[MoneyGuy]

Originally Posted by CliffFletcher

I have a friend who retired at 43. Started work as an engineer in the early 80s straight out of university, paid off his house within 5 years, lived like a pauper (still does), invested everything left over after his meager expenses, got a buyout after 20 years on the job, and retired. Owing to the stock market, he has twice as money on the bank now as when he retired 12 years ago.

Some things to keep in mind. The interior of his house looks exactly the way it did when he bought it in 1982 - same carpet, linoleum, etc. Never had kids. Married late in life to someone who is also dedicated to an incredibly frugal lifestyle.

It's not just a matter of discipline. You need a certain temperament, which is probably inborn.

I would be miserable in this situation. To each his own.