There’s an alternative to living my life with a perpetual debt cycle.
Epiphany: we are in debt because we spend outside of our means – a real “duh” moment for me. Or maybe it was an “aha” moment??
Being careful with our money gives us the freedom to afford what we love.
People are saving half of their incomes, sometimes more, and living very comfortable and fulfilling lives!
We don’t have to keep up with Jones’s. Guess what? They’re probably in debt up to their eyeballs anyway!
Lifestyle inflation is a thing and we can say – nope! Not for us.
My paid-off car works just fine. What? You mean I don’t have to finance a brand new car just because my car is 10 years old and has over 100,000 miles on it? Get out!

Glad you found FI. I too am pursuing financial independence but not 100% sure on retiring early. I’m trying to achieve work optional. Love that you included the sustainability piece – not something I would have previously considered but definitely something getting more of my attention lately.
Thanks Maria! You are my first comment! I love the work optional approach.
Great post! It’s so complicated, isn’t it, until you realize it’s not. You can do it! (And hopefully I can, too).
Thanks Deb!