Man adopts frugal lifestyle for 2 decades to retire early
A 45-year-old Japanese man has achieved early retirement by adhering to a frugal lifestyle for over two decades. Inspired by the Financial Independence, Retire Early (FIRE) movement, he began this journey in the early 2000s. His decision came after securing a demanding job that required him to work extra hours, including late nights.
Man's savings strategy: Extreme frugality
The man, who earned approximately 5 million yen (₹28 lakh approx.) annually, set a goal to save 100 million yen (₹ 5.7 crore approx.) as quickly as possible. To keep himself motivated during this journey, he adopted the internet nickname "The Man Who Will Definitely Resign," according to the South China Morning Post. His company had suggested that hard work and overtime were the keys to future happiness.
Frugal living: The key to his savings
For over two decades, the man lived in a company dormitory for a monthly rent of just 30,000 yen (₹17,000 approx.). He scavenged for used appliances and furniture and kept his meals minimalistic and economical. His dinner often consisted of a sour plum, some salted vegetables, and a bowl of rice. Occasionally, he relied on energy drinks obtained through reward points at convenience stores or consumed cola and biscuits while watching prison-themed movies.
Innovative measures to save money
When his microwave broke down, he cooked sweet potatoes on his colleague's car windshield using the summer heat. He also skipped air conditioning and heating, choosing instead to cool down with a wet T-shirt in summer and warm up by doing squats in winter. After nearly 21 years with the company, his dedication paid off when he revealed that he had saved 135 million yen (₹7.7 crore approx.).
Financial independence leads to lifestyle improvements
Now financially independent, the man's life has improved. He enjoys four boiled eggs for breakfast and has invested in a microwave for hot meals. Despite these changes, he occasionally indulges in his old simple dishes. Netizens were thrilled to see him enjoying better food, with one user expressing relief at his recovery and noting that eating and sleeping well are the basics of good health.
Financial freedom threatened by currency depreciation
However, the man's happiness was short-lived as he recently revealed that his savings had significantly diminished due to the yen's depreciation since the start of the year. He expressed concern that if the yen continued to weaken, achieving financial freedom might remain out of reach. This situation could render his 21 years of hard work seemingly pointless and tragic.
