Which Expenses Are Worth Keeping (Even in FIRE)

FIRE isn’t about spending nothing.

It’s about spending deliberately.

Some expenses earn their place — even on the path to early retirement.

1. Health (Physical & Mental)

Gym memberships you use.

Therapy.

Preventative care.

Energy and longevity are non-negotiable assets.

2. Experiences With People You Love

Trips.

Dinners.

Shared memories.

You won’t remember the interest rate — you’ll remember the moment.

3. Tools That Save Time or Stress

A reliable laptop.

A dependable car.

Good software.

Efficiency compounds too.

4. Education & Skill Building

Books.

Courses.

Certifications.

Knowledge is portable wealth — it pays forever.

5. Quality Over Quantity Purchases

Fewer items.

Better items.

Replacing cheap things repeatedly is expensive and exhausting.

6. Child-Related Spending (When Intentional)

Activities.

Learning.

Opportunities.

Money invested in your kids is not a waste — it’s a legacy.

7. Modest Comforts You Truly Value

Coffee you love.

A favorite hobby.

One luxury — chosen consciously.

Joy doesn’t disqualify you from FIRE.

The Test That Decides Everything

Ask this:

| “Does this expense make my life meaningfully better?”

If yes — keep it.

If not — release it.

The FIRERANT Perspective

FIRE isn’t about deprivation.

It’s about alignment.

Spend freely on what matters.

Cut aggressively on what doesn’t.

— Jackson