Financial Independence: What It Means and How to Begin the Journey

For me, financial independence began with a story, one shared by a professor in university who told our class that she had purchased her first home at 25, and emphasised the power of compounding and early investing. Her lesson wasn’t just about finance; it was about freedom. That conversation shifted something in me and ultimately reshaped my path.

Financial independence doesn’t require thousands of dollars or perfect timing. It begins with a single step: opening an investing account and committing to invest what you can. Even $10, which could be your morning matcha.

That small decision is symbolic as you’re choosing to take ownership of your future. Whether it’s buying a share in a company you admire, selecting a diversified ETF, or exploring a mutual fund (I will cover these topics in more depth soon), the most important part is starting. Over time, consistency and education do the rest.

Personally, financial independence signifies the power to say no and the knowledge that you can stand on your own two feet. How I began was by opening an investment account and depositing a small amount and investing in an ETF that tracked the market. A step in the right direction is simply following this account and others like this to increase your knowledge.

This isn’t about being perfect with money, it’s about being intentional with it and following through to reach your goals. And that intention is what sets the foundation for independence.

This article reflects my personal perspective and is intended for educational purposes only. It is not financial advice. Please consult a licensed financial advisor before making any financial decisions.