I’m drifting, rather than planning early retirement. If I quit my job then I think my SO would not be amused:)
I do greatly enjoy your blog. It reassures me that if I did lose my job (knock on wood) then with a few lifestyle adjustments – I really don’t like the huge house I ‘adopted’ when I entered this relationship – it really wouldn’t take that much to get by.

When my SO’s daughter leaves the nest I’m hoping I can convince her that we should make some cutbacks. I think I could sell her on living in a shack on a beach in some remote location.

Hi just stopped by here and I like your site, I look forward to coming back and reading some more.
Thanks
Kevin

What a fantastic idea to share experiences/plans!

About my plan: I’m a recent college grad and finding a career I can be passionate about has been a rough experience, hence the early retirement plan as a backup plan. I’ve been thinking $800k but may settle for less (half of that amount is to fund a house and a kid). Anyway, should be doable in 7-14 years (16k savings in year 1, increasing by 7%/year net of inflation), depending on the career.

That said, my goal is to find a career that is so engaging I don’t want to retire. Because I know that, once retired, I’ll want to do something out there in the world and make a difference. Look at Jacob. He’s been trying new ‘careers’ too.

PS: all numbers in today’s dollars.

Ok Jacob, Here’s my 2 year plan. (I’m currently 33)

I’ve been hoarding my money and living frugally for the last several years. The only thing I really spend money on is training. I’ve been taking sailing classes and an working toward my Captain’s license, and PADI Divemaster Cert. By my 35th birthday, I should have a boat and a year’s worth of living expenses.

Also, I’m transitioning my professional skills from a high-end graphics skillset, to a more internet-based one. That way I can work from pretty much anywhere.

There’s a more to it, but that’s my plan in a nutshell.

@ John Ingle. Ha! Here’s one one my failed plans, selling T-shirts! Wanna buy one?

http://www.cluckpluck.com

Jacob,
I couldn’t find the link to send you an e-mail, so I’m going to pitch my idea here:

I could write a piece about “failed” plans. I’m 51, earn good money, and have been frugal longer than you have. But, I’m still not financially independent. “Acts of God” and bad luck have delayed my financial freedom, but voluntary simplicity was still worthwhile for me. I would have been if serious trouble if it hadn’t been for my frugal lifestyle.

A simple lifestyle gave me the space I needed to weather the problems without stress. It also gave me the freedom to choose work I enjoy and makes a real contribution to my community.

I’m healthier than my college classmates. Most people think I’m ten years younger than I really am. I think that’s because of the low-stress lifestyle I’ve chosen. Health and happiness are more important to me than living in a big house that I could not have kept when unforeseen circumstances arrived.

I anticipate being financially free in the near future, but I’m not likely to completely retire when that happens. My community needs people who do what I do. I enjoy having balance between work and leisure.

I’d be willing to write about my experiences if you would like that. Or, maybe I just did.

That’s a great idea. It’s always nice to hear other opinions and ideas.

@Feng – Sure go ahead: jacob @ … this domain name.