Financial independence is one of the most sought-after goals in modern life. And yet, in my opinion, it’s also one of the most misunderstood.
For some, it conjures images of early retirement, sipping coffee on a beach, never having to work again. For others, it’s a vague financial milestone: a certain net worth, a dream income, a magical number in the bank, or just a phrase they hear uttered and are immediately drawn to it.
But at its core, financial independence is far more meaningful—and far more attainable.
For this issue of Simplify Magazine, think of financial independence as the ability to live life on your terms. It’s having enough financial margin to make decisions based on purpose, not pressure. It’s freedom, not from work, but in some cases for it—work that matters most to you.
We’re not offering get-rich-quick schemes, real-estate hacks, or promises of overnight wealth. This issue isn’t about escaping your 9 to 5. It’s about aligning your finances with your values so you can live a life you don’t need to escape from in the first place.
In this issue, you’ll encounter a range of thought-provoking topics. We’ll explore how frugality can lead to happiness, how financial organization brings peace and clarity, and how generosity becomes a pathway to true abundance. You’ll read stories of early retirement, mini-retirements, and mindful spending—and you’ll discover practical strategies to find freedom, not by chasing more, but by needing less.
The contributors to this issue come from many walks of life: bestselling authors, certified financial coaches, early retirees, podcasters, entrepreneurs, and creators. Each brings insight, experience, and practical wisdom to help you simplify your finances, reframe your relationship with money, and live your fullest life with greater intention.
My hope is that by the end of this issue you’ll not just understand financial independence more clearly—you’ll feel empowered to take your next step toward it. Whether that’s organizing your budget, redefining your goals, or simply pausing before your next purchase, freedom begins with one intentional decision.
With you on this journey,
Joshua Becker
Founder, Simplify Magazine
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