This monthly report excludes any salaried income. The purpose of this financial review is to assess the sustainability of my financial independence, focusing solely on the total amount of passive income received. As of 2024 September 1st, I have officially activated my FIRE journey, meaning I am no longer receiving a salary from a traditional job.
Today is 1st September, the exact date I officially exited the workforce a year ago.
So yes, it’s been a full year. But strangely, it doesn’t feel like much has changed. I still go out on weekdays to do my own work, the difference now is that I do it at my own pace, and on my own terms.
I recently had a buffet lunch with many of my ex-colleagues. They were surprised to see that I haven’t changed at all. Some joked they expected me to have grown a “retirement belly” by now. LOL.
The truth is, I’ve remained active even after leaving the workforce. This is something I often tell friends who are thinking about retirement: retire with purpose, not just because you hate your boss or your job. Even a simple motivation, like wanting to spend more time with your family, is a powerful reason. Life is short. You either spend it chasing money, or creating quality moments with the people you love.
Simple? Not quite.
Many people can’t do it. Some are held back by fear, others by financial constraints. I too once struggled with doubts, especially the fear of losing my identity once I left the working world. But what I’ve come to realize is that I was never truly defined by that identity. Deep down, something in me had already shifted long before I handed in my resignation. That shift is what led me down the path of financial independence. So when I left, I left with purpose, not with regret.
Now, for the updates.
It’s been a “fat” month for dividend income — totaling $6,063.63.
Combined with other income sources, the total came up to $8,639.28.
As usual, our expenses remained steady. We continue to spend only on essentials, keeping things simple and intentional.
So yes, it’s the one-year anniversary of my FIRE (Financial Independence, Retire Early).
No regrets. Just gratitude and purpose.
Cash holdings have increased slightly with the recent dividend payouts.
Now, I’m waiting to see what happens with one of my counters, Frasers Hospitality Trust (Frasers HT) and whether it will be privatized.
The offer price is significantly higher than my original purchase price, so it's looking positive.
Let’s see how it plays out.
