Why Pursue Financial Independence? The Perks!

Why do you want to become Financially Independent? You now have your definition of financial independence and are intrigued enough to pursue it – but why?

It is important to know the why because this journey can be long, challenging, and at times boring. Knowing the “why” keeps us motivated.

And if we truly understand our “why”, we will have the answer when our friends and family ask, “So what’s all this Financial Independence stuff about?” You’ll confidently retort with your “why”.

Why Pursue Financial Independence?

Now, let’s get to the fun part. Why would you want to pursue financial independence? Is it just to brag at your next high school reunion? Well, that’s one reason (we won’t judge), but there are plenty more!

Perhaps you’re tired of the 9 to 5 grind, watching the clock, and waiting for the weekend. Or maybe you’re yearning for the freedom to take a two-week vacation without having to beg your boss for time off or worry about how you’re going to pay for it.

You might be dreaming of starting your own business, but you’re worried about how you’ll keep the lights on while your fledgling enterprise finds its feet. Financial independence can offer the safety net you need to take that leap.

Or maybe you want to make a difference in the world. With finances taken care of, you could spend your time volunteering, building schools in developing countries, or rescuing puppies from animal shelters (and who doesn’t love puppies?).

On a more serious note, financial independence can also provide security in uncertain times. We live in a world where job security is a thing of the past, and unexpected expenses can crop up at any time. Being financially independent means you’ll be prepared, come what may.

And let’s not forget about retirement. Financial independence means you won’t have to worry about living off a meager pension or working into your twilight years. Instead, you could be sipping margaritas on a beach or spoiling your grandkids rotten!

So, while bragging rights at your high school reunion are certainly a perk, they’re just the tip of the financial independence iceberg. There are a whole host of reasons to pursue this goal, each more exciting than the last!

Top Reasons You Should Pursue Financial Independence

Here are some compelling reasons to jump on the financial independence bandwagon:

1. Freedom of Choice: Imagine a life where you’re not tied to a job you hate, just because it pays the bills. With financial independence, you can choose a job you love, start your own business, or simply spend your time doing the things you love. Sounds more appealing than being stuck in traffic during rush hour, right?
2. Reduced Stress: No more sleepless nights worrying about bills, unexpected expenses, or whether you can afford to retire. Ah, just think of the peace and quiet… and the lower therapy bills!
3. Early Retirement: Who wouldn’t want to retire while they’re still young enough to enjoy it? Travel the world, spend time with loved ones, or take up underwater basket weaving (hey, we don’t judge your hobbies). With financial independence, the choice is yours.
4. Pursuit of Passion: Want to write a novel? Start a charity? Become a cheese connoisseur? With financial independence, you can pursue your passion without worrying about how it’ll impact your finances.

The Impact of Financial Independence on Quality of Life

Financial independence doesn’t just affect your bank account. It can lead to better health (less stress = fewer health issues), improved relationships (no more fighting about money), and overall happiness (because who isn’t happier when they’re not worried about money?).

Why You Should Be Financially Independent

Are you convinced yet? If not, let’s recap: financial independence gives you freedom, reduces stress, allows for early retirement, and lets you chase your wildest dreams. Plus, it lets you say things like “I’m financially independent” at parties, which is sure to impress. In actuality, I’d warn against that party proclamation. More on that later in Fiology.

So there you have it, folks. The pursuit of financial independence is not just a fancy fad for the rich and famous. It’s a journey anyone can embark on, with rewards that go beyond just money. We’re talking about freedom, peace of mind, and the ability to live life on your own terms (and yes, the ability to impress at parties, if full of understanding money nerds, is a bonus).

Why Would You Not Pursue Financial Independence?

Are you ready to jump-start your journey to financial independence? The road might be long and winding, but the destination is oh-so-worth it! Remember, every billionaire started with their first buck. And while we can’t guarantee you’ll become a billionaire, we can guarantee you’ll sleep better at night knowing you’re financially secure. So, get out there and start making your money work for you!

And the next time someone asks, “Why should you be financially independent?” you can confidently reply, “Why not?” And drop the mic. You’ve got this!

Additional Resources:

• What Is Your Why?  by Mark Trautman of marksmoneymind.com
• 5 Reasons to Pursue Financial Independence  by Roshawn Watson of lifehack.org
• Fathers on Financial Independence  by Mr. Rich and Regular of richandregular.com
• 16 Great Reasons to Become Financially Independent  by Jillian of montanamoneyadventures.com with your significant other, best friend, or close relative. Discuss the relevance it has in your life now and the relevance it may have in your future.
• What’s your why? My talk from Camp FI in April  by J.D. Roth of getrichslowly.org

• Emotions of Financial Independence  by Brandon of madfientist.com
• Valuable Lessons from My First Year of Freedom  by Brandon of madfientist.com

Take Action:  

1. For each of the 16 Great Reasons listed in Jillian’s article above, consider how you believe your life will be affected when you reach your FI milestone. Write these ideas in a journal and refer to them often to remind you why you have chosen to achieve FI.

Quote:

“I am no bird; and no net ensnares me: I am a free human being with an independent will.” from Charlotte Bronte’s Jane Eyre