FIRE stories
How people reached financial independence, how close others are, and what happened when plans changed. Every story is real, and written by the person who lived it.
“Some people get there early. Some get there late. Some get there twice, like me.”
Matt W
Featured story
At 40, Matt W cut back to one day a week to be there for his five kids. Ten years later the plan fell apart, and he went back to work. Here's what he learned, and why he'd do it all again.
Find stories like yours
We're just getting started: Matt W's story is the first. Reader stories appear on these shelves once they're sent in, edited and approved by the people who wrote them.
Early1 story
Stopped before 45
Mid-career0 stories
Stopped between 45 and 54
Near 650 stories
Stopped between 55 and 64
Public servants0 stories
Firefighters, police, teachers, military and government workers
Employees0 stories
On a regular paycheck and a workplace plan
Tradespeople0 stories
Electricians, plumbers, builders and other skilled trades
Small business owners1 story
Running it, selling it, or stepping back
Professionals1 story
Doctors, dentists, lawyers, engineers and more
Couples0 stories
Planning it together
Single parents0 stories
Getting there on one income
Late starters0 stories
Began saving later in life
Part-time and Coast FIRE0 stories
Working less, by choice
Went back to work1 story
And why they did
Be the first on your shelfPen names welcome.
On the way
Matt W talks with people on the road to FIRE, in written interviews and podcast episodes with transcripts.
Short pieces about one moment: the last day at work, telling the boss, the first Medicare card.
People partway there, sharing progress and doubts in regular check-ins.
Stories are personal experience, not financial advice. What worked for one household may not fit yours.
Retired, getting close, or changed course along the way? Your story could help someone take the next step.
Takes about 10 minutes. No account needed. Pen names welcome.
