Day 19
Imagine waking up every day with the freedom to choose how to spend your time. No deadlines, no meetings—just you and the moments that truly matter.
For many, this dream is what drives the pursuit of financial independence: escaping the 9-to-5 grind and gaining control over our days.
But here’s the thing—I don’t want to wait until I hit financial freedom to make the most of my time. Do you?
We all get the same 24 hours every day. Yet, too often, we let busyness and routines take over, forgetting to prioritize what truly matters. Thankfully, life has a way of reminding us—sometimes through unexpected people. For me, that reminder came from my neighbor, Larry.
Meet Larry
Larry is what I like to call a "good ole boy." A retired truck driver with a rough exterior but a heart of gold.
One sweltering summer afternoon, I was out mowing my yard with my loud, beat-up mower when Larry showed up on his pristine red zero-turn mower.
He pointed at his machine and shrugged as if to say, "Mind if I help?"
Trying to play it cool, I shrugged back as if to say, "Sure, if you’ve got nothing better to do."
Within minutes, he’d mowed my entire front yard while I was still struggling with the crape myrtles in the back.
When he pulled up beside me, he shouted over his engine, "Howdy! Just thought I’d give ya a hand if ya didn’t mind."
"Not at all, Larry. Not at all," I shouted back.
And just like that, he tipped his hat and headed home.
Larry’s Lesson
A few days later, I walked over to thank him again and asked why he decided to pitch in. His response floored me:
"Well," he said, "my son passed away last year. We used to ride motorcycles together, rebuild engines—he was my best friend. And when I see you playing with your kids in the backyard… well, there’s nothing I wouldn’t do for more time with him. If mowing your yard gives you more time with your kids? Then I’m happiest guy on the block."
His words hit me like bricks.
Redefining Wealth
Larry reminded me that true wealth isn’t about money—it’s about time and how we spend it.
Too often, we chase financial goals thinking they’ll buy us freedom later on. But what if we stopped waiting? What if we started prioritizing what matters most right now?
So let me ask you: If someone gave you an extra hour every week, how would you spend it? Would you play with your kids? Call an old friend? Do something that fills your soul?
Your Challenge
Here’s my challenge for you: carve out just one extra hour this week. Spend it doing something meaningful—whether it’s laughing with loved ones, pursuing a passion project, or simply watching the sunset without distractions.
Because at the end of the day, wealth isn’t about how much we earn—it’s about how well we live.
And while you’re at it… thank Larry.
Until next time, keep walking.
Jeremy ✌️