I have added a monthly countdown reminder in my work calendar to indicate the number of months remaining before my freedom counter starts.
I think when the freedom counter starts that is where my posts may be more exciting, right now we are dealing with foundational issues. How to prepare, learning tools to mitigate risk and just getting set up for this journey. It is more satisfying to watch something enjoy its freedom than it is to watch something in captivity. In any living creatures’ case, the behavior of a free being is completely different and inspiring. I want to inspire.
Financial Freedom
This supports my strong desire for financial freedom. You see I have my vision and have started the supporting work to realize my vision. Some of my foundation has been in place for a long time, other items I am revisiting because of recent unexpected events. The monthly countdown reminder is a metric to helps me see progress toward the desired outcome. It may be months away but the monthly check in centers me back on my vision and its proven that regular check ins on goals improve chances of success.
I know from experience that anything can happen in life. It is true, best laid plans can be sidetracked completely. In contrast, we can set goals and wake up one day realizing we are farther ahead. And, in a better place than we had ever imagined possible when we wrote the goal.
The one thing that has not changed is my desire and drive to achieve financial freedom. And now through the obstacles and false starts I understand what financial freedom means for me.
The Cards Can Be Stacked Against You
When you are employed and a good employee there are many programs and policies designed to retain you in your role. Companies invest in employees and they will take steps to see a return on that investment.
Consequently, this is one way that being a superstar at work can count against you in your journey to achieving financial freedom. An employer will only compensate you to a point that keeps you in your job. Additionally, this is why it can be better to start out as an entrepreneur. Allowing you to avoid the trap of a job having you. You will work hard and have challenges either way. And so, focusing on your purpose while doing your life’s work is critical.
If you think being an entrepreneur is risky, try working for someone else for 40 years and living off social security
Warren Buffet
I Thought I Was Reaching Freedom
In my case, my success at work had me thinking I was achieving financial freedom. However, I was not experiencing freedom with my time, my finances or my work.
Subsequently, I do have a much clearer understanding of what I need to do from here to achieve this financial freedom. And, my strong desire for this freedom is growing stronger. Much stronger.
It took some doing to get where I am today, and it will take some undoing to free myself of it.
It Is Your Choice
I choose to ensure that any wealth that I generate in my lifetime becomes generational wealth. And, gives opportunity to those who succeed me.
In my opinion having a pension and retiring at a set age is not financial freedom. First, if the body who controls that pension determines how much of it goes to beneficiaries without your input, your money is being held hostage. Secondly, you may even be losing your money. In my case the math tells me allowing the company to control my pension asset is a money losing proposition for me and my beneficiaries.
When Change Is Required
I believe in freedom of choice and having a say in my future. And, I am aware change is required.
Having control over my finances and building something that outlives me is my purpose.
You should have control and choice while you are alive regarding any asset that takes you your lifetime to build. There should be full transparency of your assets, even if a company holds an asset on your behalf.
Financial freedom involves creating passive income sources that will generate money for you 24/7.
Enough money that it allows you to do those things you enjoy doing. And, allows you to live out your purpose.
For me financial freedom also means that these passive income sources continue to generate money for others when my 24/7 draws to a close.
How Am I Progressing Toward My Freedom?
How do you know when your desire for financial freedom is strong enough to check it off the Mastery list?
When you know your goals are yours. And, you stand tall carrying a smile everywhere you go. Additionally, you have no interest in the latest shiny object in the shop window. Even more, your heart feels connected to the eagle that soars above. The eagle who inspired you in the first place as he gives you a nod in respect.
Free beings recognize free beings.
Additionally, all of our posts in the Personal Finance Series can be found here.
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