The 28 year old retiree

[Liberty]

I work when I want to work and don't when I don't want to. This is also an option, if people search it out.

 

That's basically what "retired" means in the context here. There are no rules about not working, the whole point is you aren't forced to, and when you do, it's better because it's voluntary and your lifestyle doesn't depend on it, reducing stress.

[Cigarbutt]

Early retirement is definitely not mainstream these days.

 

http://business.financialpost.com/personal-finance/nearly-half-of-canadians-would-face-financial-crunch-if-paycheque-delayed-by-even-a-week-survey-shows

 

My understanding is that the US situation is comparable.

 

A well known Benjamin has said: "If you know how to spend less than you get, you have the philosopher's stone."

 

Saving=revenue-expense. Simple but not easy.