A while back, this article appeared in CNA:
Clearly, the 5C's of yesteryear are outdated. Nobody chases country clubs and credit cards anymore. Condo and car still yes, but I think more and more people realize there are other things more important.
I propose to replace this with the 5Fs:
The 5F Pyramid
1) Financial Freedom
The foundation.
Goal: Money works for you instead of you working for money.
- Build investment income
- Remove bad debt
- Increase savings rate
- Own productive assets
- Target FIRE milestone
Question: Does this decision increase future freedom?
2) Freedom of Time
The outcome of wealth.
Goal: Control your calendar and energy.
- Design ideal work schedule
- Buy back time through systems
- Reduce low-value obligations
- Focus on deep work and family time
Question: Am I spending time on what matters most?
3) Fitness
The engine.
Goal: Build the body and mind that can enjoy freedom.
- Strength and calisthenics
- Cardio and mobility
- Healthy body fat range
- Quality sleep
- Mental sharpness
Question: Will my future self be stronger because of today?
4) Family
The heart.
Goal: Convert success into shared security, love, and legacy.
- Presence with spouse and children
- Financial protection
- Education planning
- Family experiences
- Values and character
Question: Will this strengthen the people I love?
5) Fulfilment
The summit.
Goal: Live with meaning, contribution, and inner peace.
- Purpose-driven work
- Mentoring others
- Spiritual growth
- Creative projects
- Service and contribution
Question: Why does this matter beyond myself?
I don't know about you, but after a stroke of epiphany, I realize the above 5Fs are what I have been chasing for all this time.
a good reminder to FIRE enthusiasts who are overly focused trying to increase their net worth to some magical FIRE number.
ReplyDeleteIts great that you have the diligence to come up with this framework. As I have to look after some OKRs and KPIs at work, I often wondered whether I should apply the some sort of goal-setting or OKR framework to my personal goals, but decided I'm too lazy to do so. I much prefer the incrementalism of Agile: take life one step at the time, and hopefully each step either makes me a better person, or the world a better place, or both...
Thanks! I guess at the end of the day we have to figure out what we are chasing for
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