What to Do After FI?

Internet discussion of FI (or FIRE) have become a bit of a trap. The vast majority of discussions define FI in the negative, by the lack of work. This is fine for most people who are years or decades away from FI, but as they get closer they realize that you can't define your life by not-working.

My suggestion would be to stop viewing the FI threshold as some sort of life changing event. You won't suddenly check your bank account one day, realize you're over the threshold, and suddenly feel fulfilled and free of your need to work. In fact, I can tell you from experience that it's a bit of a non-event.

I suggest you continue working until you have some idea of what else to do. Leaving your job is technically fine if you're truly past the FI threshold, but only if you have something else to do. You'll fine that there are a lot of hours to fill in a week without a job.

Traveling can be great, but unfortunately filling year after year with travel is likely to greatly increase your spending. Ironically, this can actually move you back under the FI threshold for a lot of people. It's a common mistake to calculate FIRE thresholds based on frugal spending when you're occupied by a job all week, neglecting the fact that you're going to be spending more, not less, in early retirement.

Use the time and resources to make an impact. Do you have any issues you care about in society that really hit home with you? You could help guide others less fortunate than you on the right track financially, emotionally, whatever you have to offer. There's people starving out there that could use a meal. There's kids out there with no one to look up to or to ask for guidance. There's a lot of injustice and organizations that don't have enough resources/manpower to reach their goals and some injustices go unnoticed. If you're not fighting everyday to survive, maybe you could come up with some ways to help other people survive. I imagine with all that spare time the hardest part of life would be feeling fulfilled. Helping people is one way to quench that.

I encourage you to do your best to live a satisfying and fulfilling life. However you want to do that is up to you. If it were me, I'd use the time to leave some sort of legacy behind for after I kick the bucket.

First of all, congrats.

Personally, I once took a year off in my mid-20s and realized that without external requirements I tend to just sort of laze about. Did some random things but nothing really focused even in terms of personal growth. So if I achieved FI I would simply find a job that I find fulfilling and is low-stress. Maybe work for a non-profit for some small salary. Or consult with startups for equity since that tends to not require as much commitment. I feel regular consulting for money requires too much hustle and client management.

I adopted two special needs children from bulgaria, very fulfilling decision if you are up to it and have the financial and mental means. So perhaps adoption is something you can consider!