Living in a high cost of living area or urban environment can be very expensive. But it does not have to be. If you are intentional, you can enjoy all of the perks of the great location without sacrificing your long-term aspirations. We’re on our way to achieving financial independence and our location has actually played a big part in that. We believe that living in a high cost of living area has actually allowed us to fast track our journey to FI.
Our plan to reach FI is not to deprive ourselves to build up a nest egg so that we can relax later. We are not looking to not work or sit on a beach for 50-60 years. Instead, this journey is about lifestyle design, freedom, flexibility and security. We plan to take very intentional actions so that we can adjust our lifestyle along the way. Here’s a detailed look at what our plan currently looks like 4 years into our journey.
Savings rate has been one of the most influential financial concepts for us. In the past 5 years, we’ve more than doubled our savings rate. This has given us more freedom and confidence as we shift our long-term plans.
Even though 2020 was a challenging year, we had a strong financial year. We provide updates on our key financial metrics in 2020. We also learned several key lessons that will help us create our ideal life while pursuing financial independence.
Saving more money isn’t just about expediting your journey to FI, but enhancing it. It can provide you the opportunity to buy more freedom now by designing your life. Focusing on the big three expense categories can help you accomplish that without going too far to the extreme.
