I Wanted to LIVE FREE! So I Had to Take EXTREME MEASURES!

Introduction

Introduction

In an era where the traditional nine-to-five job and a mortgage are often seen as the epitome of success, it's refreshing to hear a different perspective. As someone who craves freedom more than anything else, I had to take extreme measures to carve out a life that suits my vision. Here's a detailed account of my journey and the unconventional steps I took to achieve a freer life.

1. Selling 90% of My Possessions

My journey toward freedom began nearly ten years ago when I discovered the concept of minimalism. I was living in Gainesville, Florida, and I found myself increasingly intrigued by tiny houses and people living in small spaces. Their lifestyle seemed liberating, and the common denominator was minimalism.

After doing extensive research, I started downsizing, eventually selling 90% of my possessions. The result was an astonishing sense of lightness and freedom. With fewer possessions, my mind was open to new possibilities, like traveling and becoming a nomad—transformations I couldn't have imagined had I kept all my stuff.

2. Killing My Bills

The next step was eliminating unnecessary expenses. I started cutting out the tiers of bills that weren't essential and tried to reduce the ones I couldn't eliminate. Switching to more affordable services like Cricket Wireless for my phone saved me a significant amount of money. Gradually, more money stayed in my pocket, enabling me to manage fewer financial responsibilities.

3. Going Without a Car

Throughout my life, I've had periods where I chose to live without a car, the most recent being when I sold my vehicle back in December due to a blown head gasket. Having no car eliminates worries about upkeep, insurance, and loan payments, which in turn frees up more money for my true passions like traveling.

4. Opting Out of Credit Card Debt

I haven't had a credit card for over 25 years. I got my first cards when I was 18, maxed them out almost instantly, and realized this game wasn't for me. Cutting up those cards has kept me out of the debt trap that so many fall into, allowing me more freedom to spend my money the way I want.

5. Quitting Traditional Jobs

I've worked seasonal jobs for the last several years, steering clear of traditional nine-to-five employment. The idea of being tied to one place for an indefinite period just doesn't work for me. Seasonal work offers an end date, giving me the freedom to make plans for what comes next, and the varied environments keep me engaged.

6. Going Apartment-Less

After shedding most of my possessions, it followed naturally that I questioned the need for a permanent residence. I eventually gave up my apartment and have since lived in employee housing, Airbnbs, and hotels. This lifestyle frees me from long-term leases and the stress of escalating rental costs, albeit it comes with its own set of challenges.

7. Deciding Against Having Kids

I decided not to have kids, understanding that while I might miss out on a certain level of love, the freedom it affords me to live my life the way I want is invaluable. This has been a significant factor in maintaining my nomadic lifestyle.

8. Putting Dating on Hold

While I haven't ruled out the possibility of dating, it is not a priority right now. Romantic relationships can restrict freedom, and I'm focused on other goals. When the right person comes along, I'll be open to it, but for now, I'm enjoying my freedom.

9. Saving Money Regularly

From my first job, I've always saved money. This habit has allowed me to explore various ventures freely without the pressure of financial constraints. Even small savings accumulate to provide greater freedom than having no savings at all.

10. Starting and Sticking to a Side Hustle

Starting a side hustle, in my case, YouTube, has been a game-changer. This additional income stream allows me to take sabbaticals, fund my travels, and live the life I want.

11. Quitting Major Vices

Alcohol was my vice, and quitting drinking almost six years ago drastically altered my life for the better. Vices often keep us enslaved and distracted, and eliminating mine has given me more clarity and freedom.

Conclusion

Through these extreme steps, I've been able to cultivate a life that suits my vision of freedom. While this path isn't for everyone, it has enriched my life in ways I couldn't have anticipated. My hope is that sharing my journey might inspire others to take bold steps toward their dreams.

Keywords

• Minimalism
• Bills
• Carless
• Credit Card Debt
• Seasonal Jobs
• Apartment-less
• No Kids
• Savings
• Side Hustle
• Quitting Vices

FAQ

1. Why did you choose minimalism?

Minimalism intrigued me because it seemed to offer a simpler, freer lifestyle. Selling 90% of my possessions opened my mind to new possibilities like traveling.

2. How did you manage without a car?

Living without a car reduces worries about upkeep, insurance, and loan payments. I use public transportation, Uber, and other means to get around.

3. Why do you work seasonal jobs?

Seasonal jobs offer an end date, allowing me to plan my life freely. They provide varied, engaging environments that keep me excited about work.

4. How did quitting alcohol change your life?

Quitting alcohol eliminated a major vice that was keeping me enslaved and distracted, giving me more clarity and freedom.

5. Why don’t you have a credit card?

I've avoided credit cards for over 25 years to stay out of debt, giving me more financial freedom.

By following your own path and taking bold steps, you too can carve out a life of freedom and fulfillment.