In my blog writing as well as on my YouTube channel, Two Sides of FI, I frequently opine on the power that comes from time freedom - that is, once you’re no longer working to meet life’s expenses (whether you choose to term this “retired” or not), you largely own how you spend your time. Yes, there are always essential obligations: positive things like activities and occasions with family and friends, as well as “necessary evils” like timely bill payment, addressing the latest issues with your car or house, etc. But even after you take these things out, you’re still left with a
First, so glad you are back writing periodic installments to your blog, Jason! Your perspective is much appreciated, and I don’t think for one second you should feel bad about how you enjoy utilizing your time. Although they are home during the summer, my kids are now off to college for nine months out of the year, and that feels like an appetizer of free time compared to what will be coming down the road. Please keep sharing your thoughts as you are so inclined, as I enjoy every post.
"To FIRE aspirants: I promise you that these topics are trivial by comparison with the oft-termed “soft side” of FIRE."
Jason - you're SPOT ON with this statement, and your current challenge of protecting your time is a perfect example. I can totally relate to the "problem" of a side hustle becoming an obligation, and the irritating reality of how that can be a negative to something that is "good" from all other aspects. It's exactly the reason I've quit writing on a weekly schedule, and the new "random" schedule has brought the joy back into my writing. I don't have the answer for you, but I applaud you for challenging the obligations in your life. Best of luck wherever the journey leads you.
Great post - although only recently retired this year, I can already identify with it! I was so worried about being bored or becoming boring that I made this long list of activities, new hobbies, home projects, etc. to occupy my time. Sure, I've referred to this list but I'm amazed how wonderful it feels to just let the day decide! My inner voice still asks "So what have you accomplished today?" I always have answers but not the ones I expected myself to have! Thanks for sharing your perspectives!
I’ve always been allergic to people advising me what to do with my time/money/ garden/ etc when I didn’t specifically ask for it. It seems to have become worse since I quit my payed job.
Know that you’re not alone in procrastinating on stuff you know you should do but don’t want to work on right now....I’m looking at a pile of camping gear I need to clean and put away...I’d much rather potter in the garden right now. But, I know I will thank myself after all is tidied away, in good shape for the next camping trip.
My strategy: every day, do at least 1 thing you’re future self will be grateful for. By imagining my future self being pleased I tidied that camping gear/mowed the lawn/ chopped the wood/ ironed the laundry (nothing better than sleeping under freshly ironed sheets, right?) it makes it easier to actually spent time on it.
It’s refreshing to read about the soft stuff, keep up the good work!
First, so glad you are back writing periodic installments to your blog, Jason! Your perspective is much appreciated, and I don’t think for one second you should feel bad about how you enjoy utilizing your time. Although they are home during the summer, my kids are now off to college for nine months out of the year, and that feels like an appetizer of free time compared to what will be coming down the road. Please keep sharing your thoughts as you are so inclined, as I enjoy every post.
"To FIRE aspirants: I promise you that these topics are trivial by comparison with the oft-termed “soft side” of FIRE."
Jason - you're SPOT ON with this statement, and your current challenge of protecting your time is a perfect example. I can totally relate to the "problem" of a side hustle becoming an obligation, and the irritating reality of how that can be a negative to something that is "good" from all other aspects. It's exactly the reason I've quit writing on a weekly schedule, and the new "random" schedule has brought the joy back into my writing. I don't have the answer for you, but I applaud you for challenging the obligations in your life. Best of luck wherever the journey leads you.
Great post - although only recently retired this year, I can already identify with it! I was so worried about being bored or becoming boring that I made this long list of activities, new hobbies, home projects, etc. to occupy my time. Sure, I've referred to this list but I'm amazed how wonderful it feels to just let the day decide! My inner voice still asks "So what have you accomplished today?" I always have answers but not the ones I expected myself to have! Thanks for sharing your perspectives!
Wow, this is so recognizable!!
I’ve always been allergic to people advising me what to do with my time/money/ garden/ etc when I didn’t specifically ask for it. It seems to have become worse since I quit my payed job.
Know that you’re not alone in procrastinating on stuff you know you should do but don’t want to work on right now....I’m looking at a pile of camping gear I need to clean and put away...I’d much rather potter in the garden right now. But, I know I will thank myself after all is tidied away, in good shape for the next camping trip.
My strategy: every day, do at least 1 thing you’re future self will be grateful for. By imagining my future self being pleased I tidied that camping gear/mowed the lawn/ chopped the wood/ ironed the laundry (nothing better than sleeping under freshly ironed sheets, right?) it makes it easier to actually spent time on it.
It’s refreshing to read about the soft stuff, keep up the good work!
Can I ask which part of the podcast you don't enjoy working on? Maybe someone else would like to pick it up.