This is the only mantra some people heard through out their lives. The job becomes the center of the universe. “I can’t do that because I would have to quit my job and move.” “I have to work longer hours because I could lose my job.” “I can put up with the horrible work environment because the benefits and retirement are good.”

Let it all go and start living life for joy instead of for the paycheck. Start spending time doing the things that you love instead of plowing through work for thirty years HOPING beyond hope to be able to enjoy them when you retire from work.

Giving up the Paycheck Security

1. Forget everything you have ever been taught about how your life should be led. Create your own path instead.

2. Admit there really is no security in a job. The company could go under, the position could be dissolved or the industry itself could become obsolete. The security has to come from your own skills and abilities.

3. Create your own retirement. Set aside a portion of your income each month so that you create your own retirement rules. Don’t focus on shielding your money from taxes because, believe you me, the government is going to get their share one way or another. Focus instead on creating a foundation for the life you intend to lead.

4. Do what you love. There are people that will pay you to decorate their house, do their grocery shopping, maintain their garden or just watch their home. Set up a service doing what you know and are passionate about and provide a needed service to the people around you.

5. Be frugal in all things. Buy what you need, wait to buy what you want and save for all your purchases so that you pay cash along the way. Saving money is the quickest way to get to a place where you can live the life that you desire.

Retirement is just code for living a life that you enjoy. Choose to live that life now – no matter what stage you may be in – by ignoring the normal route and choosing a path less taken.