I Quit My $390K/Year Job At Google For A Mini Retirement In Switzerland

About this video

• Video Title: I Quit My $390K/Year Job At Google For A Mini Retirement In Switzerland
• Channel: CNBC Make It
• Speakers: Florence Poirel
• Duration: 00:07:11

Overview

This video features Florence Poirel, a 37-year-old former senior program manager at Google, who shares her experience of quitting a high-paying job to pursue a "mini-retirement" in Switzerland. She discusses her journey from a career-driven mindset to "de-ambition," her financial strategy (including a high savings rate and reaching $1.5 million saved), and her current lifestyle in Switzerland, balancing expenses with her partner and enjoying nature. Poirel also touches on the concept of "Coast FIRE" and her intentions for future employment.

Key takeaways

• Mindset Shift: Florence Poirel experienced a shift from a career-driven "grind" to "de-ambition," realizing the importance of stopping the constant climb and enjoying life.
• Financial Independence: She saved aggressively, achieving an 80-85% savings rate and accumulating $1.5 million by January 2024, enabling her to take a "mini-retirement."
• Lifestyle in Switzerland: Poirel now lives in Thalwil, enjoying the quality of life, proximity to nature, and a more relaxed pace. She shares insights into her living expenses, including rent and food, emphasizing a frugal yet comfortable lifestyle.
• Financial Approach in Partnership: She maintains separate finances with her partner, splitting shared expenses proportionally to their income (65% for him, 35% for her), to preserve independence.
• "Coast FIRE" Concept: Poirel identifies with "Coast FIRE," meaning she has saved enough that her investments will grow to cover retirement without needing significant further savings, allowing for flexible, part-time employment.
• Value of Experience: She emphasizes that life is short and beautiful, valuing experiences and time with loved ones over a demanding career, and is happy she pursued this mini-retirement when she did.