Shutting Down For Now: Financial Samurai Is Taking A Break

Shutting Things Down For NowBack at my parents' home in Honolulu one afternoon, my father asked me, “Are you sure you're just consulting 25 hours a week? Because it sure seems like a full time job!

Of course I'm sure Dad,” I retorted. But before I knew it, the sun had already set. Another day in paradise, gone. I was working too intently on a client project to care about my niece who wanted to play at the beach or spend time with my mother who just wanted to catch up.

Time Accelerates

If you're not careful, the best days of your life will pass you by without allowing you to fully experience each moment. I'm almost 39 now, still young to a 60 year old, but almost over the hill to a 25 year old.

What about having a family, I often wonder. I'd be 60 years old when my future daughter turned 21. Would she think I'm a cool dad or a grumpy old fart who pushed her too far? Or what if I can't have a family, as one reader shares in her struggle to combat infertility? It's going to be OK, because I've always wanted to adopt.

It's been a great seven year run, but after spending so many hours every week writing content on Financial Samurai, I'm burnt out. It's just too hard to keep going with the constant pressure to write something value-added while also consulting for corporate clients and personal clients on the side. I'm not sure people realize how long it takes to write some of my posts. Give it a go yourself!

Besides having the courage to press publish three to four times a week, it's sometimes hard to read the criticism from commenters who haven't spent time getting to know me. Many just land on one of my articles from a Google search, drop a turd and leave. Every time I ask them to explain their stance or write a rebuttal post, they decline. Why bother criticizing if you aren't willing to write your own solution? Human nature.

Maybe I need to revamp my About page to deal with all the antagonists. Yeah, that's it. But will anybody really understand? No matter who you are, it's always hard to be called names or told you just got lucky when you're the only one awake at 4am working away.

I've received a flood of e-mails every day for years asking me for financial help. I try to respond to everybody, but sometimes I don't, and I feel guilty because of it. I don't want to be that uncompassionate person one reader said I was in a post about wanting financial independence badly enough. I want to help everyone who takes the time to reach out, but the scale of this site has made constant interaction unwieldy.

Saying Good-bye

After much soul searching, I've decided to wind down Financial Samurai. The expectations are just too great and I need to go on a long vacation. Maybe I'll go back to Hawaii to lie on the beach and enjoy the simplicities of life. I do love a good poke bowl. Or maybe I'll go to Paris and then to London to follow my favorite tennis players on their quest for major victories.

In 2016, I've finally achieved my $200k passive income goal which I set in 2012. I hope all of you have gained great financial progress as well during this time. There's no longer a need to try and make more money, or spend so many hours helping others as a financially independent person. Every grenade lobbed my way now only eviscerates rather than strengthens my motivation. It's time to be greedy with the time I have left.

To all the supporters who add amazing insights in the comments section, thank you! To all the readers who share Financial Samurai on their social sites or tell their friends to stop by, you're too kind. I've gained more from starting this blog than I could have ever imagined. Not a day goes by where I'm not thankful for having taken action that one fateful, financial Armageddon day back in 2009.

The things you do today may change your life for the better. And when it's all over, you'll gain satisfaction knowing that no matter what happens, you tried your very, very best.

Readers, what are some ways to combat burnout while still trying to do everything possible to succeed? If you were me, what would you do to keep on going? Is it easier to criticize than support? Why don't more people try themselves?

186 thoughts on “Shutting Down For Now: Financial Samurai Is Taking A Break”

  1. Dear Sam,

    I have truly enjoyed reading your posts. From an Asian perspective coming from Southeast Asia, the goals you have set would have wagered you a millionaire here due to differences in standard of living and currency exchange.

    In the words of a Street Fighter fan: “Go home and be a family man.”

  2. Todd Guthrie

    If you really do feel like shutting down and locking away the keyboard, might I humbly suggest you pass the torch on to one or more other individuals who you know and trust, who share similar values as you, so that the site can live on, even without your personal input?
    I’m sure there would be at least a few worthy candidates in your regular readership, if not in your personal life.
    If you do in fact decide to retire from the writer’s life, then rest assured your insightful, relevant, and unique contribution will certainly be missed!

  3. I was happy to see two more subsequent posts in my Outlook RSS folder after this one. I subscribe/read a few podcasts on finance that have really provided good information. This is one of them, along with Dave Ramsey and Suze Orman. The different perspectives make you think and their different approaches provide a wealth of solid information. I also like the FinSamurai non-financial related posts and the author’s response/challenges to commenters. Just wanted to take time and say I appreciate the content from your/FamSamurai site.

  4. Now that it’s confirmed as an April Fools joke, let me provide my advice. (Love the blog btw, would have been devastated if it was shutting down)

    Never shut down the Financial Samurai! This is a brand you are building. You need to find a number 2 (or three) that can learn the trade from you, so that they can take over the FS brand when you do decide that enough is enough. That #2 can start earning passive income on their content, but will certainly get a big boost from your existing library that will continue to drive passive income to you. In fact if you are looking for a #2 let me know! (c;

  5. We wish you every happiness. My family and I are truly grateful for everything that you have done. Thank heavens for April Fools!

  6. All I can say is that it has been a great ride following you and awaiting your next blog post every few days.

    I wish you luck wherever this next phase of life takes you.

  7. Dan Goodman

    Assuming it is not a joke, please leave the archives up. Just discovered the blog and doing my best to catch up. Enjoy the break if it is for real.

  8. Say it ain’t so! Long time reader here. I love reading your posts and always enjoy the strong dose of reality with quirky humor that only you can bring. I really do hope this was/is an April Fools joke. But if not, it is a break well deserved.

  9. Please say this is a joke! This is my goto blog. I think taking some time off is healthy, but please return. Maybe make yourself less accessible- don’t respond to Twitter posts and turn off the comments section for a while. But with the ups and downs of 2016 sure to come up in this crazy market we really need you!

  10. Did I miss a post on your 2000k goal? When and how you didn’t share! Sam like me you work to much. Take some time to regroup but don’t give up completely. THREE quality articles a week! Wow!! Wish I could write with such clarity! When I check my mail I look for your posts first. You have written and shared a wealth of information and I think of you as my personal financial guru. Hope to see a post soon. If not the best to you and yours.

  11. Congratz on reaching your goal of $200,000 in passive income. MISSION ACCOMPLISHED!

    You deserve a nice long break from it all. There is enough informative posts on this site to help people who seek it. Come back in 6 months or so refreshed!

    In the meantime, perhaps you can have a few guest writers to offer their ideas towards FI as well?

    Thanks for all you’ve done.

  12. Lu from Brooklyn

    Thank you for your hard work and time devoted to make all of us learn to be disciplined with our finance. I discovered this site half a year ago and always happy to read your articles when they show up in my inbox. Enjoy your time with family and friend.

  13. If it’s real, sorry to see you go. Yours and WCI are the only sites I read consistently. I didn’t have you pegged as sensitive to bullying. Sorry I never sent positivity your way. Enjoy your time off. Renew. Refresh. Refocus. Hope you come back better for some time off. You definitely won’t regret putting family first. Best wishes!

  14. Man either way all the best! Not sure if this is an April fools or if it’s pure coincidence however it’s been a pleasure reading :)

    Cheers & looking forward to seeing you back one day soon

  15. Sam,

    I am not sure if the extended break will be part of the April Fools joke or not. But it is a good post to get us thinking.

    Honestly I don’t think the critics bother you. It help add to the readership and the publicity, and you know that by writing controversial posts. And you love writing too much and have too much intrinsic motivation to quit.

    Enjoy Hawaii though.

    Thanks for adding value to so many other people. It is most appreciated.

    -Mike

  16. I’m going to assume this is all legit because he didn’t scream “April Fool’s!!!!!!!” at the end.

    I can attest that it takes a long time to create a blog post. And while I don’t have anywhere near the demand that Sam has, there’s still a lot of effort that goes into making one. The research, the time spent in front of a blank page with Writer’s Block, all the effort to find the right photos, proofreading, editing, so on and so forth.

    But you’re absolutely right, Sam, in that you don’t want the blog to consume your life. It shouldn’t be about the money. It should be about doing what you love, and if it’s burning you out then it’s time to take a step back from things. You’ve achieved financial freedom already; you can literally do whatever you want.

    But as for everyone’s comments getting to you, you’ve gotta heed your own advice from the post you made about being a professional blogger and develop/maintain thick skin. Pissing people off means that your writing is well out there. I wish someone would spread my blog posts around the Internet with the intent of showing the world how much of an A-hole I apparently am, only for the controversy to drive more traffic to my blog. Let the naysayers come! The naysayers mean that you’ve made it, Sam. Remember that.

    Thank you for the time and effort you put into Financial Samurai and into helping others. Hopefully we’ll see you back in the mix soon.

    Sincerely,
    ARB–Angry Retail Banker

  17. David Devries

    Thank you for all you’ve done here Sam.
    I have been faithfully reading all your posts and while we don’t agree on every point, I have come to highly appreciate your genuine, forthright and well-considered comments. Your blog has consistently offered me a tranquil and thoughtful contrast from the 70+ hrs/week daily grind in Silicon Valley.

    If I can do you any good turn at any time, do let me know.
    Dave in San Jose

  18. Sam!
    I think you can tell from all the comments that people love what you write.
    If the vacation is what you need, take the time you need and enjoy!
    If it was an April’s fools, it was a very nicely packaged one :) and looking forward to reading you soon.

    Nick

  19. Sam I am like one of many on this post that have never posted before, but have quietly soaked up countless bits of information, insight, and humor, and balance over the past couple of years. Your writing has been entertaining, your topics original yet relevant, and your attitude and work ethic as inspiring as no other. If this really is it I will truly miss both you and EVERYTHING you bring to the table with this. To even call it a blog is unfair, it is a Financial BIBLE. I am one of those cliche “high student loan/low net worth” young persons that everyone always reads about, but you have still inspired me that it is NEVER too late to change your money mindset and do whatever it takes to become more financially fit. You gave me hope when I was had previously resigned myself to live a life of debt and frivolousness.

    Thank you for being you and everything you have done for the FS community. I feel like even though most of us don’t know each other, and we come from so many diverse backgrounds and situations (including financial), that this site brings us together as a family. You will be sorely missed around here.

  20. A better April Fool’s joke would’ve been if you followed up on your last post and announced that your blog has received a can’t refuse unsolicited offer for an ungodly amount of money from a Chinese firm, maybe the same one that tried to buy Starwood hotels.

    In the 0.00001% chance this post is serious, I’ve enjoyed reading your blog.

  21. Testing to see how quickly this comment gets approved. That will let me know if you’ve truly retired.

  22. I am so wishing that this is an April fool’s joke.

    I have been a regular reader and have enjoyed reading your blogs for over a year now. Many of the posts are very rigorous and the effort you put into producing them is quite apparent.

    I have been very motivated by your goals and have started to model my financial goals along similar lines. I am just getting started on the passive income journey. There are so many uncertainties on the way but your blog provides a guide post. It is like a companion which provides motivation and validation. If there was any doubt in your mind about the impact you are having, please consider this. You are a household name in my family and everyone understands who is being refereed to when I say “Sam says..”

    But if you are truly leaving, we are grateful for what you have shared so passionately for so many years.

  23. I love your posts and look forward to reading all of them. I understand that you need to prioritize what to do with your life, and I don’t ask you to stay with us, if it’s time to spend your time on other things, even thought I’d like to. instead I want to thank you and wish you well.
    Your posts have changed my life and my future. When I first started reading your posts, I did not see so many things. Now I’ve changed the way I take care of my finances.
    I have enjoyed the financial insights you have posted about, but I have also enjoyed your personal stories.
    I live in the Bay area too, and sometimes on waking at around 6:30 am, I’ve seen my phone with a notification saying there is a new post from Financial Samurai, and I think about when you must have been working on it. I have looked forward to reading every single one of your posts.
    Thank you for all the time you have spent being our Financial Samurai.
    Wish you all the best.

  24. We live, we die, that’s a certain. If you have more than 1k listening to you then you need to keep writing. I know this website has help d many so cowboy up. Take a cue from other bloggers and just repost old articles with an update or commentary on the article.

  25. I was so sad to read this but now have hope that it’s an April Fools joke!??!
    In any case, there are HATERS everywhere, can’t let them get you down!

  26. PatientWealthBuilder

    hey Sam – me too! LOL actually I just started mine this year…. good idea on the post. this is going to top out your most popular blog post list on comments… have a good weekend.

  27. come on Sam, we all know this is just a plan to get another article with 1,000,000,000,000+ reads. Comment count is already pretty high, seems to be working.

    april F-ing fools

  28. Considering that Sam is still approving these messages as they usually need moderator approval should tell you he’s extra active today… seems somewhat contradictory to spending less time on a site… but hey it’s April Fools! I guess I feel the need to out do your prank… seems like a good day to break up with my girlfriend for my prank! Wonder how she’ll react when I say just kidding AF!

  29. It’s an april fool and Sam has not yet reached 200,000 /year. Just by leaving the website as it is it would bring a passive income and Sam is not one to throw it away. The consulting job is one thing, the website another one much easier to maintain with just 1 post a month like moneymustache does. But this post is also a valuable experience to him as he is reading the reactions…

  30. Sam,

    Whatever you decide, and whatever happens… I wish to say Thank You for your efforts these years.

    I’ve enjoyed reading what you wrote, even if I didn’t always agree.

    Best wishes and be well.

    An East Bay guy

  31. Thank you!!! You have helped so many of us, and you will be missed. Take good care of yourself! You took good care of us!

  32. Long time reader and I never comment until now.

    hopefully this is just April fool…..

    just so you know….I have learned lot from you.

  33. Sam,

    Whether it’s an April Fool’s joke or not, thank you so much for your blog-
    over the past 2 years, your posts have inspired me to reach further financially than I otherwise would have:
    1) Taken out a much bigger mortgage (over $800K) than I otherwise would have to get our dream home, and immediately refinanced to get down to 3.25%
    2) Have taken 2 additional side jobs to both pay down said mortgage faster and ensure that we can maximize our savings
    3) Have negotiated more aggressively with potential employers to maximize income and ensure that my worth to those organizations is recognized.

    I don’t think I would have seen the rationale for the above actions without your posts- I continue to plan as much as I can for my family’s financial future and security, and have you to thank for that attitude.
    I do hope you can continue to post, as I’m sure there is plenty more for those of us who have gone through life blissfully unaware of how unprepared we’ve been for our financial futures.

  34. David Sweetnam

    Phew, almost had a heart attack. I found your blog a bit late, it’s one of the few I regularly follow now. Look forward to your post after your vacation ;)

  35. Oh wait today is April Fools?? I take back everything I said earlier hahah. Well I don’t take it back, but if this is a joke you got me good.

  36. Hi Sam,

    I’ve never left a comment before but I wanted to leave one now to say thank you for all of the time and effort you put into Financial Samurai.

    I’ve been following your blog for awhile now, and I truly appreciate not only the financial advice that you give, but your willingness to be open about your opinions and share about your own personal experiences, both good and bad.

    Particularly when it comes to financial advice, a lot of blogs operate in very theoretical terms, but that personal connection you had with everything you said really made things resonate.

    I wish you the best of luck in your future endeavors and hope you know that for every one internet troll out there making a rude comment there are way more people like myself who truly appreciate everything you’ve shared and want to thank you for that.

  37. Sam,
    Hope is not true – I so much enjoy your blogging, all the knowledge and advice you provide is amazing. Learning always something new, looking forward to reading more………get some rest but DO come back!

  38. Very dissappointed to see you leave. I started reading your articles 6 mo ago and found it be very very good. I hope you keep the website up and the archive articles and blog are avialable for us to read over and get great advise from. Thank you,

  39. Happy April Fools day ! Did anyone notice that Sam has not responded to a single comment so far which is very unlike him. :)

  40. Wow, such a serious April Fools joke!

    But really glad you got to the 200k passive income goal! Everyone should be striving to achieve high levels of passive income.

  41. I’m assuming this is an April Fool post. I can’t see you shutting down for the reasons you mention. You love writing and you don’t sleep much anyway. What would you do with all the extra time?

  42. Sam,

    Thanks for the great insight you have provided throughout the years. I have read most of your posts and many more than once. Congratulations on reaching your passive income goal now go and enjoy the next chapter of your life.

    Thank you.

  43. OMG….! I wish this is a April Fool’s joke.
    Studying from your posts has been one of my routine habit. It is so generous of you to share your knowledge, experience and insight with us. I am so grateful. Sam, thank you.
    But I understand your feelings, and wish you all the best! ^^

  44. Too funny. I am waiting for the “April Fools” comment from Sam. While I believe the negative comments do in fact bother Sam, some more than others. Most just roll off his back based on his counter response, others dig a little deeper (Like Mrs. Whipple). There is no way he publishes a true good bye on 4/1. Sam is way too careful a planner to let that just be a coincidence. Now remember Sam you have to say “April Fools” today for it to count, other wise ??

  45. LOL, Sam would never leave the value of his blog to rot on the vine–especially considering it’s a key part of the engine driving his book sales. If he shut it down I’m sure he’d find a new home for our page impressions and clickthroughs well in advance.

  46. Crystal Ball

    Dude! You’re so old. :-) Joke or not, I hear a challenge in this post that resonates with me: Can you build both a big net worth and a rich life?

    I see people getting financially rich all the time in the technology world I’ve been in for 20 yrs, but generally, the richer they’re getting, the narrower their lives are. I’m not saying they aren’t happy, I’m saying they cheat themselves with a narrow definition of happiness. The diversity and size of their joy portfolio has an inverse relationship with the hours they work. I remember the first time I heard a senior manager who was about to retire tell me he was afraid to stop working. Work got him up, structured his day, gave him satisfaction, power, and friends, and he didn’t know what he’d do on the first morning he woke up with no job ahead of him. I was about to laugh, but stopped when I saw genuine fear in his eyes, and right then, I vowed I’d never be that guy.

    That vow means I’ve turned down promotions and job offers and have delayed wealth accumulation. But, I’m on plan for my FI timeline AND my youngest daughter, now 21, always thought I worked less than any other successful parent when she was growing up. I eventually told her I arranged my schedule to be around frequently when she was around, like after school when she was a teenager and just wanted to talk sometimes (ok, rarely, but hey, I was there), and she is now starting to appreciate what that meant for our relationship. I have dinner with my wife every night, race weekly on a sailing team, get to 630am yoga class 3X a week, am working on a my running form, rock climb a couple times a week, get to events with friends, read, write, am learning Japanese (way behind on that goal) etc. I refuse to give that stuff up to make money faster.

    And then he died.

    1. Lol. I hope so too… If it is (and I really hope it is, I love reading these articles) he got us good.

  47. Romeo Jeremiah

    Enjoy your time my friend!

    P.S.

    In regards to this statement:
    “What about having a family, I often wonder. I’d be 60 years old when my future daughter turned 21. Would she think I’m a cool dad or a grumpy old fart who pushed her too far?”

    I’m 35 and have a 14 year old who told me yesterday that I’m “too professional” and “too serious” to be cool. Hell, I’m the coolest Daddio I know. lol. In other words, no kid ever thinks that their parents are cool unless those parents are more friends than parental guidance.

  48. Thanks Sam, hope you don’t mind I stay subscribed to your blog and go back and reread your posts.

  49. Thank you, thank you, thank you very much for all your fantastic, insightful and most interesting articles. I have learned so much from you. Forget the naysayers and their comments
    and remember the many, many people that like and appreciate you and your words.
    Good luck on the next leg of your life’s journey. Wishing you much peace, joy and happiness.

  50. nicoleandmaggie

    You have the weirdest sense of humor (assuming this is an 4/1 joke, if not then you’ve had an odd personality change).

  51. I get the feeling that the shutting down is for real, not an April Fools’ Day joke. Can you change your mind?? Seriously. I love Financial Samurai. You’ve put yourself out there and written great, personal essays, bled a little bit and taught me about eye-opening financial issues. Thank you, Sam, and enjoy. And come back when you feel like it!

  52. I sure enjoy your blog! I avoid burnout by skiing/mountain biking every weekend. It helps keep life fun even in the midst of work grind. Maybe you could just post every so often, when the feeling strikes, without the pressure of providing regular content? Enjoy time on the beach, or in Europe, or wherever you decide to go.

  53. I’m hoping too that this is an April fools joke, as this has become my favorite site by far about finance strategies, etc…hope you’re back at it asap Sam.

  54. WHAT? I just found this site a few short months ago, haven’t even caught up yet!

    It would be sad from my own selfish standpoint.

    But I can definitely understand, and a well deserved break. I think even if it’s an AF thing, it brings up some valid points.

    Either way, appreciate the amazing insight!

  55. April Fools or not, I look forward to reading your blog and your insights. Your words have been full of motivation. Travel does provide clarity and food for the soul. Get out there and experience the world. Liven up your blog with pictures and financial information from other countries.

  56. You’ve earned yourself a break. I have truly appreciated your inspiring posts and transparency into your own life and finances. If this is true, I wish you happiness in your life.

  57. From what I know about Sam, he likes to “test out” his ideas on his blog posts before he makes an actual big decision. If this was really the case he would have had articles talking about “how to keep from getting burnt out”, or “why blogging eats up all your time”, or a graph of “work/vacation happiness correlations” and then finally he would have asked his readers “should I take a break from blogging” and had a poll. Sam likes to make decisions very slowly and they are well researched and thought out. You can usually see his blog posts are many times just research leading up to a major decision.

  58. Sam,
    I really hope this a AprilFools Joke like other have suggested. I really enjoy reading the blog and would miss it if you did shut down.

    Congratulations on reaching 200K passive income.

  59. Oh gosh I can’t believe it! This is probably on the 2nd time I’ve replied to en entry on your blog- but I’ve been following you for quite a while. Your blog has become a part of my regular reading. While there are rare occasions where I may not agree with something you write, I always enjoy reading them! At the very least they are a regular reminder to me to mind my finances. At the best your posts can be thought provoking and often give me insight to something I didn’t know anything about. I get needing to “smell the roses” though. I quit my corporate job about a year and a half ago (yes reading your blog helped me make that decision!), and had a “plan” with how I would make a smaller salary to stay alive. Well, for a year and a half I made not a single penny. But I did get to smell a lot of roses in terms of traveling, visiting friends and trying new things. Now, newly refreshed, I have a much better sense of what I want to do with my precious time. I just got certification to teach kids how to swim ($10/ hour woohoo haha) and am working on a TEFL certificate. I have discovered I like working one on one with people and am (volunteer) tutoring a 4th grader for whom English is his second language, and he has a learning disability as well. I love working with him! I never would have discovered any of this had I followed my original “post corporate America plan” I fully support you to stretch your wings, visit family and friends, do some of those bucket list items and enjoy your life! I hope you are not leaving because of negative people. My experience is that people tend to feel the need to express themselves when something pisses them off more then when it makes them happy. I bet for every negative comment you get there are 100 people who think positively, but just didn’t take the time to write! My hope is that you come back, keep the blog alive with maybe a less aggressive schedule. But it’s your life! You get to decide how to live it. Thank you for all you have taught me and best wishes to you. Lora

  60. NOOOOOOO! Please don’t go. I love this site more than any other personal finance blog on the planet. I hope that you are joking!

  61. Sam,

    I hope this is an April Fool’s joke.

    I value your posts and I am a lot smarter with my finances because of you. Either way this turns out, I want to say thank you very much and I wish you the best in your future endeavors.

  62. Hoping this is an April Fool’s joke but if not, I hope you leave this site up at least as it is and thanks for all your (free) education. Maybe take a 6-12 month break and come back?

  63. I just discovered your blog and I absolutely love it! I hope you are not taking the site down, just not adding more to it. I’m sorry people leave negative comments. I completely understand being burned out, so I hope you are able to get the well deserved r&r. Thanks for all the work you did on this blog.

  64. Sam,

    Please go and take a well deserved break. However, please come back soon.
    You’ve helped me a lot personally and I’m sure countless others.

    If you truly are leaving, then thanks and best of luck!

  65. Awesome April Fools gag. Having just started a blog, I am thriving off the negativity, and I guess you probably do too.

  66. Ha! I got fooled. I was reading and reading. I was like “not another Dividendmantra.com”, the new owner is posting article on “how to trade penny stocks”. How the heck are you going from solid dividend growth stocks into penny stock?

    Anyhow, glad it’s just an April’s Fool joke, because I think even if you sell the site, I think you’d have had a way better plan.

    I think the $200K/year in passive income is true, the site is doing great!! Keep it up, bro!

  67. I understand you but after time I hope you will come back and continue writing. As for the turds lol, they won’t open their minds regardless of all the educational information out there and that’s sad. I am a member of a financial forum with very intelligent, financially successful people who talk among each other and the turdsyou speak of visit there too.

    If I listened to naysayers when I first started my business I’d still be struggling and hopeless but thank god I ignored the naysayers. There are so many of us who enjoy your blog. I found your site about 6 months ago and enjoyed many, many nights into the AM reading everything your articles and even re-read many of them, your efforts are not wasted. Thank you

  68. Oh I was so sad when I read the post. Then I saw the date referenced by MrB. I do hope this is not the end Sam. Yours is one of the voices that I check out each day. I used to enjoy JD Roth when he owned Get Rich Slowly. Then he sold his site. Your communication skills are a gift!

  69. I will take the bait on this one…

    My father had my youngest sister at 43 (I have 4 sisters, 5 kids total for pops at ages 29, 31, 39, 41, and 43), which will put him at 65 by the time she finishes college. I don’t think a day goes by that he wishes she wasn’t around.

    From what I have learned, kids are the best thing that can happen to a person. I’m excited for the day I have them.

  70. AGH!!! Bad news for my weekly reading, but great news for you. Congratulations on hitting your $200k of passive and best of luck in your most recent retirement.

  71. Of course, you need to do what’s best for you. You have worked very hard and contributed a great deal to those of us who want a life of freedom and independence.

    I’m a fairly new reader (maybe 4 months or so?) and I read every word of each post. I may not always agree with everything you write, but even with my short stint here, I know that your intent is always to help people the best way that you know how.

    If you are super burnt and need down time – go for it. If you shutting down is due more to hater fatigue, that would be a terrible shame. You can only help people who want to be helped. There are always going to be haters. I actually think the proportion of whiny people goes up in concert with the success level of the writer.

    Either way – I wish you the very best. You have served us well and we’re very, very grateful :)

  72. Happy April fools! But nooooo… Pls don’t shut down. I really enjoy reading your blog and would hate for it to be shut down. As for the haters and trolls, just ignore them and delete their comments without even reading them.

  73. I am just hoping it’s an April fool’s joke. But if not, “Have a great life Sam” (from Cheers)

    -Naresh

  74. Relax guys… this is an April Fool’s Joke. Sam loves writing/expressing himself too much to ever shut it down. It’s a blog. He can scale up (write more/hire ghost writers) or scale down (write less, advertise less) anytime he wants. There would be no reason to shut down. Some blogs exist where writers only publish 1-2 articles/month.

    1. I agree, but it still seems a bit in poor taste not to put “April Fools” at the bottom somewhere.

  75. Ive enjoyed your blog, so thank you. Criticism is just part of the internet. Read (or better yet, dont) read the comments section on any mews story or espn article to get a taste of the venom of the internet. But this isnt news though.
    To be fair, some of the criticism is valid. Some of your posts or views come off as a bit out of touch as they really are written toward the financial crowd. Some of your goals and strategies are not super achievable for married people with kids etc.
    The spirit of your messages can be applicable though: work hard, work extra, hustle.
    Anyway, I think burnout is something many bloggers face. Pull back tour output, step back, whatever. You have no obligations. You made a popular and successful blog. They cant go on forever. Thanks for the great content. Good luck.

    1. PatientWealthBuilder

      can you be more clear about what goals and strategies are out of touch? that doesn’t make sense. because someone is in a different situation doesn’t mean they are out of touch. a great thing about this blog is the transparency. everything is abundantly clear and transparent. of course not all of us can work in investment banking etc. but that doesn’t mean he is out of touch. agree though – the spirit of the messages are applicable. we can still learn from those who come from different backgrounds and contexts.

  76. This is my first time writing to you and just felt I had to respond to your entry.

    People can be assholes. It’s that simple. As I continue on my trek through life I find that there are more dumb people than smart people on this planet. People who like to tear others down. People who blame others for their own mistakes. People who feel that “life” is out to get them as if it’s some evil phantom spreading bad juju where ever they go. And that’s bullshit. People don’t realize how hard it is to build something yet so easy to tear it down — whether it be a building, a career, your finances or someone’s reputation. It’s easy to voice your hate in a safe, anonymous fashion when you’re not physical facing the person you’re badgering online.

    There will always be haters and you have to be vigilant in ignoring them. I know that’s tough since you built this community with varied opinions. Be it due to jealousy, differences in ideology or just plan idiocy, it’s important to know you have the power to either accept their truth as your own or let their “truth” fall flat as you progress with your life and outreach.

    I honestly think you need a break. A vacation. Get your mind clear, see what’s going on in the world with your own eyes and not the media’s. Recharge your batteries. Learn somthing new. When you’re ready and feel you have something constructive and helpful to contribute, then suprise us with a new blog entry. You’re certainly under no obligation to continue but I’d prefer if you did. And start simply. One blog entry every two weeks. Then every week. Keep it at a pace that’s comfortable to you and your hectic schedule.

    That’s all I got. Take care and good luck!

  77. Has to be AF…I hope? If not, I will really miss your blog Sam. I look forward to reading each and every article/post. Please tell us it ain’t so!

  78. We will miss you-I return to your content frequently to be encouraged that I am going in the right direction….hope the articles will still be available!! Stealth wealth is not commonly taught but is very important to avoid life style changes as you have better income!!

  79. robert clayton

    If you need a break I totally understand, but I really enjoy your blog!! Keep writing, and hope this is only a April fools joke!!

  80. Mark Hilton

    Also hoping that this is a April Fool’s Joke. I truly appreciate the content and thinking that goes into this blog!

  81. I’ve enjoyed every post and have been challenged to change my perspectives on so many issues. Thank you.

  82. Love this blog. Appreciate you. Read every post.

    Crossing my fingers I’m no fool.

    For me, I sabbath every Saturday from phones/email and projects (except those honey-dos) for 24 hours. Once a quarter I’m off to the cabin or beach somewhere for a few days to refocus and plan.

    Enjoy some time off and come stay in my place in San Diego :)

  83. Sam this better be an April Fools Joke! If not- you really have given me good perspectives and I appreciate the content you have pumped out.

  84. Sam,
    Two years ago, I discovered your site via RB40. I enjoy reading the different topics and comments.

    Your passive income post was the first one I read and it blew me away. At such a young age, you were able to generate 150K from many sources. Congrats now that you are generating 200K of passive income!

    Back then I wanted to know what make you tick and what were your goals. I recalled that you wanted to buy a place in Hawaii and spend time with your family.

    Through the years, you purchased more propeties and took a consulting job. I understood that you used the money from the consulting job to pay off one of your mortgages. I was then baffled when you purchased that 1mill home in SF with that amazing sunset. You spent the time and energy to make your primary home beautiful but I think your heart is in Hawaii.

    I guess that your NW is north of 10 mill. I always wonder why you are so driven and need to accumulate so much wealth beyond what you need to be happy. I wonder when you would get off the hamster wheel and plan your end game to simplify your life.

    I thought you went over the top when you drove for Uber. It was an interesting read but why subject yourself to such stress when you did not need to?

    Whether or not this post is an April fools joke, I support your decision to simplify and you can:
    – sell your propeties in SF and your vacation home or just keep one for rental income.
    – buy a place near your parents in Hawaii.
    – start a family. You ain’t getting any younger.
    – write a post every 2-4 weeks.
    – have guest writers.
    – write a couple of e-books on the beach if you want.
    – kick back, chill and enjoy the ride. You have EARNED IT!!

    AJ

  85. Aliyyah @RichAndHappyBlog

    Not sure if this is an April Fool’s joke or not. If it’s not, I wish you all the best on your journey to wind down. You’ve inspired me to reach for financial independence sooner than later. I am actively working on creating passive income. Thank you for all your insightful and informative posts!

  86. First off, thanks for everything Sam. I’ve read every word you’ve written over the last five years and am better off financially because of it.

    I’m sure you’ve thought long and hard about this, but maybe there’s a middle ground rather than the all or nothing approach with this blog. For example, closing the comments section, having an auto reply that you won’t respond to emails, and only posting one article every week or two?

  87. I echo the sentiments that this is only an April Fools joke. I have had so much value derived from this blog. Not only Sam’s terrific posts, but the commenters as well.

    If this is the end, then I would like to congratulate Sam on a job well done. He made a difference in many people’s lives. Thank you.

  88. It’s been a pleasure reading your articles and I hope you come back and write more soon. As a teenager, you have inspired me to strive for financial freedom sooner, rather than later.

  89. Thank you for your awesome blog, and insight. I am always inspired and motivated coming here. I hope you get fully charged and come back to share more of your stories and insight down the road. Health comes first before anything else. Enjoy your journey!!

  90. Sam – if this is not an April Fools day joke then, it’s a good idea to take a break and see how you feel in a few weeks/month. A hustler like you needs constant challenges…best wishes…if this is a joke, I expect to see your articles in my inbox next week.

    Sipoy

  91. Larry Green

    I’m hoping that this is an April Fools joke. I just found your blog recently and was looking forward to having this in my daily reading list.

  92. You have been and will continue to be a source of inspiration for me. Choosing to savor life after so much hard work is equally inspiring.

    Praying this is an April Fool’s joke especially since you are a wellspring of knowledge, experience, and inspiration.

    Regardless, thank you for what you have done for those of us building financial independence through passive income streams.

    Best regards,

    A stay at home mom living in Silicon Valley

  93. Preston @TheDrunkMillionaire

    Say it ain’t so! If this is not an April Fool’s joke, congrats on such a great run and reaching your goals. Drink one on me! ;)

  94. Sam, a very appropriate April Fools. You are riding high, living the life you’ve engineered so thoughtfully. Very nice post. Actually had me for a few seconds!

  95. Hoping this is a prank, but that’s selfish.

    I really hope you are happy with your decision, and I’ll deal.

    Enjoy some time off!

  96. I forgot, this could be an April Fool’s. I just signed up recently and love reading all the blog posts, as others have said this is one of the blogs I truly enjoy reading. The advice isn’t just good, the writing is very entertaining as well. But if it’s true, there’s nothing wrong with hanging it up for a break either. Enjoy the time away

  97. will you be leaving the website up? it has good reference material and i really don’t feel like having to save all the articles one at a time before you take it down

  98. Thank you for the education, motivation, perspective and alternate strategies. Truly enjoyed reading all your posts. Will miss it. Best of luck Sam in all your future endeavors what ever those may be, I am sure you will rock it all!

    (Hopefully April fools?)

  99. Definitely one of my favorite blogs & one that I will surely miss! Sam, you have amazing insights & an unique perspective at looking at things. Taking time out for yourself is key to enjoying life, and I wish you all the best. You can always plug back in at anytime :)

  100. Hi Samurai,

    Its great reading the blog though I am from a far away land from US, most of the concepts made sense.. Have a nice vacation though I will sure miss your insights on how to lead a great life..

    P

  101. Getting To One Million

    If this is true I want to thank you for all the great advice. You shouldn’t work too hard if you don’t need to. I don’t have as much money saved as you do but if anyone needs some advice on living in a big city on half their income please see my blog.

  102. Please let this be a joke. You are one of the few voices of reason, a success that is humble and willing to share. There is so much crap out there that the rare gem gets lost. My suggestion…turn off comments and leave no way for trolls to contact you. Yes, that means you can’t respond to the good ones, but your message would still be heard and appreciated by the ones that count.

  103. I started reading financial blogs seven or eight years ago. And your blog is the only one left standing that I read regularly. Good luck in your future endeavors.
    I’m still hoping to be like you when I grow up.

  104. I would like to echo the sentiment here and say that if this isn’t some sort of joke you will be sorely missed! I found your blog about six months ago and it really has changed the way I view finances. You’ve helped me develop a greater respect for money management and the power that it has over personal finances.

    Thank you for all your hard work and know that you have made a difference in many people’s lives.

    Best Wishes to you Sam!

  105. Perhaps you care too much? In this post you describe a man who cares deeply, so much so that it seems to consume him.

    Compassion fatigue is real. I’ve experienced it– too many broken-hearted people who love their animals, and too many euthanasias, too soon.

    Three years ago, I took a step back (and a full year off), to decide if I wanted to continue to be a vet. I did nothing but recover– traveled Europe and Asia, took a sublet in Paris and went to cooking school, studied art, and wrote. Reams of paper. I came back, having decided that I’d missed practice so much, but, with a very different view: I can’t save them all, but for the ones I can help, I’ll do my very best, and make a difference. I still love it, but veterinary medicine is no longer my sole passion, or my identity.

    Work will always be there, and you’ll always be driven to achieve. You can drop it, change it, and pick it up again any time. Take care of yourself and the ones you love first, and then you’ll have the energy and strength to help anyone else, in any way you choose. Without your physical and emotional health, you’ll be miserable and unable to do the things you truly want to do.

    You still have time, but as you wrote, time is finite. Perhaps now IS the time to rest, reconsider, and re-balance?

    Most of all, many thanks, Sam, for everything. You’ve helped me so much.

  106. Perhaps you care too much? In this post you describe a man who cares deeply, so much so that it seems to consume him.

    Compassion fatigue is real. I’ve experienced it– too many broken-hearted people who love their animals, and too many euthanasias, too soon.

    Three years ago, I took a step back (and a full year off), to decide if I wanted to continue to be a vet. I did nothing but recover– traveled Europe and Asia, took a sublet in Paris and went to cooking school, studied art, and wrote. Reams of paper. I came back, having decided that I’d missed practice so much, but, with a very different view: I can’t save them all, but for the ones I can help, I’ll do my very best, and make a difference. I still love it, but veterinary medicine is no longer my sole passion, or my identity.

    Work will always be there, and you’ll always be driven to achieve. You can drop it, change it, and pick it up again any time. Take care of yourself and the ones you love first, and then you’ll have the energy and strength to help anyone else, in any way you choose. Without your physical and emotional health, you’ll be miserable and unable to do the things you truly want to do.

    You still have time, but as you wrote, time is finite. Perhaps now IS the time to rest, reconsider, and re-balance?

    Most of all, many thanks, Sam, for everything. You’ve helped me so much.

  107. Oh no…
    One of my favourite blogs. Thanks for all the quality content and all your hard efforts. I sincerely hope you change your mind and return.

    All the best, Sam!

  108. Wow, I can’t believe it! You had me worried for a minute and now I realize it must be an April fool’s joke – you got me!

    I am looking forward, optimistically, to reading future posts!

  109. Like everyone else, I hope this is a April Fools Joke. I’ve been reading your insightful, yet non conventional wisdom since 2012 and love every minute of it. You will be missed.

  110. You set up a fantastic site. You tell people what they need to do not what they want to hear in order to achieve financial independence.

  111. I hope this is some sort of April fools thing. You have one of the best blogs out there IMHO and I look forward to each and every one of your posts.

    If this is true, you made your goal and you are going to walk a way, well then thanks for all the hard work, thoughtful insight and enjoy that beach.

  112. Financial Slacker

    I have worked from home in some form or fashion for going on 10 years. So even when I go somewhere for vacation, I tend to continue working. But that’s ok. Simply being away from the daily demands in my normal location is enough.

    But for me to really unwind, there is nothing better than the ocean to revive and help with burnout. There’s something about salt water and sand that changes my perspective.

    Also, being around family helps you appreciate what’s important.

    Throw in some good home-cooked food and a little alcohol and it’s the perfect receipe for relaxation.

  113. You love to write :-) I enjoy your blog and I am pretty sure is April 1st. Best of luck to you!

    Keep going but cut the pace. You are pushing too hard.

    I believe is easier to criticize than to start an honest debate, some people leave for prolonged periods very shallow. Post first thing that comes to mind and never think or look back. You are were you are because you are not that way!

  114. People like to criticise as it makes them feel better about their inactivity.

    Hoping this is an April Fools. If not, a few weeks away is always good….and relax! This is one of the few sites I return to, to read every article! :)

  115. I also hope it’s April Fool’s. I always look forward to your posts and have learned a great deal from you.

    I’m dealing with work burnout myself, so I can certainly relate to what you’re saying. We both need a looooong vacation!

    I truly hope it’s a joke, but if not, I want to thank you for all you’ve done for your readers.

  116. Sam, we’ll miss you. Truly.

    Burnout is very real–you can’t help how you feel– and often because you care too much. (I’ve suffered it as a vet: so many people with broken hearts for their sick animals, some days too many euthanasias). Maybe you suffer compassion fatigue. I realise I can’t save them all, but I can help some, and for those that I can, I’ll do my absolute best. Before I can do that, though, I have to take care of me. It’s like the announcement on the plane to put your oxygen mask on first, and then others. Take care of you, Sam. If it’s time to turn the page and start a new chapter, do it.

    Most of all, thank you, so very much. You’ve made a difference in my life, and in many others’.

  117. Sam,
    I found your site from links from RB40 about two years. I enjoy reading your various topics and comments. I visit rb40 and your site multiple times a day for updates.

    Your one post that blew me away was your passive income one. It was one of the first post I read. I was so impressed that at such a young age you generated 150K in passive income from so many sources back then. Congrats that you are making more than 200K of passive income now in 2016!

    I then read more of your posts to see what made you tick and what were your goals. I recalled reading that you wanted to reach 200K in passive income so that you can buy a place in Hawaii and spend more time with family. As the years went on, you brought more propeties and wanted to consult. It was a lot of work for you but I understand that you wanted to use the consulting money to pay off one of your mortgages. Then you brought your current 1 mill house in SF with that amazing sunset! I then wondered why! You had enough assets to fulfill your dream of buying a place in Hawaii but why go thru the stress of remodeling in SF. I did not understand why you were was driven to accumulate so much wealth way beyond what you need to be happy. Then you went over the top by driving for Uber! In my opinion, having so many propeties, consulting job and driving for Uber is not simplifying your life.

    I always wondered when would you get off the hamster wheel and plan your end game. I figured your NW was 10 mil or more and I was baffled why you would drive for Uber? It was an interesting read but why subject yourself to such stress?

    Whether or not this is an April fools post, I support your decision to wind down. It is time to simplify your life and do what is important for you.
    – sell your propeties in SF and your vacation house or just keep one for income.
    – buy a place in Hawaii near your parents
    – start a family now since you ain’t getting any younger.
    – write at most one post every 2-4 weeks.
    – write a couple of e-books on the beach if you like
    – have guest writers
    – kick back, chill and enjoy the rest of the ride. You earned it!

    AJ

  118. Apathy Ends

    I have been reading for about 2 years, thank you for all the awesome content – if you aren’t tricking us then good luck! At least drop by occasionally to tell everyone what you are up to.

  119. Brian Wrage

    Dude, i am sad because i LOVE this blog and have recommended it to many…BUT i am really happy for you since you’re doing what I hope to some day. Life is so short and money isn’t everything (but you sure need enough not to worry about it). Good luck and thank you for all the interesting articles and ideas.

  120. Yeah I didn’t think about the date – is this a joke?! I’m a regular reader who never comments and I feel terrible about the negative comments you have to endure because what you’ve done on this blog, with every post, is SO incredible. The time and thought you put into it is beyond appreciated to readers like myself. Not to mention motivating as heck. People generally find reasons NOT to set the bar high for themselves, but trust me that your average net worth by age post is bookmarked by me and benchmarked against my PC account regularly : ) You’re a baller, Sam, and people are just jealous. Good luck in your next phase in life and hopefully you’ll check in from time to time with us.

  121. Missadancer

    Oh my god I only just found you( well 12 mths ago ) and you are leaving me already !!! Please reconsider!

  122. So sorry to hear this, Sam, but I wish you all the best! To combat my own burnout from life I will be embarking on an exciting new adventure to find and train my own dragon. I watched the Dreamworks movie years ago and just haven’t been able to get the idea out of my head since then. Sure it might be a bit of a challenge actually finding a dragon, but that’s all part of the fun, eh? I will also be legally changing my name to Hiccup, adapting the voice of Jay Baruchel, and moving to Norway to train. I’ve also always wanted to be an astronaut, so once I train my own dragon I plan to fly us to the moon.

    Good luck in your new adventure! ;)

  123. You sound like you sincerely need a break and thought this through carefully. Some things about our lives are only meant to last a season, not forever. You are wise to realize that and I think it shows you are poised for growth in another direction, maybe one you aren’t even contemplating yet.
    You’ve got only great things ahead of you! Follow your gut instinct. It will never be wrong.
    Happiness always!

  124. PhysicianOnFIRE

    It would be FOOLish to walk away now, wouldn’t it?

    To answer your question about avoiding burnout, I think it’s all about setting limits. If you are truly in need of a break, you could try to force yourself to slow down. 1 post a week, no internet after dinner, a few hours of phone down time a day, something along those lines.

    Cheers!
    -PoF

  125. quantakiran

    I’m sad to hear this Sam but if you’re feeling burnt out and unappreciated, then you really do need to take some time off to re-energise. I understand how much it takes to write, timewise and mentally as I’m an amateur novelist myself. And from recent events in my life, I know that the negativity of others can weigh you down even though you tyr and fight it.

    I don’t know if anyone’s ever told you this but not everyone is going to like you and you can’t make everyone happy all the time.

    I hope that once you’re able to shed the bad mental juju, you come back and post again. FS has not only been an financial eye opener for me but also a source of inspiration for my outlook on life. So I would like to say thank you and good luck!

  126. April Fools!!! Love ya, Sam. But seriously, take a couple months off and go play with that neice!!

  127. Kevin @ thebeatercar.com

    “Many just land on one of my articles from a Google search, drop a turd and leave.”

    Haha, that’s a very fitting way to describe it:)

    I too am anxious to know; April fools?

    If not, it’s been a pleasure to read your content, and hope to see you back soon.

  128. Clearly april fool’s joke. Don’t even need to wonder. You went too deep Sam. Next year be more subtle!

  129. I don’t comment often, but you’ve built an incredible site and amount of content that will continue to live on even if you are not creating new content.

    There are a ton of internet tough guys that hide behind comments. I see them on all kinds of things. News stories, Instagram, etc. People are bitter or unhappy with their own situation and it makes them feel better to lash out.

    Enjoy the time away. I’m sure after awhile you find the spark to want to write again.

  130. I can honestly say that you are one of five writers who has completely transformed my financial life. From mountains of debt to having enough passive to quit my job, from soul crushing work to side hustles and real estate. Thank you for all of your efforts over the past several years. I wish you the best, and I hope that it’s not good bye to the blog forever!

  131. Distilled Dollar

    I’m reminded of the story of Ben Franklin because he worked extremely hard and essentially burned himself out as a young man. As a printer of almanacks, the older version of a blog, he had to physically run the presses for 25 years. He retired at the age of 42 and decided to spend more time on politics and science.

    I don’t imagine you have plans to start up a country, but I hope Ben’s story reminds you and other readers that our lives will include many chapters.

    Sam, thanks for all your hard work and insights. I’ve been a reader for ~nine months and started commenting on articles only this year. From another blogger’s perspective, it is easy to see how much effort your posts take.

    As for what to do to keep on going, I would suggest a short ~150 page book called Man’s Search for Meaning by Victor Frankl. It is a powerful story along with an insightful approach to living.

    I must say, you picked an odd day (April 1st) to announce this via a post…

    If you are being serious, then best of luck on this new chapter in your life!

  132. Tyler B Day

    Sam, I vehemently read all the content you put out, but this is my first post.

    Thank you from the bottom of my heart for the amazing product you have provided us over the years. I have learned so much over such a large spectrum of topics. The efforts you put in to educate and inspire us will mean more to me than you could ever know.

    Best wishes for you in the next leg of your journey. And I hope you do get to value the time you have left in this life. Congratulations and so long, for now.

  133. Hi Sam,

    Terribly sorry to see you go as this site has been a great help to me and everybody I have sent your way.

    I think what you have done is a very special thing and you have a tremendous positive impact on people not just in the US but all over the world (UK reader here).

    I think you may have lost the passion rather than burnt out fully, you just need to find a topic you find very exciting and want to talk about as you have mentioned in previous posts. I have not felt that for a while since you picked up a new project, maybe take a break and when you find a new side hustle you will feel ready to come back and talk again.

    All the best with whatever you choose to do and know your real fans support you either way.

    Thanks for everything.

  134. Sam I completely understand. I have enjoyed reading your blog for several years, appreciate how much time you spend on research, and enjoy your take and enthusiasm for all things financial. I am one of your older readers… 55. Six months ago I hit the pause button…not retirement but a pause. I was burned out and negative thoughts were invading my life. Best decision I ever made and so grateful I did it. (I’m not financially independent but made it a priority.) I filled my bucket with visits to family, exercise, meditation and reading. I’m revived and now ready to start a new career which I did this week! Take a pause Sam… You’ve earned it! You’ll grow in ways you haven’t yet imagined.

    1. Certainly an April fools joke.. But if it were true, I would certainly offer the advice of hiring other writers to do Sams work.. Surely they would have a lot of creative ideas along with his to help write.

  135. John C @ Action Economics

    Sam, thank you for all the effort you have put into Financial Samurai. Your blog is one of the first I read and over the years has given me a lot of motivation to keep with it on my website. I actually have always compared my efforts to yours as a benchmark. I’ve never understood your ability to publish 3 substantial posts per week. Occassionally I can write that many, but I felt like I was under enourmous pressure even at 2 posts a week. For the past year I have been writing closer to 1 post a week and Action Economics feels much more like a hobby than a business. You’ve put yourself in a position where you can do anything you want, and I think you deserve to take time off. Heck if I was in your shoes I don’t think I would do much more than writing a post or 2 a month just for the fun of it. Enjoy your time off!

  136. Shutting down may be a blessing in disguise for you because when you’re burnt out you don’t have the clarity to reevaluate your directions in life.

    Clear your mind, and start writing on a completely different topic, or maybe do something completely different altogether and I hope inspiration strikes and you find something you want to do for the long haul. Perhaps a different angle to financial samurai that will change lives. Who’s knows!

    Thank you Sam!

  137. Thanks for all you did. Really appreciate you sharing your journey and being so open.
    Best wishes on a happy, healthy, and prosperous future.

    You should give the family thing a try, it changes everything… and that is ok.

  138. I salute you for making such decision. Not many people can just walk away from doing something for a long time and just wrap it up especially when they are successful at what they are doing. Good luck on the next phase of your life.

    Creating valuable posts are a constant pressure to a lot of writers. Doing that every week is an additional pressure. One of the things I do is to step back and take a rest even if it means not doing anything in the next couple of days but rest.

    You have been a great inspiration to me. I love reading your posts and learned a lot from them.

    Thanks.

  139. Good luck on your new adventure!

    I handled Investment Banking burnout back in 2008 by doing a long hike solo (Camino de Santiago) with no technology or contact with my current world. It was only 3 weeks leave so I had to haul ass. I then returned, quit the job and joined a tiny and laid back boutique. It honestly took about 2 or 3 years to recover properly and I am a very different person since then. I could never return to that level of intensity and I’m not afraid to admit it. I know I will live significantly longer, happier life as a result.

    So go on a long walk, clear your mind and your question will answer itself.

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