The 25X Shortcut

Dividing by 0.04 is the same as multiplying by 25. So the fastest way to find your freedom number: take your annual expenses and multiply by 25. Spending $50,000/year? You need $1.25 million. Spending $30,000/year? Just $750,000.

Notice something crucial: your freedom number isn't based on income — it's based on spending. The less you need to live well, the faster you're free. Someone earning $200K with $150K in expenses has a harder path than someone earning $80K with $30K in expenses.