EP 84: Turning Corporate Life Into Skoolie Adventures: New Year Episode!
Have you ever wondered what it would be like to trade the 9-to-5 grind for a life on the road? This inspiring story dives into how one woman turned her corporate accounting career into a journey of self-discovery through tiny living. Learn about the COASTFI movement, the joys and challenges of minimalism, and how you, too, can take steps towards a more purpose-driven life.
What Is the COAST FIRE Movement?
The COAST FI movement (Coasting to Financial Independence) is a game-changer for anyone tired of working endlessly for a traditional retirement. Instead of waiting decades to start living, COAST FI encourages finding financial stability early and focusing on enjoying life along the way. It’s about living with purpose, balancing work, and pursuing your passions.
Think about it: Isn’t it better to live for today while planning for tomorrow? COAST FI makes that dream achievable, as Ashley Innes discovered.
Ashley’s Journey from Corporate Accounting to Tiny Living
Ashley’s story begins in the high-stress world of corporate accounting. Like many professionals, she felt unfulfilled despite financial security. The pandemic acted as a wake-up call, pushing her to rethink what truly mattered.
She embarked on a bold journey to build her own skoolie—a school bus transformed into a tiny home on wheels. Through hard work, trial, and error, Ashley not only created a home but also found a sense of freedom and purpose she’d never known. Her story is proof that even the most structured lives can embrace change.
Lessons Learned from Living Small
Living in a tiny space teaches profound lessons. Minimalism, for example, forces you to reassess what’s essential. Ashley discovered that by letting go of material possessions, she could focus more on experiences and connections.
It’s not just about decluttering—it’s about making room for what truly matters. For Ashley, that meant prioritizing happiness, simplicity, and self-discovery. Can you imagine the joy of waking up in a home you built with your own hands?
Balancing Financial Goals with Life Enjoyment
One of the toughest challenges Ashley faced was balancing her immediate desire for freedom with long-term financial security. While COASTFI offers a framework, it’s not always easy to prioritize short-term enjoyment over future stability.
Ashley’s journey reminds us that life isn’t a one-size-fits-all plan. Striking the right balance requires reflection, planning, and sometimes, a leap of faith. Would you take that leap?
The Role of Community in Unconventional Lifestyles
One of Ashley’s biggest takeaways was the importance of community. Whether it was online forums or local meetups, finding like-minded individuals made her transition smoother.
Support networks provide guidance, share resources, and remind us we’re not alone. For anyone considering a similar lifestyle, connecting with others can be a lifeline.
Taking Action Towards Your Dreams
Dreaming about change is one thing—taking action is another. Ashley’s advice? Start small. Research, plan, and set realistic goals. Whether it’s building a skoolie, adopting minimalism, or pursuing a new career, the first step is always the hardest.
Remember, big changes don’t happen overnight. But with perseverance and courage, they’re possible. What’s stopping you from starting today?
Conclusion
Ashley Innes’s story is a testament to the power of bold decisions. From corporate life to tiny living, her journey shows us that happiness often lies outside our comfort zones. Whether you’re drawn to COASTFI, minimalism, or a skoolie adventure, one thing is clear: living with purpose changes everything.
Quotes from the episode
“I was climbing a ladder I didn’t want to climb”
“Freedom’s not the ability to do whatever you want”
“Retiring isn’t the most fulfilling thing”
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