Have you ever envisioned bidding farewell to the daily grind, breaking free from the 9-to-5 routine, and retire early to enjoy life on your own terms? You might assume that this dream requires a lot of money, and the thought of accumulating it seems like an endless, uncertain journey.
That’s where FIRE comes into play – “Financial Independence Retire Early”. It is a movement that began in 1992 when authors Vicki Robin and Joe Dominguez in their book, “Your Money or Your Life,” mentioned a steps to financial independence. FIRE is a strategy that enables you to plan your finances in a way that grants you the possibility of retiring as early as your 40s. This financial security allows you to embrace the rest of your life according to your desires and preferences.
What is the FIRE Movement?
Very simply, the FIRE movement is a lifestyle and financial philosophy that emphasizes on achieving financial independence and early retirement. The ultimate goal is to have the financial freedom to retire well before the traditional retirement age of around 60. FIRE isn’t about quitting work altogether; it’s about having the choice to work on your own terms or not work at all.
Having enough savings and investments to support your desired lifestyle without being reliant on a traditional job for income. You can cover your living expenses, medical bills, and other financial commitments without being bound by a paycheck.
The FIRE equation: How does it work?
The FIRE equation involves three key components:
1. Save Aggressively: One of the hallmarks of the FIRE movement is the commitment to saving a substantial portion of your income. Many FIRE adherents aim for a savings rate of 50% or more. This could also mean living below your means.
For example: Let’s say your monthly income is Rs.60,000. A 50% savings rate would mean saving at least Rs.30,000 each month.
2. Invest Wisely: Once you save up that money, you must invest it wisely to help it grow. Investments in assets like stocks, bonds, gold, and real estate can appreciate over time. Compound interest is something that helps your money grow faster here.
For example: You invest Rs.10,000 in a diversified portfolio with an average annual return of 7%. After 10 years, your initial investment would grow to approximately Rs.19,671.5, which is almost the double of what you invested.
3. Live Frugally: Living frugally is a crucial component of the FIRE equation. It doesn’t necessarily mean sacrificing all comforts but distinguishing between what adds value to your life and what can be eliminated.
For example: You could save a good chunk of your salary by eating at home rather than ordering food from restaurants.
How to calculate your FIRE number :
The Rule of 25 is the simplest way to estimate your retirement savings target.
Step 1:
Determine your annual retirement expenses. This must include grocery and living expenses.
For e.g. You need about Rs.1 lakh month post your retirement, so yearly you would need about Rs.12 lakh.
Step 2:
Multiply this by 25 (12 lakh x 25), and you’ll get Rs.3 crore.
This is the amount you need to save to sustain annual 4% withdrawals without depleting your capital.
Keep in mind, this rule is designed for a 30-year retirement period. For longer retirements, adjustments should be made. It’s worth noting that the Rule of 25 doesn’t account for inflation or unexpected expenses like healthcare bills.
Is FIRE right for you?
A financial planning tool helps you to assess your financial health. Based on this report you can take action towards becoming financially independent. You may also take advice from Geojit’s certified financial planners and get customized financial plans.
While the idea of early retirement is appealing, the FIRE movement isn’t suitable for everyone. Achieving FIRE requires significant discipline and sacrifice. It is a long-term goal that can take many years to achieve. You need to stay committed to your financial plan throughout the journey, Geojit’s financial planning service is one such service that can help you build a retirement plan.
In conclusion, the FIRE movement is a compelling path for those who are willing to commit to financial discipline and prioritize long-term financial independence. Early retirement can provide the freedom to pursue your passions, spend more time with loved ones, or simply enjoy life to the fullest.
Beyond the financial aspects, retirees often face questions about how to spend their time, maintain social connections, and find a sense of purpose. Transitioning into a post-retirement life should be well thought out to ensure a fulfilling and enjoyable experience.
If you’re considering joining the FIRE club, it’s essential to assess your financial situation, set clear goals, and take the necessary steps to achieve your dreams of early retirement.
