Key Facts
• Kristine Wu disliked her career at a major U.S. law firm from the start.
• She planned a 7-year exit strategy but retired in her 6th year.
• Wu achieved financial independence through index fund investments and frugal living.
• She worked in the Hong Kong office of a U.S. law firm, focusing on capital markets.
• Wu calculated her savings rate to retire within 7 years before starting her job.
• She invested most of her income in total index funds, yielding over 10% annual returns.
• Wu avoided the lavish lifestyle of her colleagues, focusing on her financial goals.
• Her career in “Big Law” was demanding, leaving little time to spend money.
• Wu retired earlier than planned due to significant investment gains.
• Post-retirement, she pursued hobbies like learning Spanish and creating content.
• Wu found freedom in leaving her legal career, despite losing employer-provided health insurance.
Summary
Kristine Wu, a former lawyer, achieved financial independence and early retirement (FIRE) after six years in a demanding career at a major U.S. law firm in Hong Kong. Initially planning a seven-year exit, she retired early due to disciplined savings, index fund investments, and a frugal lifestyle. Wu rejected the extravagant lifestyle of her colleagues, instead channeling her income into investments yielding over 10% annual returns. Her career, though lucrative, was unfulfilling and left little time for personal enjoyment. Post-retirement, Wu embraced freedom, pursuing hobbies and travel while reflecting on the value of experiences over material wealth. Despite minor drawbacks like losing employer-provided health insurance, she has no regrets about her decision to leave the legal profession.
