What Die with Zero taught me about FIRE

I've been working towards FIRE for a while now. The idea is simple: save and invest enough so that one day, work becomes a choice instead of a must.

Then I read Die with Zero by Bill Perkins, and it made me look at the other side. If you're always saving for the future, when do you actually get to enjoy the money?

Here are three ideas from the book that stuck with me.

1. Some experiences have a time window

Some things are best done while you're young and healthy, like backpacking, long hikes or picking up a new sport. You can still try them at 60, but it won't be the same, and some you might not be able to do at all.

Last year I went to Hokkaido and tried skiing for the first time. It's exactly the kind of thing that's easier to do now than to keep putting off for "one day".

2. Memories keep paying you back

Perkins calls this the "memory dividend". A good experience doesn't end when the trip ends. Every time you look at the photos or tell the story, you get to enjoy it a little bit again.

So spending on an experience isn't just a one-time cost. The earlier you do it, the more years you get to enjoy the memory.

3. Don't over-save

This one is a bit uncomfortable for someone working towards FIRE. If you die with a lot of money left, it means you worked hours you never got to use. Saving is good, but saving too much has a cost too: all the experiences you skipped.

Where I land

I'm still going for FIRE, because I want the freedom it gives. But I'm not going to save every dollar anymore. I'll keep investing steadily, and at the same time spend more on travel and experiences now, while I can enjoy them most.

I don't think you have to pick one side. You can save for freedom later and still live a little now.

If you've read the book, or you're also working towards FIRE, I'd love to hear what you think.

Just my own thoughts, not financial advice.