Frank
Hello, this is Frank.
In this article, I’d like to explore how FIRE (Financial Independence, Retire Early) can realistically coexist with family life and raising children—drawing directly from my own experience.
This is a practical guide for anyone who wants freedom in life without sacrificing family, even while parenting.
1. What Is FIRE, Really?
FIRE refers to a lifestyle in which you achieve financial independence early and gain the option to retire—or work on your own terms. The idea is simple: build enough assets through investing and disciplined spending so that your living expenses are covered by investment income.
The key principles are:
- Clearly understanding your actual living expenses
- Executing a realistic investment strategy for asset growth
- Diversifying income sources to reduce risk
For beginners, the most important first step is simple but powerful: know your monthly expenses and define your target asset size.
2. My Journey: From Trading Company to Independence—While Raising a Child
I once worked at a trading company, but I eventually chose independence in pursuit of freedom. I became a business consultant, which allowed me to control my time—but balancing work with parenting was no easy task.
In practice, that meant:
- Adjusting my work schedule while taking my child to kindergarten
- Managing projects when my child worked as a model for TV, magazines, and catalogs
- Staying financially stable while remaining flexible for family milestones
What I learned through this process is simple yet profound:
True freedom is only possible when strategic asset planning and family understanding move in the same direction.
3. Life Today: Digital Nomadism and Purpose
Today, I work as a digital nomad, free from location constraints. Technically, I already meet the financial criteria for FIRE and could retire completely.
Yet I choose to continue working as a free agent, focusing on creative and meaningful projects.
Why?
- To pursue purpose and passion in everyday life
- To give back to society using my skills and experience
- To show my child that lifelong learning and challenge matter
FIRE does not mean “never working again.”
I believe that true financial independence means having the freedom to choose how—and why—you work.
4. Important Cautions About FIRE
| Risk | Example / Countermeasure |
|---|---|
| Overconfidence in asset plans | Prepare buffer capital for market volatility and unexpected expenses |
| Lifestyle inflation | Avoid rapidly increasing spending after achieving FIRE |
| Misaligned family values | Share and discuss your FIRE plan openly with your family |
| Psychological emptiness | Maintain purpose through work, hobbies, or social contribution |
In short, balancing FIRE with family life is not about quitting work early—it’s about combining:
- Careful financial planning
- Family communication and cooperation
- A purpose-driven approach to work
When these elements align, financial freedom and a fulfilling family life can coexist.
Those who interpret FIRE as “never working again” often lose control of their freedom—and end up being controlled by it.
Disclaimer!
This article is based on personal experience and general financial knowledge. It does not constitute investment advice or a recommendation for any specific FIRE strategy. All investment and career decisions should be made at your own discretion and risk. Future outcomes are not guaranteed.
If you’re interested in my published books, please take a look here.
Thank you for reading today.
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