I've heard so many fellow neuroscience PhD graduates working in those companies saying how this life can become much better in tech companies than in PhD but I always feel a bit resistant to that idea. But one argument I felt hard to resist is: that I will be able to secure a large chunk of money then retire early and then, my life will be free of any concerns.
So in this episode, I invited Evan who is a housemate in the same community house (reference: episode 14). He retired at 28 years old after working for Amazon and Google as a programmer. We talked about the technical "how-to"s, but also about happiness, the meaning of life, and personal growth? I'm very grateful that Evan gave a comprehensive and honest share of his experience of early retirement.
2:14 Life before retirement: how to spend all those money that a programmer can earn?
8:03 Why saving money is natural: living, housing, traveling
12:17 Don't you need money to buy the newest iphone?
15:29 Financial and mental preparation for retirement: how to feel safe?
19:53 How to not feel bored after retirement?
25:28 tricks in explain to family and friends about retirement
29:44 how to define my identity and value if it's not by my career?
33:56 the fact that I have so much spare time but not doing sth that changes the world
41:05 what's your best possible contribution to society? and problems with effective altruism
46:39 Period of feeling meaningless, depression, and loss of goal
55:27 How is social life and collaboration possible after retirement?
1:01:47 Don't want to become a provider for the sole purpose of having marriage and kids
1:07:30 A high-level summary: the real mental preparation is to be yourself
1:11:11 Biggest personal growth: the journey with social anxiety
1:17:09 How much money is enough for retirement? The calculation and the unexpected
Cover photo: Boba Jovanovic on Unsplash
Music: Ryini Beats (GuitarAcoustic guitar instrumental beat 2019 15)
