Early retirement is a dream for workers but for many people it remains just that – a dream.
In the US, proponents of a movement garnering media interest called Financial Independence, Retire Early (Fire for short) think they’ve found the “secret”. The basic idea is for those in jobs they dislike to achieve financial independence and get out as soon as possible, and it is thought those in the Millennial generation increasingly feel this desire more strongly than their predecessors. But in an age of austerity and with rising pension ages, is this all too good to be true?
Some critics have interpreted those talking up Fire to be unduly preoccupied with the privileges of Silicon Valley tech entrepreneurs who have made their millions. But the Fire brigade insist their philosophy doesn’t just apply to the youthful techie super-rich: if you are frugal and cut out all pointless spending, they say, you will soon save enough to quit and achieve personal happiness and fulfilment.
We would like to explore the issues around retiring early in the real world. Do you think it’s possible to achieve early retirement or is it is only a reality for the relatively well off? To answer these questions and explore the issue further, and are looking to speak with readers who have related experience.
Share your experiences and views
If you have done so, what is the reality of quitting your job early? We are keen to speak with people who have retired before the age of 50 to discuss how they managed it, whether they feel they made the right choices and what they are doing with their life now. To get in touch, fill out the encrypted form below and one of our journalists may contact you to discuss further.
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