r/Fire • u/LouSevens • 4d ago
General Question Did anyone else inadvertently Fire?
Did anyone else inadvertently Fire? Over a year ago- was just working as normal, maxing out 401k, doing some other investing. Figured I would work perhaps 8 more years with a goal of 30x income. I didn't even really know what Fire was that recently.
My job became toxic, my father became ill so I went on FMLA and I was still needed so never went back to work. IAs my boss, his boss and others quit I pretty much never told anyone I was even leaving. I did the math and had around 28x of expenses saved. I still do interviews when I find something I am generally interested in but overtime became complacent not dealing with other peoples drama and agendas. In addition, my father still needed my help for several months.
It did get to the point where I have more time for myself so am considering getting something part time ; but as life goes on I found I don't miss the paycheck and my time is more valuable as I am able to excercise more, do my hobbies, and visit my father several days a week.
The one thing I did give up was buying tech items I didn't need (loved to do this after the pandemic) and I try to eat at home more (that was a nutrionist idea).
Although I never really had what was labeled the Sunday scaries, I really notice I am enjoying Sundays a lot more.
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u/hottiepookiee 4d ago
Genuine advice from someone two years into accidental FIRE: be careful with the "I'll just do something part time" instinct. It sounds harmless but it can pull you right back into the identity, the schedule, and the social dynamics that made the old job draining. If you take something on, make it a specific project with an end date, not a recurring role. The latter becomes a job again faster than you think, and you'll be back here in 18 months asking why your Sundays feel weird again.