I'm At F.I. Finally!

[IrishMoss]

Congrats on reaching your number.

As I mentioned in another thread (How much is enough) - the 4% WR is 4% of your investments INCLUDING the earnings from the investments. You can't double dip by taking the earnings and 4% - that's effectively a higher than 4% withdrawal rate.

Regardless - you're at FI or very close... but you may want to double check your numbers to make sure aren't planning a WR that is higher than is sustainable.

Sorry I misspoke. Of course I know one can't (or at least shouldn't) take both the 4% and earnings and yes I know the 4% withdrawal is based on the total portfolio, a portfolio which has already included gains/earnings/dividends.

I've confirmed my numbers in FIREcalc several times. I would like to add more to my portfolio for additional cushion, but technically, according to FIREcalc and other retirement calculators, the anticipated success rate right now is at 99.9% if my anticipated living expenses are accurate.

 

[HappyMinimalist]

Congratulations! Your financial prudence and perseverance paid off, not needing to work is such a sweet spot to be in.

 

[Cayman]

Way To Go Irish!

 

[PERSonalTime]

Congratulations! I'm really happy for you. You will enjoy your new retirement life, I'm sure.

 

[euro]

Congrats and enjoy!

 

[IrishMoss]

Just an update: I did indeed get laid off the end of October and I couldn't have been happier. Waking up with a smile on my face has been such a nice change. The timing was excellent and the stock market gains the last 5+ months solidified my position. Feels fantastic!

 

[Bryan Barnfellow]

Nothing like the feeling of being prepared and thus able to shrug off what might have been devastating news. Now, it's time to enjoy, enjoy, enjoy.

-BB

 

[flintnational]

Congratulations! Well done.

 

[Milton]

Nothing like the feeling of being prepared and thus able to shrug off what might have been devastating news.

+1

 

[IrishMoss]

Update:

I'm now 20 months into my retirement and I'm so happy and grateful for the freedom of early retirement. The relief and weight lifted from trying to justify my existence in a job that never was well-defined, in a truly dysfunctional organization, is sweet.

It might have felt different had I been happy and well-utilized at the company, but it was bad from day 1. I spent my entire 2 1/2 years hanging on through several reorganizations and socking away $$$$ as fast and furious as I could, with the hope of never having to work again once I was gone from that place.

After the layoff, which was a happy event for me, life suddenly made sense. :-D

 

[Katiek]

I love these sorts of updates! So glad everything worked out and thank you for sharing your story - it's great motivation!

 

[MarieIG]

Great news!