Can a normal middle class guy really escape from this trap of 9 to 5 ?
Have you heard about the concept of eternal retirement? You work at a place that you like, in a role that you like, without bothering about advancements and salary (and further what you can do with it). And ideally, that's more than enough for anyone.
Thank you for the comment. TBH I sometimes really think about this. Genuinely. But then I think, Do I have to work all my life ? I mean When should one enjoy his life, maybe I am thinking too much.
And how long will your company keep you if you do that?
Someone who’s not motivated by salary or growth will do the bare minimum. If you are doing anything more than the bare minimum, you are taking work seriously, improving performance, chasing the targets, affected by office politics, getting stressed out. Then it’s not retirement.
- Explore being financially independent early so that you don't have to work for money.
- Use the time (of your journey to financial freedom) in identifying where your interests lie, where work doesn't feel work, something you would love doing for the sake of it (or the end goal) and not necessarily for monetary returns.
- If you're still unsuccessful with #2 but are still financially free, it's alright. Chances are if you've managed to get financially free in 20-25 years, you're smart; find enough mental stimulus to keep the grey matter ticking, live a healthy life and enjoy your free time doing what you love doing (or doing nothing, if that's your case) and go from there!
Yes, earn well, save, and invest, and you can retire early after 15-20 years of career
