Over two decades ago, after graduating from university, Tanaka Kenichi began working for a technology company in Tokyo. By the age of 40, he had advanced to a management position, earning more than 80,000 USD annually. His demanding job, which stretched from morning until night and included troubleshooting calls on his days off, caused significant stress. Seeking freedom, Tanaka pursued the goal of FIRE (Financial Independence, Retire Early).

He tightened his spending habits to save and invest. By the time he was 43, his account balance had reached 800,000 USD. "The day I submitted my resignation, I believed I was a winner," he recounted.

For the first few months after retiring, Tanaka found life to be a dream. He enjoyed daytime movies and shopping, traveled without a fixed itinerary, and avoided crowded trains. Now, living alone in his Tokyo apartment with a passive income of 2,600 USD each month, Tanaka has no financial concerns.

Illustration: PIXTA

However, his daily routine now follows a fixed schedule: waking up, checking the news, monitoring stock prices, going to the gym, returning home, watching Netflix, and taking a nap. "When I was working, I always looked forward to the weekend. Now, every day feels like a holiday," the former manager stated. "Despite having money, I don't feel happy."

While employed, he had the drive to pursue promotions and tackle projects. Currently, he lacks a social role and external motivation. Former colleagues rarely reach out, and friends are occupied with work, leaving Tanaka to go many days without any interaction.

To create opportunities for conversation, he frequently visits cafes, bookstores, or convenience stores at specific times to strike up conversations with staff. Tanaka mentioned that some days he realizes he hasn't spoken to anyone, or an entire week passes without any meaningful interaction.

After five years in retirement, Tanaka concluded that money does not equate to happiness without social connection. He is now actively seeking a new purpose and social role.

"When I was younger, I thought money would bring freedom. But now I understand that freedom does not necessarily mean happiness," Tanaka stated.

Bao Nhien (According to The Gold Online)