> This is one reasons I got disillusioned with FIRE and the concept of early retirement.

I think it's totally reasonable to be disillusioned with the "retire early" part of FIRE, but the "financial independence"? That part is golden for everyone.

Being financially independent means you're not scared of being laid off. It means you can walk away from bad bosses or bad companies. It means you can try out a startup if your heart tells you it's the one, but the money they're offering is too far below market.

Of course, getting there through austerity isn't for everyone. I get that. But quite a lot of people think the juice is worth the squeeze.