38Chevy454
Thinks s/he gets paid by the post
I have noticed on this board and from personal contacts with early retirees (or even successful traditional retirees), there seems to be a high correlation between self-sufficiency and the capability to be ER'd. I will define self-sufficiency loosely as being reasonably proficient at home repairs or maintenance/upgrades, doing car maintenance and repairs yourself, controlling finances and portfolio, and generally able to handle situations using your own skills and abilities. Not having to rely on others to get things done.
This sufficiency seems to enable not just the financial savings of paying for stuff to be done, but more importantly it promotes the mindset that you can ER and make it without fear of the future. You know that you can deal with whatever comes up, without high potential cost or stress. It is not just the portfolio value you have, but the knowledge how to maximize the benefits or minimize the consequences of a situation.
This sufficiency seems to enable not just the financial savings of paying for stuff to be done, but more importantly it promotes the mindset that you can ER and make it without fear of the future. You know that you can deal with whatever comes up, without high potential cost or stress. It is not just the portfolio value you have, but the knowledge how to maximize the benefits or minimize the consequences of a situation.