What is essential to ERE?

[jennypenny]

What are the essential attributes (mindset, actions, external and material circumstances) of a person that is ERE?

living in and facing up to reality
paying no mind to what you're supposed to be doing
being steadfast about the goal but not the method
building a system that can withstand significant setbacks in key areas

[fella]

I think most ERE people have the firm belief that they are in control of their own destiny/life.

I think you have to be careful with that, some things are within our control but much isn't. We don't live in a meritocracy and the more we believe we do the worse we seem to treat people who happened to be less fortunate than ourselves.

You definitely bring up a good point. I always try to be aware and thankful the of ways in which I'm fortunate, and being in a bad situation is often not that person's fault. My point is not to say that successful people are more "fit" or better in any way, just that it is important to have this mindset to make positive change in life.

[Campitor]

What are the essential attributes (mindset, actions, external and material circumstances) of a person that is ERE?

1. Flexibility. Evolve your skills and strategies to compensate for the external pressures, positive and negative, exerted on your financial independence, resources, and well being.
2. Mastery. Constantly educate yourself in regards to finances, self reliance, philosophy, and health in order to gain greater independence and flexibility.
3. Mindfulness. Question your motives and decisions frequently in order to live and act deliberately. Be aware of 2nd and 3rd order effects that impactful decisions may have.
4. Resilience. Be the "glass is half full" person in the room. Keep your mind and body healthy. Avoid unneeded negativity but knuckle up when obstacles get in the way of your systems and goals. Laugh frequently and deeply - its amazing for your health. Seek meaningful experiences.
5. Frugality. Husband your resources via efficiency; money, time, friendships, mental/physical energy, etc.
6. Discretion. Not everyone needs to know about your ERE philosophy, the state of your finances, or your future plans. Don't brag about "not being in the rat race." And your social capital will greatly increase if you know how to keep a confidence.