Well, you should start planning the moment you start working. Don't waste money on the latest greatest gadgets. Save and invest.
Create positive cash flow from your investments. You should aim at 75-100+% of your pre-retirement, after-tax income.
Anyone can retire in their 40s or 50s. I started planning late in my career and still retired at 52.
As for the retirement itself, well, don't raise chickens, and don't live in the country!!! That is just stupid.
You need to live a comfortable life, close to hospitals (in case you need them), close to other people.
Isolation in the country can create mental problems for some people.
Take care of your health, exercise regularly, lift weights, do calisthenics, etc. Stay in the 20-21 BMI range.
Don't smoke or drink alcohol. Do medical checkups/tests every 6-12 months. Eat good food, and drink clean/spring water.
Enjoy reading, studying, or doing whatever makes you happy.
Life is a one-way street. Once it is gone, it is really gone.
The only thing I wish I had done sooner is to invest in real estate and retire at 42 instead of 52.
The most valuable commodity is time. Price yours accordingly.
This was truly great advice. Thanks for sharing. If it does not break privacy rules, would you be kind enough to share some more details and answer a few questions.
1. You said you started planning late but retired at 52. Did you have a target about when to retire based on a certain net worth, assets etc?
2. This next always has me confused. Does retirement mean leaving a 9 to 5 job or does it means one stops working altogether and lets his investments (assets) pay the expenses? Your opinion.
I am yet to start a family but I already feel like a 9 to 5 job cannot be a lifelong commitment. I have savings but I have no idea how to estimate them from a retirement target POV. I would love to recommit and have the kind of healthy and self-caring lifestyle that you mention towards the latter part of your post. Once again, Amazing share. Thanks for this.