Part 4: Designing Freedom: The 'Relaxed Employment' & Net Zero Debt Numbers

In Part 1, a 9-milestone roadmap was laid out, and in Parts 2 and 3, the foundation and momentum were built. With safety established and wealth-building underway, we can now get to the milestones that can fundamentally alter a life's trajectory.

These next two numbers are about more than just money; they are about designing a life with more freedom, flexibility, and intention. They change the relationship with the two biggest financial anchors in most people's lives: debt and work.

Milestone #5: The 'Net Zero Debt' Number

This is a powerful psychological milestone. A person reaches "Net Zero Debt" when the value of their investments is equal to or greater than the value of all their debts, including a mortgage.

The Logic: A Position of Financial Power. A person is not necessarily debt-free at this stage. They might still have a 3-4% mortgage, which, as discussed, can be a strategic financial tool. The point is that the investment portfolio is large enough to wipe out every single dollar owed with the click of a button. The option to become completely debt-free exists at any moment. As I explored in my Own vs Rent Analysis, a mortgage can make sense, but having the power to eliminate it on your own terms is the ultimate security.

The Psychology: From Owing to Owning. Reaching this number provides an incredible sense of stability and control. The bank doesn't own the house; the individual effectively does. Debts no longer feel like a weight on the future; they feel like a manageable tool that has been chosen for use. This mental shift from "I owe" to "I own" is a profound step toward a mindset of abundance.

Milestone #6: The "Relaxed Employment" Number (Coast FIRE)

This is one of the most liberating milestones on the entire roadmap. The "Relaxed Employment" number (often called Coast FIRE) is reached when enough money has been invested that, even if not another dollar is saved, it would grow to a full retirement number by the target retirement age.

The Logic: Letting Compound Growth Do the Work. Once this number is hit, the pressure is off. Saving for retirement is no longer a necessity; the only need is to earn enough to cover current living expenses. Compound growth will take care of the rest.

For example, if the goal is to have $2 million by age 60, the "Relaxed Employment" number at age 35 would be approximately $368,500. Assuming an average 7% annual return, that amount invested at 35 would grow to over $2M by age 60 without adding another dollar.

Age	Starting Balance	Growth (7%)	Ending Balance
35	$368,500	$25,795	$394,295
45	$724,850	$50,739	$775,589
55	$1,426,268	$99,839	$1,526,107
60	$2,000,020	$140,001	$2,140,021

The Psychology: Redefining a Career. This milestone is the ultimate career game-changer. The freedom it provides is immense. A person can take a lower-paying job they are more passionate about, start a business, go part-time, or take a mini-retirement. A career is no longer primarily about saving for the future; it's about funding life today. This is the number that untethers identity and happiness from a specific salary or career track.

Achieving these milestones isn't about stopping; it's about having the power to choose. The freedom to design a life based on values, not financial necessity, is the true goal.

In the next post, the final part of this series, we'll put it all together and define the ultimate dream: the Passive Income goals, the FIRE number, and the 'Big Dream' fund.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog post is for educational and informational purposes only. I am an AFC® (Accredited Financial Counselor) Candidate, not a licensed financial advisor, tax professional, or attorney. The content herein is not intended to be a substitute for professional financial, investment, legal, or tax advice. Always seek the advice of a qualified professional with any questions you may have regarding your individual financial situation. The opinions expressed are my own and do not represent the views of my employer.