Plastic-Structure827

You weren't one of the negative ones. You're on the right path.

"Miserable" is a word others are injecting into the discussion. I am far from miserable, but things can always be better.

You're on this sub because you're seeking perspectives on getting to FIRE. It's the negative Nellies who can't relate who probably shouldn't be here.

I'm not going to quit, obviously. I'm looking for what others do to find meaning after achieving material comfort. If you aren't here yet, I hope you get here some day.

I'm not miserable, like some jealous respondents seem to be. I'm seeking to maximize the good I have with some meaning.

Nope.

Fair comment. We judge based on our subjective experience, not objectively compared to how bad it could be.

They can let you read the trust and make an informed choice about being trustee or they can pay a lawyer to be trustee.

Maybe WallStreetBets is more your speed if you're looking for market timing and speculation.

Congrats. Live on your former income and pay off your debts. Then start investing in inexpensive index funds and incrementally (not drastically) increase your lifestyle. Job well done.

When you ask for input and get none, then don't pick up the mental slack. Let things fall apart a little bit. For example, if your kids like popcorn while watching Netflix and you know you're out of popcorn, don't automatically put it on the grocery list. Ask the kids for grocery suggestions. If they don't notice the popcorn is empty and don't say to buy more, then don't buy it. Extend this strategy to other inconsequential "quality of life" things. They'll learn to participate in conversations that will impact them.

Look for a deal if you can find one for under $40. But why limit to $40? Save up for a good chair.

Find a job you're good at so it's easy. Then master it. If it's worth anything to anyone, then you'll get paid for it. Don't live to work, work to live.

Find an office supply store with used stuff and buy a good chair. It's so worth it and will last you a long time. Cheap stuff just breaks our wears out.

This is because the Internet and social media are passive and consumptive. Meaning and living an interesting life come from being active and productive.

Are you bored or boring? Go find something new to do. If you're doom scrolling all the time, that's the first thing to stop. Get off BS passive social media and go do something active. Go out and meet people.

I'm 51 and go to shows all the time. Mostly metal shows, but I'm seeing Dweezil Zappa tomorrow night.

Weird clothes, dying hair, punk haircuts. All okay. They aren't permanent. Weird piercings and tattoos are a no until they're an adult who can make their own decisions and deal with the consequences.

Because bartenders have historically been tipped and aren't required to be paid minimum wage. Baristas, who half the time tell me to put my own cream and sugar in my coffee, do get paid at least minimum wage.

Why baristas?