Imagine retiring at the age of 40. Envision not having to stress about making ends meet. Picture yourself not being constrained by money. People all over the world just like you live like this. It is financial freedom.
Every person you talk to will define financial freedom differently. I define financial freedom as being debt free and worry free about money. There are two elements to my definition, let’s discuss them.
To be debt free
Living debt free is to be 100% free of debt at the end of each month. This is more than not having a credit card balance. This means you do not have a car payment, student loans, or even a mortgage.
How can you buy a house outright? Some people are fortunate enough to be able to, I am not one of them and will most likely find myself taking out a mortgage (whenever I am tired of the apartment lifestyle). However, the important thing to remember is that financial freedom is a goal. One day, sooner than later by using my methods, you will pay off your mortgage. Therefore, it is important that if you have debt, a mortgage is the only one you have.
Worry-free about Money
This is a critical part of your financial freedom journey. You must find out what this means to you as each person has different financial goals. To me financial freedom means having a fully funded emergency fund (more on this in a future post), being able to pay all my bills in full, and have money left over at the end of each month to save towards a goal.
Imagine the feeling of ending the month knowing that you had $300, $400, even $500 left that you can use towards whatever you can imagine. After several months of saving you could finally go on that European vacation you have always wanted or buy the new iPad.
When you live your life with the goal of financial freedom you soon realize the potential to do more and be more. I know it is tempting to go see a movie or eat at your favorite restaurant but, remember if you save today, you can live your dream life tomorrow.
Your Financial Freedom Partner,
Joel Parker
