How I Became Freedom Rich

Being rich is having money; being freedom rich is having time and choice.

— Anonymous

First Taste of Independence

After graduation, I entered the workforce with a degree and big dreams, eager to make my mark. I landed a job in the sales department of a respected multinational company. Having relied on my parents for pocket money for years, I was delighted to earn my first salary—a major milestone. It brought a small but sure sense of independence, making me feel on top of the world.

As Sales Officer @ SmithKline Beecham, India (1996)

Determined to succeed, I devoted myself completely to work. Long hours felt like stepping stones to a stable income. Each promotion pushed me to aim even higher.

As my professional life flourished, my personal life blossomed too. I married someone who believed in my dreams, and soon, we welcomed a son. With a secure job, a loving family, and a promising future, I seemed to have achieved the societal tag ‘settled in life’.

With my wife and son (2006)

Success Becomes a Burden

I moved from one city to another, embracing new roles and taking on ever-increasing responsibilities. Life became a race to succeed, dominated by endless travels and hours spent glued to my laptop, crunching numbers on Excel sheets. And before I knew, 15 years had flown by.

The relentless schedule began to take its toll. Morning walks, once a vital part of my routine, disappeared. Hurried and irregular meals, often reduced to fast food grabbed on the go, and late dinners were slowly affecting my health. I started gaining weight, and minor health issues began to surface. But I brushed them aside, convincing myself they were temporary.

With my team at a restaurant

Amidst this hectic pace, I took a bank loan to build my dream house. Although a source of pride, it added to the stress. The weight of the financial pressure pushed me harder, driving me to prioritize work above all else. In chasing stability and success, I unknowingly traded away my health and the joy of a balanced life.

The Trap of Professional Identity

My father had retired a few years back after having served as Chief Engineer in the Public Works Department. His long career had kept him busy and provided him with a strong identity, purpose, and daily structure. It also ensured he stayed socially connected with his colleagues and other stakeholders.

After retirement, however, he spent most of his time watching TV, with no hobbies or interests to fill his days. The stark shift from a life of constant activity to one of inactivity was jarring—a warning of the professional identity trap, where individuals overly defined by their careers struggle to adapt to retirement. It made me catch on how retirement can leave someone directionless if one doesn’t prepare for the lifestyle changes it brings.

Outwardly, my life seemed perfect—stable job, bright future, and good social status. But in reality, I was overwhelmed by endless meetings, constant pressure, and tight deadlines. My hobbies—photography, travel, and writing—which once brought me joy, had taken a backseat.

The Epiphany That Changed My Perspective

I realized I was heading down the same path as my dad’s! I could see the parallels—how I, too, had let my work define me, my identity shaped by professional titles and achievements. The thought of waking up one day to find nothing beyond my career filled me with dread; it was a wake-up call, an alarm that I couldn’t ignore.

The products I was selling became my identity

In 2007, this epiphany planted itself firmly in my mind, refusing to fade. I couldn’t stop questioning myself: How could I reconnect with the passionate, vibrant person I had once been? In my college days, I thrived on photography and writing, supported by my father’s money and the luxury of time outside my studies. But with a demanding job and a family to care for, those joys felt like distant echoes, impossible to reach.

However, for more than a year, I wrestled with some questions: How could I craft a life that extended beyond the confines of my job? How could I ensure I don’t lose my identity when my career eventually ended? I didn’t get answers all at once, but by early 2009, a shift began in my approach to work. I could see the steps I needed to take in my journey to reclaim my passions I had long set aside.

Holding my SLR camera beside my professor, Dr. Paul Love (1991)

Steps Towards Early Retirement

I envisioned a freedom-rich life—a life free of rigid schedules, societal expectations, and the endless chase for material success. Freedom rich, the ultimate form of wealth, means having the autonomy to choose how one spends one’s time. I desired the liberty to pursue my passions wholeheartedly without having to worry about targets—travelling to unknown corners of the world with my camera and writing stories. Freedom rich, to me, meant the possibility to dedicate my time to what truly inspired me.

This wasn’t just a dream; it was a goal that demanded action. Gaining control over my time was all-important. Waiting until 58 to retire wasn’t an option anymore. And early retirement wasn’t just about leaving my job; it meant building a sustainable path towards a life of freedom, without structured routines. To reach my goal, I needed a plan, a road map, to exit the traditional workforce and start pursuing what mattered the most to me. This plan would serve as my blueprint for transformation.

I broke down the plan into five foundational pillars, which would help me steadily work towards becoming freedom rich:

1. Financial independence

2. Health and fitness

3. Cultivation of hobbies

4. Lifestyle changes

5. Family and friends

Here I briefly talk about these five pillars.

1. Financial Independence: The Road to Freedom

The biggest challenge I faced was financial independence. Attaining financial security felt like a huge mountain to conquer.

I began tackling this issue by asking myself some tough questions: What would life be without a pay cheque? What would be the expenses I would need to cover for my family and me? I realized that a clear understanding of my future expenses—household expenditure, child’s education, family medical needs, travel, retirement fund, and the unexpected—was key to knowing how much I would need to save.

With this newfound clarity, I came up with a decision to work for another 15 years, saving diligently and making prudent investments to build a strong financial foundation. This goal shifted my perspective on work—work was no longer just a daily grind but a purposeful step towards the life I envisioned.

After a year, I accepted an overseas assignment, which marked a turning point in my life. It provided the financial lift I needed. Within 2 years, I paid off my house loan—a huge burden finally off my shoulders. Having achieved this milestone, I directed all my energy towards building a solid retirement fund, inching closer to the freedom I had imagined.

Over time, I felt more in control of my future. What once seemed impossible now felt achievable, one step at a time.

2. Health and Fitness: How I Turned My Health Around

Health and fitness are crucial to living a fulfilling life, especially if one loves exploring the world. Travelling often means walking long distances, climbing stairs, carrying luggage, and adjusting to different climates—daunting prospects if one is not physically fit.

Thanks to bad lifestyle, my health had taken a toll. I was obese, had low energy levels, and was dealing with health issues that required medical attention. Something had to change.

With my friend Israt during a morning walk at Gulshan Park, Dhaka

After some research, I decided to try intermittent fasting. Although tough at first—adjusting meal times, eating clean, resisting cravings, and paying attention to my body—I stayed committed. In 8 months, I lost more than 25 kilogrammes.

I also built a disciplined daily routine: I ensured a 1-hour brisk walk every morning and 7 hours of sleep each night—something I had ignored for years. Gradually, my energy returned, my health improved, and I needed fewer medications.

These changes renewed my confidence and allowed me to embrace life with a lighter body and a stronger spirit.

3. Cultivation of Hobbies: Rediscovering Myself Through Photography

In 2009, I decided to reconnect with myself by returning to photography—a choice that changed my life. Weekends became time outdoors with my camera, giving me a break from work and a chance to rediscover the joy of capturing moments.

With my friend Shovan during a birding trip

These outings not only rekindled my love for photography but also introduced me to a diverse community of people—teachers, doctors, entrepreneurs—who offered new perspectives. As my passion grew, I upgraded my equipment, honed my skills, and started sharing my photos on social media, which helped me connect with like-minded individuals and stay motivated.

Eventually, I created a website to showcase my work and share my stories. Photography became more than just a hobby; it improved my well-being, reduced stress, and fostered personal growth. What began as a way to reconnect with myself evolved into an activity that brought more meaning to my life.

4. Lifestyle Changes: Transforming My Life for the Better

To achieve financial independence, changing our lifestyle is paramount. Cutting unnecessary expenses, budgeting wisely, and avoiding lifestyle inflation (the tendency to increase spending as your income rises) help save more. A simpler lifestyle also prepares us for uncertainties and enables us to reach our financial goals faster. Moreover, focusing on experiences over possessions brings real happiness.

Opting for homestays during my birding trips with friends in Bangladesh

I started this step by reassessing my needs. For instance, I questioned whether owning a car was essential. By letting it go, I did away with maintenance and insurance expenses. Similarly, on my travels, I swapped luxury hotels for budget-friendly homestays, deepening my cultural experience and connections, and started opting for local family-run eateries instead of fancy restaurants; simple meals, like the humble Indian thali (a nutritiously balanced meal), bring better satisfaction.

The biggest transformation came in choosing a home. Instead of buying an expensive city apartment, I built a modest house in a peaceful small verdant town—a retreat to recharge between travels. More than just financial decisions, these choices were conscious steps towards aligning my life with my new values of simplicity and contentment.

5. Family and Friends: Partners in Adventure

I believe that achieving a dream goal is rarely a solo endeavour; the support of family and friends helps us better navigate through the ups and downs in our journey.

My son played a crucial role in turning my ideas into reality. He built my website and manages it, patiently guiding me through its features. He also introduced me to the latest photography and video editing tools, enabling me to present my stories with greater professionalism.

My wife’s quiet support has been the foundation of my success. While I travel, she seamlessly manages our home, ensuring everything runs smoothly. Also, being an editor, she refines my blog drafts, enhancing clarity, coherence, and conciseness while preserving my voice. Her thoughtful edits ensure my stories reflect my intended meaning. Although her contributions remain behind the scenes, they are essential, making her an integral part of all my achievements.

My friends—my travel partners—provide guidance and support. Their ideas, planning, logistics, and problem-solving facilitate exploration of remote places and capture of diverse perspectives.

With my travel partners Latha and Jamal

The value of teamwork lies in shared experiences. Pursuing passions together makes the journey more enjoyable and meaningful. These friends are lifelong partners; we grow together by challenging each other.

Breaking Free: New Beginnings

For 15 years, these five pillars were my guide, helping me stay disciplined and on track. Each year, I would review my progress, marking what I had achieved and identifying areas where I could improve. It wasn’t always easy, but through constant reflection and course correction, I was slowly getting closer to having my dream life.

In 2023, I sat down once more to assess my progress. And to my surprise, I realized I had reached the desired financial independence. Also, I was in my best health. I was ready to take on the life I had imagined.

It was time to quit my corporate career. For three decades it had served me well, providing the financial stability I needed, but I no longer needed a monthly pay cheque.

I shared my decision with my family and close friends. ‘Why now?’ they asked, concerned about the stability I would be leaving behind. ‘How will you manage without a steady income?’

Their concerns were understandable, but I had spent years preparing for this moment. So I explained to them how I had organized my finances, paid off my loans, and built a safety net. I told them my desire to explore the world with my camera without having to worry about deadlines and targets—to reclaim my time and pursue my passions outside the confines of a traditional career.

When I told my line manager about my plans, she was initially surprised, but soon understood my vision and offered her full support.

My colleagues reacted in different ways. Some were curious and surprised; others were sceptical about my decision to leave such a stable career. Many, however, admired my courage to follow my dreams.

No Turning Back: Embracing My Brave New World

When I walked out of the office for the last time, I didn’t feel sad. Rather, I felt a sense of excitement—I was stepping towards my dream life. The path ahead, though unclear, was mine to create.

I started my new life by ticking off an item on my bucket list: the Everest Base Camp Trek. The cold, steep climbs and the thin air tested my limits, but each challenge felt liberating—a celebration of freedom.

During my Mount Everest Base Camp trek

On the trail, I met trekkers from various walks of life. Strangers became friends, offering encouragement, supplies, or a helping hand—a stark contrast to the competitive hustle culture of corporate life. Up on the mountain, success isn’t about outpacing others; it is about shared moments. Every milestone and every laugh over a warm cup of tea felt like a collective victory.

Now that my time is my own, I am exploring places I have always dreamed of visiting. My camera captures fleeting moments of beauty, and writing allows me to share not just about the destinations but the emotional journey I experience.

This new chapter of my life is exhilarating. The freedom to do what I like brings me a deep sense of fulfilment. The people I meet on my travels widen my perspective of the world.

Looking back, I feel nothing but gratitude. The road ahead may be less travelled, but it’s a road I’ve chosen. That I am able to truly experience life now is my greatest success. I hope my journey inspires you to take steps—big or small—towards a life you truly love.

Two roads diverged in a wood, and I—

I took the one less traveled by,

And that has made all the difference.

‘The Road not Taken’, by Robert Frost

Related posts:

• Trail Tales: Everest Base Camp Trek

• The Great Wildebeest Migration in Masai Mara

• Discovering Kolkata’s Heartbeat: The Spirit of Durga Puja

• Rocky Landscape of Lyari Riverbed

• Confessions of a Coucal

• Exploring Kathakali: Dance, Emotions, Myths

• Birdwatching Expedition at Arabian Sea

Do you desire a freedom-rich and healthy life? If so, and you are looking for guidance, I offer one-on-one consultations tailored to your needs. We’ll work on aligning your life with your values, managing stress, integrating self-care, and creating a road map to work–life balance and financial independence.

Reach out to paul@endlessexplorer.in to schedule your session and begin transforming your life.