How About That Shaker of Salt, Salt, Salt?
Let’s hear it for a shaker of salt salt salt and making money online.
Rihanna, singing, “Work, Work, Work…“.
Huey Lewis & The News and, “Workin’ for a Livin’“.
“She works Hard for the Money“, in a disco tribute by Donna Summer.
“Work B*tch” is a motivational banger by Britney that says if you want the good life, you better hustle.
And finally, “Working Man“, a rock ode to the daily grind and the monotony of labour by Rush.
I’d much rather replace all that with, “Salt, Salt, Salt” for a communal, laid-back vibe of Jimmy Buffett and his Margaritaville ethos: Tropical Escapism, Carefree Living and with a Frozen Magarita never too far away!
Early Retirement Picture Painted
All this time you’ve been working hard for the money.
But what about painting a picture of sun-soaked life filled with Shrimp Boiling, Flip-Flops Breaking and Booze in the Blender?
Then that missing salt shaker can truly be symbolic of a slightly disheveled but blissfully relaxed state of mind.
From Why to What
Whe you seriously consider replacing the day job with making money online you have to start thinking about what it really means to retire to something, not just from something.
It’s a shift that’s more than financial.
It’s about finding your next purpose, your new community, and the daily structure that makes life worth living.
“The What” as opposed to your why.
Retirement: The Start of Your Next Chapter
Let’s be honest, the idea of leaving work can feel like leaving behind a big part of your identity.
The people, the routine, and the sense of accomplishment…these don’t just disappear overnight.
Where will you find those connections once you either retire or declare an early retirement?
Many find fulfillment by joining online communities, volunteering, or even building something new from scratch.
For me, affiliate marketing has become that outlet – a way to stay sharp, engaged, and part of something bigger than myself.
Plan for the Go-Go Years
Retirement isn’t just about stretching your savings; it’s about spending time on what matters while you’re still active.
Don’t be afraid to enjoy these years.
Travel, tackle your bucket list, and invest in experiences.
But do it smartly: keep a cash wedge (2-5 years of living expenses is wise), and don’t let high investment fees eat away at your future.
If you need some ideas of where to get started, I recommend you firstly read The Beginner’s Advantage Report.
Purpose, Structure, and New Skills
Retirement is 10% financial and 90% psychological.
You might feel a little lost at times – that’s normal.
The key is to keep your days structured and your mind active.
Consider daily tracking of your habits, plan tomorrow today, and don’t shy away from learning new skills or building on the ones you already have.
Whether it’s cooking, coaching, or connecting with likeminded folks in an online group, keep growing.
The sense of belonging and accomplishment is priceless.
Have the Conversations That Matter
Don’t ignore the tough stuff: update your will, make sure your executor knows where to find important documents, and talk openly with your family about your plans.
And when it comes to money, work with a planner to stress test your plan – what if you or your partner faces a health crisis, or you need to move?
Having 3-5 years of cash flow mapped out will let you sleep easier.
Choose Experiences—And Community—Over Stuff
At the end of the day, it’s not just about the numbers in your account.
It’s about who you spend your time with, what you wake up excited to do, and how you keep making a difference.
Don’t tune out your purpose.
Early retirement can certaininly be all about some good go-go years but it works best if you put yourself out there, establish an online presence, get involved with online and offline communities.
Just don’t do it alone!
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