The pursuit of happiness is often idolized through external possessions and achievements, like fame, wealth, or material possessions, as symbols of freedom and happiness. However, true retirement is achieved when one stops sacrificing the present for an imaginary future and finds fulfillment in the current moment. This can be attained by securing enough passive income to cover expenses, reducing expenses to zero, or engaging in work that is personally fulfilling. True wealth creation lies in creating timeless principles and adapting to make money by doing what one loves. Financial success is ultimately dependent on offering unique, creative work that adds value to society, rather than conforming to traditional career paths. Individual brands, with specific knowledge, accountability, and leverage, have the potential to become financial powerhouses by being authentic, unique, and irreplaceable in their field. The key to retiring successfully is to identify and leverage one's unique skills and passions in a way that serves society's needs, take risks, own the outcomes, and consistently deliver excellence.
Naval Ravikant is an entrepreneur and angel investor, a co-author of Venture Hacks, and a co-maintainer of AngelList.
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