Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 2952: Steven Keys challenges the traditional reliance on stock market returns for early retirement by demonstrating how financial independence can still be achieved, even with 0% investment growth. The key lies in disciplined saving, consuming less than you produce, and embracing a minimalist lifestyle to sustain your future, proving that early retirement is possible without relying solely on investment gains. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.tripofalifestyle.com/money/retire-early-without-investments/# Quotes to ponder: “FIRE has never been about investing. It’s based on something much simpler: consuming less than you produce.” “If you pick two apples today and eat one, then you can eat another apple tomorrow without having to pick any at all.” “Instead of insisting that your money last forever, you just need to make sure you’ve saved enough to last until you know.” Episode references: Social Security Administration: https://www.ssa.gov Mr. Money Mustache: https://www.mrmoneymustache.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices