What are you (Chubby) Fire'ing to? What is the reason you want to "get out"?
I have just started to Chubby-fire but not because I "pulled the trigger" but because I was offered a good severance package as part of a RIF. While I contemplated finding a bridge role (which is very feasible in my firm), I decided to take the package.
I had always wanted to FIRE at some point but it was always a few years out with a "latest at 50", I am now 46.
It's been quite a big decision to take the package and to get out. I feel like many treat it as a financial equation, which of course it is as a baseline, but the finances are not everything. I believe I can handle the finances pretty well. But then there are the other questions around:
- while I was completely burnt out so this was almost a welcome surprise, am I running away from Corporate and a hard environment instead of confronting it?
- I have finally taken up the hobbies I always wanted to do: Lego Technic builds, grappling, tennis, RC planes (and simulator), hiking, etc. These hobbies currently give me great pleasure. Instead of rushing to the office in the morning, I take slow mornings and actually enjoy my coffee with my wife (she stopped working last year). But will these hobbies become boring?
- What is the purpose from now on? I never felt purpose in Corporate but there was always the shared goal. However, the politics and grind really got to me.
I'd be curious to get a perspective of others in the situation (regardless if you are also in the "Cubby Fire" category or higher / lower). What made you pull the trigger or what is the expected reason to pull the trigger?
Posted May 6, 2026, 11:18 PM UTC