In our discussions up to the point of making our decision to retire early we always seemed to come back to the point that we needed to downsize, simplify and enjoy life.
We had collected tons of stuff, but did any of it mean anything? We had unbelievable numbers of commitments, but were we getting things done? We were always on the run to get something, see someone or be somewhere, but did the important things get done?
We came to realize that we were running in circles and not having the time to do the things we felt were important to us. What was important to us was time together, not just time together, but true quality time to enjoy adventures together.
For those that do not know us, adventure can mean many things to both of us. I am very fortunate that Stacey enjoys many of the things I do, fishing, hunting, camping, etc. We also really finding someplace new to go to and explore. Sadly for at least the last 4 years we have not been able to enjoy these things as much as we would like to.
I just found a great post by Paul Yeatman over on the Retire for Less in Costa Rica blog, titled Our Retire for Less in Costa Rica Philosophy. This really sums up our own philosophy to our early retirement.