No Pricks Allowed

Why I Quit the Fast Track to Early Retirement – (Ep. 24)


Listen Later

In this episode, Aaron shares a deeply personal story about walking away from what seemed like the “smart financial decision.” After landing a high-paying corporate job that promised early financial freedom, he quickly realized the hidden cost, long hours, constant travel, loneliness, and a marriage under strain. Despite the impressive paycheck, the life behind it felt empty. Aaron opens up about the moment he chose emotional well-being, relationships, and happiness over money and how that decision reshaped his philosophy on financial planning.

This episode challenges the idea that success means constant sacrifice and burnout. It’s a reflection on how our pursuit of wealth can blind us to what truly matters and a reminder that financial planning should be about more than numbers.

Key Topics Discussed:

  • The emotional toll of chasing financial success

  • Balancing career ambition with mental health and relationships

  • Why “the smart financial move” isn’t always the right life move

  • The myth of “paying your dues” to achieve happiness later

  • Redefining wealth: how money should support your happiness, not replace it

  • Building a financial plan that prioritizes fulfillment, not just returns

    Article: Why Chasing Bigger Numbers Can Make You Miserable

    Book a free meeting.

    Connect with Aaron Buchner: 

    • Weekly email: Your weekly jab
    • Website: Prick-Free
    • 613-876-9899
    • LinkedIn: Aaron Buchner
    • Facebook: Aaron – Cactus
    • Instagram: @aaron.b.cactus
    • Threads: aaron.b.cactus
    • ...more
      View all episodesView all episodes
      Download on the App Store

      No Pricks AllowedBy Aaron Buchner