Die with Zero: Getting All You Can from Your Money and Your Life

by Bill Perkins

But if we could go back in time, I would say: Don’t wait. Do the bold thing now, rather than in retirement, because the go-go years are very short. In general, this whole “I’ll wait to do this when I’m retired” is a massive blunder.

what’s easy shouldn’t determine what you do. Don’t let difficulty dissuade you from living your best life!

figured that if the post office was always hiring, and provided a safe income, I could always go work there if all else failed; but there’s no need to start there.

Recommendations Identify opportunities that you’re not taking that pose little to risk to you. Always remember that you’re better off taking more chances when you are younger than when you’re older. Look at the fears that are holding you back, rational or irrational. Don’t let irrational fears get in the way of your dreams. Realize that at every moment you have a choice. The choices you make reflect your priorities, so be sure you’re making those choices deliberately.

By aiming to die with zero, you will forever change your autopilot focus from earning and saving and maximizing your wealth to living the best life you possibly can.

Rather than just focusing on saving up for a big pot full of money that you will most likely not be able to spend in your lifetime, live your life to the fullest now: Chase memorable life experiences, give money to your kids when they can best use it, donate money to charity while you’re still alive. That’s the way to live life.

Remember: In the end, the business of life is the acquisition of memories. So what are you waiting for?