What’s on Your FI Bucket List? | E186

If you’ve ever felt stuck somewhere between the excitement of starting your FI journey and the reality that the finish line is still years away, this episode will give you a practical way to stay motivated. You’ll learn how a FI Bucket List can immediately add meaning, momentum, and enjoyment to the process—no matter where you are on the path. This isn’t about spending more money; it’s about intentionally creating experiences that keep you energized instead of burned out.

You’ll also hear how shifting from a “save now, live later” mindset to a “design a meaningful life today” approach can completely change the way your journey feels. We break down how to choose bucket-list items that fit your values, your current season of life, and your budget. You’ll walk away with clear steps for creating your own version, whether you want more adventure, more connection, or simply more joy in your week.

Finally, the conversation highlights what the FI Bucket List reveals about the bigger purpose behind financial independence: freedom, flexibility, and the chance to build a life you actually want to live. If you’ve been feeling behind, bored, or disconnected from your "why," this episode will help you reconnect with the possibility, purpose, and excitement that originally drew you to FI.

Key Takeaways:

• Why a FI Bucket List is one of the most effective ways to stay motivated on a long FI journey
• How to design bucket-list items that fit your values, energy, and current season of life
• The mindset shift from delaying joy to intentionally integrating it into your journey
• How to balance saving aggressively and creating meaningful experiences today
• Why your FI “finish line” isn’t the real point—and what actually matters more
• How a bucket list helps reduce burnout, boredom, and the fear of “doing FI wrong”
• Practical examples of small, low-cost wins that build excitement and momentum
• The difference between running away from work and running toward a fulfilling life

Other Episodes You’ll Love:

Is Saving Too Much Holding You Back? | E179 Jesse Cramer

Mini-Retirements: Retire Often, Not Just Early | E177 Jillian Johnsrud

How to Get the Courage to Travel More Adventurously | E174 Jon Otero

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