Have to agree with the consensus that the situation referenced in this thread is extreme to the point of being sad.

Although we live in RSF, our family has always been very “practical,” and are big savers/investors.

My wife and I wanted to retire at 50–we achieved that goal at 51, and should be able to live the rest of our lives the way we want to, primarily because we had a very clear plan.

In my estimation, the best thing a younger person can do is save/invest more than you think you’ll ever need, and seriously evaluate every expenditure–even when you’re making the big bucks.

That’s what we did, because, honestly, no one knows how long their gravy train will last–so many things can happen in life!

Even those making huge amounts of money, as we did as a couple, could see that income disappear over a 20-30 year period–so keep it while you have it!