I had a very interesting path from military officer to financial independence. It's definitely not a get rich quick story. It's really a story of making more, spending less, and investing the difference like a boss. I maxed out retirement accounts as well investing wisely and consistently in brokerage accounts and, of course, real estate. Interestingly enough, I paid off my primary residence, and my first 20 investment properties were paid off 15 years into my military career. On one income.