In this episode: downsizing, coastFI, redefining your goals, overcoming material attachments, and building community.

This week Ginger is joined by community member Anne, to discuss her process of downsizing and navigating the physical and emotional attachments we associate with objects, places and people. Additionally, the pair discuss the importance of taking mini-retirements, cultivating gratitude, as well as share some podcasts and books that have helped them on their journey. We often say FI allows you the freedom and space to discover what more you want out of life, but that doesn’t mean you should wait until you reach your goal to actually start making the moves to get there! Whether you’re near the finish line or just beginning, don’t wait to explore other possibilities that can elevate not only your FI journey but your life. 

🔑 Key Themes Discussed:

• The emotional journey of downsizing and letting go of possessions
• Achieving CoastFI and the realization of financial independence
• The significance of mini-retirements and experimenting with lifestyle choices
• Personal growth and redefining goals in mid-life
• The psychological effects of decision-making in early retirement
• Creating space for joy and gratitude in life transitions
• Overcoming attachment to material possessions and past dreams
• Building community after major life transitions, such as moving and career changes

🕒 Chapters:

• 00:00 – Introduction: Ginger and Anne’s Journey
• 01:00 – Anne’s Recent Move and Downsizing
• 03:00 – Discovering Financial Independence Through the FI Formula
• 07:00 – Defining CoastFI and the Big Epiphany Moment
• 10:00 – Reflecting on Personal Goals and Letting Go of Past Dreams
• 13:00 – Experimenting with Mini-Retirements: Learning from the FI Community
• 16:00 – Downsizing: The Emotional Process of Letting Go
• 22:00 – Influence of Family Illness and Death on the FI Journey
• 27:00 – The Challenge of Winter Depression and Its Role in Change
• 31:00 – Selling the Family Home: Closure and Moving Forward
• 36:00 – Gratitude and the Practice of Being Present
• 40:00 – Taking the Leap: Early Retirement and What Comes Next
• 46:00 – Finding Community and Building a New Life After Moving
• 51:00 – The Courage to Try New Things and Embrace Discomfort
• 55:00 – Final Reflections on Joy, Curiosity, and Living Without Regret

🔗 Mentioned Links and Resources:

• Contact Anne:  anne.andrew907@gmail.com
• “Disrupt Yourself, With a New Introduction: Master Relentless Change and Speed Up Your Learning Curve” by Whitney Johnson
• “The Artist’s Way: 30th Anniversary Edition” by Julia Cameron
• Retire Often Podcast
• Famous Failures
• “Think Like a Rocket Scientist: Simple Strategies You Can Use to Make Giant Leaps in Work and Life” by Ovan Varol
• Subscribe to The FI Weekly!

More Helpful Links and FI Resources:

• Top 10 Recommended Travel Rewards Credit Cards
• Empower: Free Dashboard to Track Your Finances
• CIT Bank Platinum Savings Account
• M1 Finance: Commission-Free Investing, 1-click rebalancing
• CashFreely: Maximize Your Cash Back Rewards
• Travel Freely: Track all your rewards cards and points
• Emergency Binder: For Your Family’s Essential Info (code ‘CHOOSEFI’ for 20% off)
• Student Loan Planner: Custom Consult (with $100 Discount)
• Get a cheaper phone plan with Mint Mobile