How to Thrive on the Path to F.I.R.E.—Even with Kids!
Here’s the truth: FIRE isn’t about deprivation. It’s about intentionality.
And when you have kids in the picture, that distinction matters more than ever.
Deprivation vs. Intentional Living
The goal of FIRE isn’t to hoard every dollar until you hit some magical savings number. It’s to build a life that reflects your values—one where time, freedom, and presence aren’t squeezed out by work and financial stress.
That means spending less on things that don’t matter, and more on what truly does—whether that’s dance classes, a family trip to visit grandparents, or a weekly pizza night that keeps everyone sane.
You’re not cutting out joy. You’re cutting out what’s not worth it.
Expenses You Can Cut (Without Missing a Thing)
FI doesn’t mean cutting all fun—it means trimming the excess. Here are some things many families can reduce or eliminate, guilt-free:
Impulse buys at Target or Amazon: A simple 24-hour pause rule can save hundreds.
Overpriced kids’ clothes: Try thrift shops, swaps, or buy-nothing groups
Fancy gym memberships: Free YouTube workouts or local rec centers can do the trick.
High grocery bills: Meal planning + shopping lists = fewer “oops” purchases.
Too many toys: Fewer toys often lead to more creativity and less clutter.
Excessive takeout: Pre-made meals from the grocery store that can be quickly heated up instead (and on the table sooner than delivery!)
The key? Cut what doesn’t add value, and redirect that money toward your FIRE goals—or the things that genuinely bring joy.
Our Family’s Philosophy “FIRE, But Make It Fun”
It’s not about never spending. It’s about spending with purpose.
That means we still budget for things that make life fun:
Ice cream runs after school
Yearly family travel (budgeted and intentional)
A cleaning service that buys back hours of family time
Date nights—guilt-free
FIRE with Kids Isn’t a Detour—It’s Motivation
Kids don’t derail the FIRE journey—they give it purpose.
Raising a family while pursuing financial independence might mean a slower pace, but it also sharpens your focus. You want more time with your kids. More memories. More calm in your day-to-day. FIRE helps you get there.
What that looks like in real life:
Choosing a job with flexible hours, even if it pays less
Prioritizing a smaller home over a bigger one with a bigger mortgage
Saying “no” to clutter and “yes” to experiences
Teaching your kids what really matters—time, presence, and purpose—not just stuff
The Real Win: Freedom, Not Frugality
You can absolutely pursue FIRE and still enjoy the now.
The end goal isn’t just early retirement—it’s freedom of time and choice. The freedom to work less. Be more present. Say “yes” to opportunities. And yes—splurge on the things that light you up, without financial anxiety in the background.
Because at the end of the day, it’s not about the money—it’s about the life it lets you build.