Your path to true independence starts with choices at your first job Early salary and negotiation set anchors that affect raises and long-term income Adopt habits like saving immediately automating transfers and living below your means to create funds for investing Use tools such as YNAB Credit Karma and Empower to track spending and net worth That helps you spot opportunities and avoid high-cost traps like owning a new car that averages per year Focus on low-fee index funds and ETFs inside tax-advantaged accounts Build side income through freelancing or asset monetization so your cash flow and skills grow together Think in stages keep an FU fund months aim for mini-retirement targets x expenses and plan long-term for full independence x Schedule regular reviews of your portfolio and career moves so your work aligns with your life goals and freedom Key Takeaways Treat your first job and each negotiation as leverage that compounds your lifetime income Automate savings live below your means and track finances with real tools Prioritize low-cost index funds and tax-advantaged accounts for long-term growth Build multiple income streams through polywork freelancing and passive sources Set clear FIRE milestones FU fund mini-retirements and full independence targets Set Your Intent What Financial Freedom Means for Your Career Today Start by naming the time you want back let that guide your next career move Define the goal control your time not just your money Financial freedom is the ability to choose how you spend your hours because you spend... Login to read full