FI Series #1: Why Financial Independence?

Financial Independence
Written By Josh Short

What If Work Was Optional?

Imagine waking up each day knowing your bills are covered—not by a paycheck, but by the investments and savings you’ve built. No boss, no commute, no need to trade time for money.

That’s the promise of Financial Independence (FI).

FI isn’t about quitting your job forever (unless that’s your goal). It’s about choice. The choice to:

  • Work less—or not at all

  • Start a business or passion project

  • Take a sabbatical

  • Spend more time with family

  • Travel on your schedule—not someone else’s

If that sounds out of reach, you’re not alone. But many people have already done it—many in 10–15 years or less. And in this blog series, I’ll show you how.

What You’ll Learn in This Series

This is your roadmap to financial independence—broken down into clear, manageable steps. Whether your goal is early retirement, career flexibility, or simply breathing room, you’ll learn how to:

  • Define what FI means for you

  • Calculate your personal “FI number”

  • Build smart savings habits

  • Invest for long-term growth

  • Avoid lifestyle creep

  • Create a sustainable withdrawal strategy

  • Design a post-FI life filled with meaning

I’ll also cover tax-smart strategies and how to make smart financial decisions—even if you don’t want to retire.

Who This Series Is For

This series is for you if you:

  • Feel stuck in the 9-to-5 and want more freedom

  • Are a DIY investor wanting clear, evidence-based steps

  • Want to spend more time on what matters—family, travel, meaningful work

  • Believe there has to be a smarter way to reach financial security

You don’t need to be a finance expert or make six figures. You just need to be intentional—and a little bit curious.


Meet Your Guide

Josh Short, CFP® — Founder of OptimalPath Advisors





Hi, I’m Josh Short, a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® professional and founder of OptimalPath Advisors. With over 20 years in financial services, I help people like you design a clear, flexible path to financial independence—with flat-fee, commission-free advice.

This blog series is adapted from my full-length FI guide and is completely free to read, reference, and share.



🔗 This post is part of the Financial Independence Blog Series.
Build the habits and mindset to make work optional.

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Coming Next:

→ What Is Financial Independence? (It’s Not Just About Early Retirement)

Josh Short