I have been a long time lurker in the forums. I saw a recent discussion about who is actually making this community worthwhile. So I got shamed into at least introducing myself.
The discussions have helped me a lot. At first the main thing was seeing that there might be light at the end of the tunnel. Also different stories have served as sounding board since its difficult to find people to talk about saving/investing/retiring early. Suomalainen’s blog has been really beneficial with family matters (thanks).
I live in northern socialist utopia with 4-8 job, family and a car. So at best I can aspire ERE-lite. I try to elaborate on my thoughts on achieving FI or more likely complain why is it so hard
There are definitely things that make FIRE harder to achieve in countries that provide a larger safety net through higher taxation. However you will also be more secure in your FIRE if you don't have to worry about healthcare costs bankrupting you/getting health insurance. It's all swings and roundabouts.
That’s very true. I could probably start drinking full time now and the society would somewhat take care of me
The combination of lower salaries in here, 30 % income tax (progressive), 24 % VAT and family to consider make EREing a whole different ball game. On the other hand, education was free and public healthcare still quite ok. Pensions is something my generation gets screwed since we pay for the bany boomers and will be left with scraps.
