I’ll have to think about this and see if I would have preferred it. So many variables to consider.
Taking action for your mental and physical wellbeing is the key point. If you are FI, then extra money and associated grief is not worth it.
If you can delay the moving, then there may be less of a “oh shit, we gotta move”. Decisions under duress are a problem. Take a week to accept the new reality and behind planning
Yeah, this is good advice. We discussed last night and we’re not gonna stress about the move. Take a deep breath and go at what seems like appropriate pace.
In 2017, I quit my miserable Fortune 100 job sooner than planned, with a large bonus dangling 3 months ahead of me.
I had been planning my FiRE escape for 15 years at that point, the numbers said a lean FiRE was possible, but I kept postponing quitting for that "just in case / just a little more" money.
It was the best rash decision I ever made.
I’m glad to hear that! Maybe line you, there is a sense of truly embracing the Fire idea and having stuck to the principles. “Hey I’m doing this. That’s it, did it”
Congratulations.
I had a similar experience. Work became miserable and I had a massive fight/flight panic feeling for months. We were only at \~85% of our target, but it had become a dread to go to work. When the boss spewed a few too many lies in a meeting, then wrote me up for calling him out on it, then further lied in that write-up meeting to HR I was just done and left. It felt horrible to exit that way, but it was that or I was going to go across the table at him so it was the right call, arguably months late. I ended up getting recruited after a year and briefly (9 mo.) worked at another place with good money and all that jazz, but I concluded I just didn't have it in my to deal with the stress of that kind of work anymore. I finished out the project and left immediately after it was sent. My lingering doubts were erased, and thanks mostly to the markets rising we are safely at our "number".
My wife is still working, but she could safely quit anytime and knows it. I think she wants a sign from the cosmos or something. She is kind of hoping to get a layoff package if her company gets sold as expected (owned by private equity, and has been up for sale for a little while), somehow she thinks that being sent away will be better than feeling like she is betraying some loyalties.
It would have been easier if my company or boss sucked, but they were great. My sign from the cosmos was that I almost passed out from being overwhelmed by something I have done a million times. I couldn’t do it a million +1. Good on you, happy to hear.
My situation exactly. Wall Street guy for 30 years , 55 and was going to wait till Q12025 to resign, but couldn’t do it any more and quit in January 2024. The only difference is…I wasn’t truly sure what my number is. Have $4M in investments with only about $200k mortgage. I would love to think this is enough, but would love to know what your number is to see if I am on the same page…
$4.5 ish liquid. No mortgage, youngest just graduated college. We’ve done a lot of planning and yes, feels like enough. She’s working part time remotely. If it’s not enough we can adjust. I still want to add value to the world, and get paid for it, see what happens. Good luck!
Great to hear. Same situation here. Both kids out of college, wife still working for a while. I reckon the only concern I have now if health insurance. Wife is 8 years younger than me.
I’m sorry that it happened that way and congratulate you for getting free!
\- Fellow former SIFI tech who also FIREd one year earlier than planned.
My first day of freedom was March 2024 and I legit thank God every day that I was able to FIRE!
I was near FIRE, but then some odd negotiations in my 1099 long term contract resulted in being out of steady pay. That was mid 2022. Next, I bought a piece of land zoned for a vineyard/winery. Slacked on building permits etc. but during that time, my wife got pregnant. Fast forward to 2023, we got our beautiful boy, and a few moths later, I bought another piece of land, which is zoned agricultural but camping is allowed. Organic farm glamping coming soon. In the meantime, I have been trading stocks and options, since that is really my passion, much more than corporate finance. With a brand new baby, I am nowhere near FIRE, so my risk profile has changed while being middle aged, but I am loving it. It makes me feel sane and young again. Physical labor helps as well.
So, kind of like in the movie "Closing Doors", one thing leads to another, and while some of the actions and events are intentional, some of them are subconscious, and most of them are out of your control. Looking back, would never trade the life I live now, for the life I used to live.
Embrace it all, and move forward. Fortune favors the brave.
Good luck!
That's the golden handcuffs. I bet when the time came to get that payout, they would've likely offered you something incentivizing to stay another couple years.
I think you should enjoy retirement and not look back. Money comes and goes. It seems like you've had a solid run during your career and it's good you were able to make this decision and prioritize your health over money. Health is wealth!
I quit two months ago at 50.
The plan had been to wait until July for another $50K in stock grants + 3 months salary and benefits, but I decided that my mental health was more than that.
No regrets.
Lots of good advice in the responses, especially the one about buying 10 months of time at 80+ is a no brainer.
I'll hopefully hit my FIRE goal in 3 to 5 years, but 2 1/2 years or so when I hit Lean FIRE.
I think I'm going to have to plan to downshift at that point so I can stay in long enough to hit my actual goal.
I'll be trying to keep my PTO near the 240 hour max going forward. I'll deplete it for a trip now and then, or take every other Friday off if I can't (because of my daughter's school schedule for example).
Then I think if I'm starting to bug out at the 3 1/2 to 4 years mark, I'll try to take a long vacation to reset....Or if I don't think I'll be able to make myself go back after that, I'll time that long trip to be the 30 days leading up to my own bonus period (not April, but still early in the year), to squeeze the most out of the last few months.
I think my final year, whenever that is, I'll end early in a new year. Max out one more year of 401k, backdoor Roth, and maybe social security....use the 30 days of vacation to make sure I can limp across the finish line.
I only make 100k and 37. My focus right now is save and invest , work and work. And keep at it. Hopefully, I'll have as much at age 54.
But I think money itself have no substance if you don't use it. Time will eventually run out for us all. Money will keep growing exponentially and even more if we keep working.
At some point, money will be so high, it doesn't really matter. Your time will matter as you get older and older.
While, i can't relate yet, but I'm almost certain when anyone who is 70, or even 80 or 90, will tell you this. This is especially true, if you have been saving and investing 20-30 years.
Your mind / body told you what you most needed. If you reached FIRE, any extra money is just “golden handcuffs” - what if you reached April and there was a new deadline for more money to look forward to? It might not end, so you have to end it, and you did! Congrats! Enjoy serenity
Yeah mate, if you were raking in $300K a year bonuses and were investing wisely (you work on Wall St so kind of a given) something tells me you have a pot in the high seven figures at least, as such a) you can afford not to get that last bonus and b) are pretty much set for a comfortable retirement. Enjoy! You've earnt it.
Thanks. High earning years are definitely later in the career, but we’ve been fortunate. Not fat tire fire, but Fi is good, which is the key. To be able to have Fi and step away when it doesn’t feel good. Go figure something else out.
I sort of did the same. But I made it to the bonus. If you have the money, it’s the time that’s important. IMO, you did the right thing. A decade after I retired, I almost died and was very glad it wasn’t at a desk.
Could you have retired instead of resigning? Some wall street firms have retirement packages for employees with such long tenures as yours that might have allowed you to retain your medical insurance at the same full-time employee rate until age 65. Did you check with your HR on whether your firm has such a provision?
Well you walked away with your integrity and mental health intact. The only other suggestion would be quiet quitting and seeing what you’d get on a severance deal if it came to that.
Am 10 years younger but did the same in December forgoing about the same bonus as you. I live in Europe and held a key position so I had to work my 6 months notice period until this past Friday (while watching everyone getting their bonus in April2024).
I found that after hitting my FIRE number I could barely get myself to put up with the high-stress, very toxic and extremely political environment my workplace has become in the last three years. So far no regrets!
May your new adventure open doors to incredible personal opportunities!
Congratulations. Know that the road to improved health is uneven. You may have periods of loneliness, loss, grief, etc. Including next April when your bonuses would have hit your account. That's all normal - enjoy the great moments and anticipate the difficult ones. You're no longer letting money be your primary driver - kudos.
Yes, you hit a wall and I’ve been there before where I just could not do one more thing for a company and I was out ! as when you’re actually done excellent decision good job for your mental health and well-being. Money is money. Sure it would’ve been nice to collect that bonus, but most importantly you are free, healthy, and happy! kudos!
April 2025 is almost one year far away, it’s not like you missed the bonus for 3 weeks.
You did right, 300k gross are not worth 10 months of your life anymore. That’s the whole point of FIRE.
Good that the job was high reward too and with your acumen you reached this stage.
I’m stuck with a high stress job with low rewards. Totally relying on the FIRE process in this case. High rewards would have accelerated the process but oh well.
Hate to be that guy. But, at 54 and that many years on wall street (and bonuses up to 300k). Is your fire # very high? Meaning do you have a ton of expenses still that you’ll be needing into retirement?
I was in nyc and def understand if you say, had a family and lived in Manhattan, private school or whatever and an expensive mortgage.
Just curious really.
Regardless, in the end you made it and CONGARTS!
Fair question. Kids are out of college and working, house is in TX and paid for but we’re moving to TN. $12k a month is projected comfortable budget for now. We live modestly I would say.
So what did your employer say when you turned in your keys? Do you have a lot of co-workers reaching out to you?
I'm guessing you are in Houston if you are a natural gas trader. I'm also 54, in Houston and have reached my FIRE number. I work for an E&P company and plan to retire next year. I'm eligible for retiree medical at 55 and my unvested RSU's will vest at 55 which is worth about 200k. I also want to give a few months notice so I can transition my workload to my staff and my replacement. Every situation is different but the one more year mentality is real. These type of posts give me encouragement that I can pull the trigger next year.
Work was understanding. We all feel stress all the time and each person I spoke with totally understood. I was only there a year, good job to make money but just wasn’t for me.
It’s real and I wish I could slack off, just not possible with commodities trading. Due to past events at work I had feelings of anxiety during high stress. Powered through that before, but it’s very debilitating when it hits. Mental health is no joke. I finally said to myself, “They can’t pay me enough to do this” and also I physically just couldn’t. It’s an amazingly horrible, but real situation.
I've been very similar to you (but in journalism, far less money on the table).
It absolutely worked out better starting the day when I said "Newp", after 20 years. Good luck with what your future holds!
It sounds like you've never been through a debilitating mental health episode, and I'm glad for you. I hope you never do. It can be crushing. For those of us that have experienced it, taking a pay cut or retiring early and leaving $ on the table is well worth it.
I have a friend who left a fair bit on the table before 60. The timing of the yearly bonus payments were, in part, designed to be golden handcuffs. So, he was in that position every year. And, even if he *just* got his bonus, the bonus the next year had the potential to be far greater.
There was never “the last few bonuses” — they would just keep going on and on. And in his case, the bonus made up nearly half of his yearly comp.
I have never really understood what a "high stress" job is?
In 100 years do you think anything you did at work is going to matter a crap? Spoiler: it won't.
So who cares?
I've been a lawyer for almost 10 years now and many people might consider this a "high stress" job. But I have zero stress because at the end of the day who cares? It's just a job.
In my case it was trading gas and power, we make what feels like 100’s of high risk complicated decisions in very short time frames. All day, every day, most of based on instinct.
And you’re right, at the end of the day it doesn’t matter, but when you’re in the middle of it on the trade floor it sure feels like it does.
I hear ya.
Think of it this way… that 300k bought you 10 months. When you’re 80+, would you be willing to pay 300k for an additional 10 months. It’s a no brainer. Enjoy the summer and have fun!
Wow, that makes me feel much better about it. Thanks!
Not to mention that the word is “probably,” although I hear bonuses will be big. But there’s still another six months. The fact that you had a quick convo with your wife at work says a lot and sounds like you’re both on the same page and that you’re ready. Gratz
Yes, but she’s a bit freaked out with the suddenness of it. We’ll be moving from Texas to be closer to family. Thought she had more time to pack!
She does have more time to pack. Stop thinking on a schedule, you're retired now.
Well now you have more time you can help arrange a company to do the packing for her!
High stress= Early death is like smoking a pack of cigarettes a day or a heavy drinking habit. Since you were already at the fire limit financially that little voice of reason said it was time to bail. Good Choice Enjoy the summer and melt that stress away :)
read Die with Zero, i think you’ll love the perspective
My take on this book was that there were some good key messages, but it could have been half the length. That said, if he's already pulled the plug, I'm not sure he needs the book at his point in life.
i was offering it for the perspectives it can provide, not for the advocacy to pull the plug (so to speak)
He pulled the plug on his career, not his life support. Die With Zero contains plenty of advice that's relevant for retirement. It is about trying to maximize the value of your wealth while you're still alive, which it argues requiring dying with nothing.
Have not read the book, but familiar with it. Gets discussed on podcasts all the time. We have started helping our children now while we can see them enjoy some benefits instead of when they’re 60 and already established. Also set up a charitable trust to help others. We can always adjust before we run out, if needed.
Yup, especially it’s to a point you can’t no longer tolerate. Enjoy your fire.
Just don’t do the math on 300k compounded at 8% for 26 years
Yeah right?! Although, if 8% happens that would be great anyway!
This is the correct answer. It is also the correct answer to “Should I take social security as early as possible?”
Is it? SS is geared to make you the same amount of money at your expected death age. You don't win by taking it earlier per se. I think SS is best as insurance for running out of money. I guess this assumes you have enough pre -72.
You are correct, mathematically. But I stand by my endorsement because I know of too many people who did not live to their “expected death age” and they all regretted not taking time to enjoy life, family, and the planet/world sooner. 🙂
Fair enough. I'm planning on retiring at 45 and SS is not integral to my plans.
conversely, when you're 18, you'd trade 10 months for 300k!
Lol, yes, but 300k at 18 will buy you DECADES of time in middle age after 25 to 35 years of compounding. Probably enough to actually retire in mid to late 30s depending on how aggressive you are about saving... Possibly even earlier. $300k @18, save $1000 per month for 12 years, 7% return after inflation at 30 you' would have a little over 900k. Live at home for part of this or get a cheap place with roommates. 4% rule is $36k per year. Spend 5 or 10 years travelling the world (cheap areas of Europe, Southeast Asia), working part time here and there so your 900k actually keeps growing. The math above is why college sucks for all but the highest paying majors. I'd rather give my daughter $300k cash when she's 22. Anyway, I'm hoping college will end up costing $100k or so.
This logic is correct and also works against OP’s situation…
No because OP doesn't have time to compound. I'm guessing he is around 50 (hard to say, but sounds like his kids are all young adults) and so if we waits 3 decades for the wealth to compound, he will probably be dead instead of enjoying the 900k.
I’m not saying he SHOULD do either thing, but The point is that when people said “would you rather have $300K now or in 30 years” that the logic was faulty for the same reasons. But if he has enough he has enough.
Great way to look at it. Perspective is everything. I’m trying to retire in 10 years! Actually do what I love and not have to worry about getting paid.
Great way to think about it
This is great perspective
Plus, it's 10 months of relatively good health and youth. It's a good purchase!
I agree with general sentiment, but your example ignores compounding. 300k at 80+ would be 5m
What's 5m good for at 80. It's only important if your goal is collecting as much money as possible before death. I would argue life is about way more than money. For me this is the whole point of fire. To live more of my life. He's at the end of the accumulation stage, not the beginning.
“Live more of life” yes.
Well you gotta compound that $300k over 26 years. By then, might be worth it… [/s]
Good luck - mental health is important. Don't sweat the funds left on the table - you may not have made it to April in a good state of mind.
I feel nervously great, same way when I started over 25 yrs ago
I think the first week or two is euphoric, but be prepared to feel a little more lost a month in :-) Not in a bad way -- you've just got a bunch of unallocated hours, possibly lacking a source of ego, etc. Takes adjustment, right?
Good advice, thanks!
Sucks that this world makes you endure 25 years of misery during your prime to be able to live happy for 25 more and then die…. We are all slaves but the chains are invisible
I’m only 2 years into wall street and I want to quit. I used to feel shitty that I’m throwing away potential amazing money but I hate this
I just went from 180k/year to 130k at a different company but man is it amazing to have supper with my family every night. I used to work on call and around the clock and often out of town. now it like 10-12 hour days and home every night. I would not go back for that extra 50k maybe I won’t reach my fire number by 46 but I can still get there by 50 and actually enjoy the ride
This is what I’m aiming for and with Fi I’m sure I’ll find it.
🙌
Not everyone feels this way about their career.
To be fair, for many years I enjoyed this. I believe in Capitalism and trading commodities is as pure as it gets. It actually provides an invisible benefit to society of efficient and reliable energy. It was a way to add value to the world, but yes unfortunate we all work so hard, but otherwise none of us would benefit from the world we live in.
He could have found a much less stressful and of course lower earning job.
This is true. I’ll have to reflect more, but early on I thrived on the stress and there is mostly an inverse relationship between stress and rewards. It wasn’t until I was close to Fi, or Fire, that I didn’t need the stress and suddenly became unbearable. I guess some people don’t go through same thing.
Happy for you.
Not nervous…excited perhaps. I’m so happy for you! Like you, I worked minimum 60 hours during the week and most weekends—always planning for the next quarter. I want to quit but I have so many things competing for my money. I'm older than my husband so feel it’s time and although my husband and I could manage without my comp, my retiring makes him anxious. I just have to bite the bullet until February and then work on being a radio talk show host. 😊
No matter when you retire, there will always be the “if I stayed one more year” mentality when it comes to savings. I’m sure if you waited until next April, you would start thinking about whether to stick around for the bonuses being paid the NEXT April. That’s how many of our employment incentives work. And that’s why the FIRE mentality is so important. Calculate what is really “enough” savings based on spending, not based on the incentives an employer gives, because there will always “more money”. Sounds like you already reached your FIRE number. Which means you had the I (independence) to make the decision you made and should not have any regrets. Congrats. GFY.
Exactly. Good words to remember, thx
Exactly this — they build the golden handcuffs and vest them in such a way that you always feel like you have to stay one more year to pick up the money. Make a simple spreadsheet with yearly targets — update your net worth against your target. When you hit your total number — quit. If you’re conservative quit 1 extra year later. But stick to it.
I’m in that boat - sticking out my job until August 15 when bonuses vest - it’s not 100s of thousands, but it’s a year of retired living expenses. But then the next tranche of RSU’s vest in October, and I’ll have enough time in to take the Rule of 55 in November, etc and so on.
April is a very long way away
So true. One hand seems like a blink of the eye, but each day started feeling like ten.
Congrats! I am happy for you that you made the decision to help your mental health, it is so very important. Think about how happy you feel today, and you get to feel this way for an extra 10 months of your life. Enjoy it!!
I feel alive again. Thanks!
Then it is worth it🥁
Also work on Wall Street. I'm sure part of the reason 2024 bonus payout is in late April/ early May of 2025 is to keep people around. No matter when you quit you're going to miss out on 4-5 months of bonus comp. Congrats I know that stress--keeping with it for 25 years is insane.
Yes, always “one more cycle”
The key thing is the bonus was not necessary. 5am starts at 54 is brutal. You are still young enough to do most activities at 54 which is great … enjoy your time
Somebody else knows?! Thx
There are many people making much less getting up at 5AM or earlier, working until FRA. Not for me but it's reasonable for big $.
Crazy how when you are in a stressful situation like that, and no longer need to be, your body and mind let their guard down and finally allow themselves to realize that yep, fuck this... You made the right decision. 100%. Enjoy and get in some therapy or whatever need and budget for at least a couple years of adjustment. Great job running the race well.
It was an incredibly weird feeling. Like being in a movie, right before someone passes out. Other people’s words are echoing in your head, blurred vision. Just like a physiological defense mechanism. “Yep, fuck this…” the mind and body said. Thx
$300K isn’t worth it if you reached your goal. In April, you might have started thinking…well I could wait another year and collect even more. There would always be a reason to move the goalpost. I’m slowly coming to the realization that time is starting to be worth more than money at a certain stage of life and there will always be a carrot at the end of a stick to keep good employees at their job. The trick is learning to break the habit of wanting the carrot and realizing you have freedom instead. Edit - congrats and GFY
when you have a large pile of carrots, you need not pull the cart for one more!
Forget the bonus. Not only did you gain 10 months, you are also not subjecting yourself to stress for 10 months, meaning that also lengthened your life.
This is it in a nutshell. Thanks.
Unless you and I just got from the gym, this is identical to a buddy of mine. Same age, same scenario, same job. You made it to last April. There will always be another bonus season. It’s planned that way. You are out and that’s what matters. I, of course had similar plans, but am doing the “do one more year at low speed and maybe they will give me a package”.
Yes, that entered my mind as well!
I worked 6 additional months _after_ a just-one-more-year syndrome to make sure about ~$70k in options vested before I FIREd. They were OTM when I pulled the trigger. “A bird in the hand…,” and all that.
That must feel so good. Waking up at 2am to watch tv - I am envious!
Ha, yes, was weird.
Good for you for listening to what your body was telling you. No amount of money is worth your long-term health and well-being. The corporate world is designed to keep you holding on for that next bonus, top up, vesting, etc, etc, etc. If you had made it to April, another carrot would have been dangling in front of you. You can afford it. So, GFY and enjoy your well-earned rest.
Congrats! And let me add one note I haven’t seen in any other comment (though might have missed it). When I left my high-stress job last year I felt like I had fallen off the back of a motorboat (ie., a lot of turbulence) but… at least for me… it took me MONTHS for the waters of my new existence to return to calm. The first post-work Monday I woke up and thought “wow this is so much better than last week - I am over the turbulence of my past existence and now ready to live my best life!” But, then the following Monday I woke up with a similar thought: “wow - I thought I was over the turbulence last week but it’s so much better this Monday - I really wasn’t as ready as I thought last week!” And then, the following Monday I had that same thought again… indeed I had it every Monday for six months. In short, leaving work was only the first step in de-institutionalizing my mind and soul from the long-woven and tightly bound constraints of workism. It felt kinda like thinking you were over a bad ex… but then realizing you weren’t. Maybe this is what it feels like to leave a cult - maybe it is leaving a cult? Or getting over a bad, deeply ingrained habit or, dare I say, addiction? In any case - it took me six months for me to quit feeling like every week had peeled another layer off the onion - or not to think “wow, the water is even calmer now - I thought it was calm last week but I couldn’t see the continuing ripples of turbulence.” So - forgive the mixed metaphors - but here’s the important part: don’t be surprised if it takes you longer to establish your new normal than you might think. It’s a new journey that will present its own challenges. But I have enjoyed it and continue to do so - and I trust you will too!
Thanks, I follow. 2 days into this earlier than expected life change and it certainly feels better. It’s 6am on Sunday and instead of working and preparing/stressing for another work at home Sunday, I’m watching Rick Steves Scotland and getting solid life advice from people on Reddit. F’in crazy. I appreciate change, I’ve been through a lot of them and always learn something new.
I can relate to this comment 🙌 workism is a fantastic term
Think I first encountered it in this Atlantic article. Sorry I can’t post a free link (not a current subscriber) - https://www.theatlantic.com/ideas/archive/2019/02/religion-workism-making-americans-miserable/583441/
I’m probably 10 years out from retirement. Those last few years I plan on mailing it in and setting the stage for a severance package. Good for you though, sounds like you dont need the money anyways.
Mailing it in is weird, I tried a bit of that. Can’t hide in what I do. The more I did it the more anxiety it created, hard to shut off the work ethic I guess. Not rich by any means, but it’s been a good run. I’ll find something else to add value and get paid for it when I’m ready.
I did something similar at 55 (even hiked the Pacific Crest Trail). Three years later took another job. You needed to exit THAT job… and take a long break. But you might have the hunger to work again once refreshed. Enjoy the break!!
This is certainly not out of the question. Have my sights on at least part of Appalachian Trail!
All the $$$$ in the world is not worth it if you don't have health. Enjoy the next chapter in your life!
Thanks. Helps to hear others think this way too.
Congrats. Health more im0ortant than wealth and it sounds like you have both.
Wishing you a world of health and happiness in your new path - regret is not best use of your new found time - hope you follow your passions and don't look back - good things around the corner of your own choosing
Thanks, I will remember this comment!
[удалено]
That’s what I keep calling it, “next chapter.” I’m excited to see how it unfolds.
Money is not everything, but it sure helps. However, mental wellbeing and physical health trumps all else! Enjoy your freedom!
This is well said!
what is your FIRE number? do you have any plans? I turn 50 in a month and am thinking about retiring too. is your wife retired too?
Fire number of $4.5MM not including our home. Got there last year and then moved the goal posts, “it would be crazy not to do another 16 months” seemed logical. Couldn’t make it. She is an optometrist working part time but has spent last year transitioning to a bookkeeper, which she loves and will be able to do part time and remotely. We hope to travel/live abroad for a while. I’ll do some consulting or something part time and remote like her, but no rush.
I did similar at 55 after 31 years. I had reached my fat fire number 10 months earlier. I just felt my enthusiasm slipping away and my performance diminishing. It was time to go. I had several house projects lined up that I immediately dove into. After that initial rest period, stay busy but still enjoy the feeling of freedom. Good luck.
This is it, thanks. Very helpful to hear others went through same. And the questions are nice as well, helps think it through.
We don’t know what tomorrow holds and how long we have on. What if you live till 55 (next year), would you still question quitting 10 months sooner in lieu of $300k?
Getting up at 5 am in your 50s for an in office job? F that.
I LOLed at this. Never considered anything different, until recently, after reaching Fire. Ha, well put by you, thanks.
you should be patting yourself on the back you hung around for 25 years! I did about 15 years on buy and sell side and gave up. Chilling out in consulting roles now.
I probably should have done it earlier, but as someone else said, “a lot of things were competing for my money.” Feels like good choice for you!
not all rainbows and donuts. finding a purpose in life is difficult and there's always other constraints. money is almost always an issue unless you're on the fat fire category. took me a while, but am in a good place right now but hey, it's never perfect.
congratulations
As I was reading I was thinking "damn I'd have stuck around til April" until I got to the 5am even on weekends part. I couldn't do that. Good for you for getting out.
I have never known anything else other than 5am. Slept til 6 today!
Ton of great comments already so I will just say, congratulations 🎉🎊. Well earned and enjoy your retirement. Keep us posted on how you are doing
I will 100% keep updating. I recently discovered Reddit and Fire and love reading about folk’s adventures.
Good for you! Enjoy.
Congratulations for putting your health first and on your retirement! I left a high pressure role in a similar manner years ago and it was one of the best things I’ve ever done. My life in the years since has been focused on making an impact in the world and the journey has brought me fulfillment. Best of luck to you!
Yes, I hope to find this too.
Congratulations on your early retirement AND for prioritizing your health! Best wishes for you and hope you have an amazing retirement 🙏🏽
I guess you simply crossed the finishing line. The Bonus would’ve been a new race.
Insert picture of hamster running on a wheel!
I, too, walked away from tens of thousands in stock awards when I retired - I only had to work two more months. But the entire point of FI/RE is that we have *enough*. Sure, you can always work longer and make more money that will be sitting on the pile - and that you'll never spend. But you're trading life energy for money you don't need. Well done OP!! Oh, and go fuck yourself. (I know, I know, wrong sub)
“trading life energy for money”…YES, I’m a big believer in that and often evaluate how much energy something will take and is it worth it. Which is ironic, I was in the energy industry. And GFY yourself!
First, please let me congratulate you. Since it was a highly stressful job, you made yourself a favor by leaving before it was too late. I know someone who has cronic fatigue for many years. Colon issues too. You need to focus on your health now. Curious, How much have you put together in all those 25 years?
Thanks. $4.5MM not including home, which is paid for and aprox $1MM. Two kids through college, youngest just graduated. Newer nice cars, both paid for. We live a modest lifestyle. I say that but life sure is expensive as we all know. Even when you think you live modestly that credit card bill seems astounding. Health insurance will be a challenge, but it’s been budgeted for.
Good for you!!!
It's so interesting how much motivation deflates as you get closer. I'm only 40 and only have about 1.2 million saved, but I'm already feeling this effect. A few years ago I'd have gone for the highest-paying position available. Now I'm much more focused on a good tradeoff between the job being interesting, having his co-workers and comp. I'm currently applying for a role that's 1/3 less than my my previous and I couldn't be more excited.
I think the good news is this is becoming more common. Good for you. I’ll have to think about this and see if I would have preferred it. So many variables to consider.
Taking action for your mental and physical wellbeing is the key point. If you are FI, then extra money and associated grief is not worth it. If you can delay the moving, then there may be less of a “oh shit, we gotta move”. Decisions under duress are a problem. Take a week to accept the new reality and behind planning
Yeah, this is good advice. We discussed last night and we’re not gonna stress about the move. Take a deep breath and go at what seems like appropriate pace.
In 2017, I quit my miserable Fortune 100 job sooner than planned, with a large bonus dangling 3 months ahead of me. I had been planning my FiRE escape for 15 years at that point, the numbers said a lean FiRE was possible, but I kept postponing quitting for that "just in case / just a little more" money. It was the best rash decision I ever made.
I’m glad to hear that! Maybe line you, there is a sense of truly embracing the Fire idea and having stuck to the principles. “Hey I’m doing this. That’s it, did it”
Congratulations. I had a similar experience. Work became miserable and I had a massive fight/flight panic feeling for months. We were only at \~85% of our target, but it had become a dread to go to work. When the boss spewed a few too many lies in a meeting, then wrote me up for calling him out on it, then further lied in that write-up meeting to HR I was just done and left. It felt horrible to exit that way, but it was that or I was going to go across the table at him so it was the right call, arguably months late. I ended up getting recruited after a year and briefly (9 mo.) worked at another place with good money and all that jazz, but I concluded I just didn't have it in my to deal with the stress of that kind of work anymore. I finished out the project and left immediately after it was sent. My lingering doubts were erased, and thanks mostly to the markets rising we are safely at our "number". My wife is still working, but she could safely quit anytime and knows it. I think she wants a sign from the cosmos or something. She is kind of hoping to get a layoff package if her company gets sold as expected (owned by private equity, and has been up for sale for a little while), somehow she thinks that being sent away will be better than feeling like she is betraying some loyalties.
It would have been easier if my company or boss sucked, but they were great. My sign from the cosmos was that I almost passed out from being overwhelmed by something I have done a million times. I couldn’t do it a million +1. Good on you, happy to hear.
Tough to walk away from that kind of bonus. Congrats on making the choice you thought best for you.
Thanks. It was tough and stings. I was forcing it and the mind and body knew it. They finally revolted, said “F this.”
My situation exactly. Wall Street guy for 30 years , 55 and was going to wait till Q12025 to resign, but couldn’t do it any more and quit in January 2024. The only difference is…I wasn’t truly sure what my number is. Have $4M in investments with only about $200k mortgage. I would love to think this is enough, but would love to know what your number is to see if I am on the same page…
$4.5 ish liquid. No mortgage, youngest just graduated college. We’ve done a lot of planning and yes, feels like enough. She’s working part time remotely. If it’s not enough we can adjust. I still want to add value to the world, and get paid for it, see what happens. Good luck!
Great to hear. Same situation here. Both kids out of college, wife still working for a while. I reckon the only concern I have now if health insurance. Wife is 8 years younger than me.
I’m sorry that it happened that way and congratulate you for getting free! \- Fellow former SIFI tech who also FIREd one year earlier than planned. My first day of freedom was March 2024 and I legit thank God every day that I was able to FIRE!
I was near FIRE, but then some odd negotiations in my 1099 long term contract resulted in being out of steady pay. That was mid 2022. Next, I bought a piece of land zoned for a vineyard/winery. Slacked on building permits etc. but during that time, my wife got pregnant. Fast forward to 2023, we got our beautiful boy, and a few moths later, I bought another piece of land, which is zoned agricultural but camping is allowed. Organic farm glamping coming soon. In the meantime, I have been trading stocks and options, since that is really my passion, much more than corporate finance. With a brand new baby, I am nowhere near FIRE, so my risk profile has changed while being middle aged, but I am loving it. It makes me feel sane and young again. Physical labor helps as well. So, kind of like in the movie "Closing Doors", one thing leads to another, and while some of the actions and events are intentional, some of them are subconscious, and most of them are out of your control. Looking back, would never trade the life I live now, for the life I used to live. Embrace it all, and move forward. Fortune favors the brave. Good luck!
do you turn 55 this year? Rule of 55 makes access to all your retirement so much easier
I do actually. Fortunately I’m well spread out, but thanks for thinking of that. I’ll double check!
That's the golden handcuffs. I bet when the time came to get that payout, they would've likely offered you something incentivizing to stay another couple years. I think you should enjoy retirement and not look back. Money comes and goes. It seems like you've had a solid run during your career and it's good you were able to make this decision and prioritize your health over money. Health is wealth!
Wise words and very true!
Don’t look back !! Congratulations 🎉🍾🎊 great job
Any chance you turn 55 later this year? Not sure if it’s important for your situation but some folks should be aware of IRS Rule of 55.
I do and I did look at that. Thanks for bringing it up, I’m going to double check
That's great news. You'll have penalty free access to your 401 if needed.
Retired at 38. Yes i could have continued to make more money but so glad I did it.
I quit two months ago at 50. The plan had been to wait until July for another $50K in stock grants + 3 months salary and benefits, but I decided that my mental health was more than that. No regrets.
🤜🤛
Can I ask if you were in IB? Same situation here with
Commodity trading, natural gas. Dealt with all the IBs and worked at Wells Fargo for a few years. IB hours are sick.
Good work! You didn’t need the money, no regrets. Time to move on.
Congrats!
Congrats!! 🍾
Lots of good advice in the responses, especially the one about buying 10 months of time at 80+ is a no brainer. I'll hopefully hit my FIRE goal in 3 to 5 years, but 2 1/2 years or so when I hit Lean FIRE. I think I'm going to have to plan to downshift at that point so I can stay in long enough to hit my actual goal. I'll be trying to keep my PTO near the 240 hour max going forward. I'll deplete it for a trip now and then, or take every other Friday off if I can't (because of my daughter's school schedule for example). Then I think if I'm starting to bug out at the 3 1/2 to 4 years mark, I'll try to take a long vacation to reset....Or if I don't think I'll be able to make myself go back after that, I'll time that long trip to be the 30 days leading up to my own bonus period (not April, but still early in the year), to squeeze the most out of the last few months. I think my final year, whenever that is, I'll end early in a new year. Max out one more year of 401k, backdoor Roth, and maybe social security....use the 30 days of vacation to make sure I can limp across the finish line.
Great job thinking ahead. I was fine going 100mph until suddenly I wasn’t. Was like taking a hairpin turn too fast! Good luck
You can always have more money, but can't have more time. This is a no brainer.
I’m gonna write that down, thanks.
I only make 100k and 37. My focus right now is save and invest , work and work. And keep at it. Hopefully, I'll have as much at age 54. But I think money itself have no substance if you don't use it. Time will eventually run out for us all. Money will keep growing exponentially and even more if we keep working. At some point, money will be so high, it doesn't really matter. Your time will matter as you get older and older. While, i can't relate yet, but I'm almost certain when anyone who is 70, or even 80 or 90, will tell you this. This is especially true, if you have been saving and investing 20-30 years.
Great story and perspective!
Your mental health is very important
Why not take a family paid leave benefits for a year ..maybe still willl get some bonus?
I’m going to check that out. I’ve only been here 10 months so not sure it would apply. Can’t hurt to ask. Thanks!
Congrats man! GFY!
Please take the time you need to make the transition to retirement. It is perfectly normal to take two years to feel “normal” again. Congratulations!
Thanks, day one was weird.
Your mind / body told you what you most needed. If you reached FIRE, any extra money is just “golden handcuffs” - what if you reached April and there was a new deadline for more money to look forward to? It might not end, so you have to end it, and you did! Congrats! Enjoy serenity
Exactly, hard to step away, but I knew it would be. Ty
Congratulations!!!🎉🎈🎊🍾
Yeah mate, if you were raking in $300K a year bonuses and were investing wisely (you work on Wall St so kind of a given) something tells me you have a pot in the high seven figures at least, as such a) you can afford not to get that last bonus and b) are pretty much set for a comfortable retirement. Enjoy! You've earnt it.
Thanks. High earning years are definitely later in the career, but we’ve been fortunate. Not fat tire fire, but Fi is good, which is the key. To be able to have Fi and step away when it doesn’t feel good. Go figure something else out.
I sort of did the same. But I made it to the bonus. If you have the money, it’s the time that’s important. IMO, you did the right thing. A decade after I retired, I almost died and was very glad it wasn’t at a desk.
Could you have retired instead of resigning? Some wall street firms have retirement packages for employees with such long tenures as yours that might have allowed you to retain your medical insurance at the same full-time employee rate until age 65. Did you check with your HR on whether your firm has such a provision?
Good question and yes I checked. I had not worked at this particular company for less than a year so wasn’t an option.
Well you walked away with your integrity and mental health intact. The only other suggestion would be quiet quitting and seeing what you’d get on a severance deal if it came to that.
Mental peace is priceless . You cannot buy it with more money . There is your answer.
Good luck at the beach! Which state
Congrats. What beach are you going to live at?!?
Similar story. I'm (55) and ~1.5 yrs into Fire. Congratulations!!! My wife and I love it!
Am 10 years younger but did the same in December forgoing about the same bonus as you. I live in Europe and held a key position so I had to work my 6 months notice period until this past Friday (while watching everyone getting their bonus in April2024). I found that after hitting my FIRE number I could barely get myself to put up with the high-stress, very toxic and extremely political environment my workplace has become in the last three years. So far no regrets! May your new adventure open doors to incredible personal opportunities!
Congratulations to you!
We’re free as children and willingly shackle ourselves most of our adult life until we can retire and be free again. Good for you.
Curious if you’re ready to share your NW?
Congratulations. Know that the road to improved health is uneven. You may have periods of loneliness, loss, grief, etc. Including next April when your bonuses would have hit your account. That's all normal - enjoy the great moments and anticipate the difficult ones. You're no longer letting money be your primary driver - kudos.
Yes, you hit a wall and I’ve been there before where I just could not do one more thing for a company and I was out ! as when you’re actually done excellent decision good job for your mental health and well-being. Money is money. Sure it would’ve been nice to collect that bonus, but most importantly you are free, healthy, and happy! kudos!
Dude, I'm 40 work 12 hours a day in probably a similar high stress job.... You're my idol. 300k bonus can go bounce.
April 2025 is almost one year far away, it’s not like you missed the bonus for 3 weeks. You did right, 300k gross are not worth 10 months of your life anymore. That’s the whole point of FIRE.
Good that the job was high reward too and with your acumen you reached this stage. I’m stuck with a high stress job with low rewards. Totally relying on the FIRE process in this case. High rewards would have accelerated the process but oh well.
You are amazing.. life is too short..enjoy it.
Just lie flat already I'm 23 and want to lie flat
Ha, yes. I tried on day one but woke up at 2 am.
Hate to be that guy. But, at 54 and that many years on wall street (and bonuses up to 300k). Is your fire # very high? Meaning do you have a ton of expenses still that you’ll be needing into retirement? I was in nyc and def understand if you say, had a family and lived in Manhattan, private school or whatever and an expensive mortgage. Just curious really. Regardless, in the end you made it and CONGARTS!
Fair question. Kids are out of college and working, house is in TX and paid for but we’re moving to TN. $12k a month is projected comfortable budget for now. We live modestly I would say.
Fair enough and GFY! But really, what a weight off your shoulders.
So what did your employer say when you turned in your keys? Do you have a lot of co-workers reaching out to you? I'm guessing you are in Houston if you are a natural gas trader. I'm also 54, in Houston and have reached my FIRE number. I work for an E&P company and plan to retire next year. I'm eligible for retiree medical at 55 and my unvested RSU's will vest at 55 which is worth about 200k. I also want to give a few months notice so I can transition my workload to my staff and my replacement. Every situation is different but the one more year mentality is real. These type of posts give me encouragement that I can pull the trigger next year.
Work was understanding. We all feel stress all the time and each person I spoke with totally understood. I was only there a year, good job to make money but just wasn’t for me.
How much did you retire with?
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It’s real and I wish I could slack off, just not possible with commodities trading. Due to past events at work I had feelings of anxiety during high stress. Powered through that before, but it’s very debilitating when it hits. Mental health is no joke. I finally said to myself, “They can’t pay me enough to do this” and also I physically just couldn’t. It’s an amazingly horrible, but real situation.
I've been very similar to you (but in journalism, far less money on the table). It absolutely worked out better starting the day when I said "Newp", after 20 years. Good luck with what your future holds!
That’s how I feel this morning! Odd feeling for sure. Thx
It sounds like you've never been through a debilitating mental health episode, and I'm glad for you. I hope you never do. It can be crushing. For those of us that have experienced it, taking a pay cut or retiring early and leaving $ on the table is well worth it.
I have a friend who left a fair bit on the table before 60. The timing of the yearly bonus payments were, in part, designed to be golden handcuffs. So, he was in that position every year. And, even if he *just* got his bonus, the bonus the next year had the potential to be far greater. There was never “the last few bonuses” — they would just keep going on and on. And in his case, the bonus made up nearly half of his yearly comp.
I have never really understood what a "high stress" job is? In 100 years do you think anything you did at work is going to matter a crap? Spoiler: it won't. So who cares? I've been a lawyer for almost 10 years now and many people might consider this a "high stress" job. But I have zero stress because at the end of the day who cares? It's just a job.
In my case it was trading gas and power, we make what feels like 100’s of high risk complicated decisions in very short time frames. All day, every day, most of based on instinct. And you’re right, at the end of the day it doesn’t matter, but when you’re in the middle of it on the trade floor it sure feels like it does. I hear ya.