How to Get “Fuck You Money”

Achieving the "Fuck You Money" mindset transcends mere wealth accumulation.

For a long time, I was convinced that having substantial financial resources would lead to the freedom I sought, as many societal norms suggest.

At 19, while attending the Portuguese Bank Training Institute, my friends Rodrigo, Andrey, and I set an ambitious goal for ourselves: to accumulate $1 million by the age of 30.

In today's context, that figure seems less impressive due to inflation, but two decades ago, it represented a significant amount for any teenager in Portugal.

In pursuit of that million-dollar dream, I dedicated a decade of my life to a corporate career, donning suits and ties while working 14-hour days. I became what I now refer to as a “necktie slave,” bound to my job without genuine freedom.

Consequently, after ten years, I found myself not only financially burdened but also emotionally and spiritually drained.

I intend no offense, but I urge everyone to cultivate greater self-awareness, especially regarding their own entrapments. This awareness is crucial for reaching the state of “Fuck You Money.”

Believe me, self-awareness can lead to significant financial success!

Necktie Slavery

Last year, my friend Hanad, who enjoys a life of travel on a budget filled with fun and relaxation, visited me in Hong Kong.

One afternoon, I stepped out of my venture capital office in the heart of the financial district to join him for a drink at a bar named Liberty, conveniently located near the Stock Exchange.

During our chat, Hanad remarked, impressed, “Look at all these guys in their neckties and fancy suits; they must be making a fortune.”

To this, I replied, “They are all necktie slaves. While some may be wealthy, they remain trapped. Don’t be misled by appearances.”

Just because someone dons a suit and tie doesn't mean they possess freedom or happiness.

Having spent a decade in similar attire, I now see someone proudly sporting a suit and think, “Poor soul, unaware of their captivity. I hope one day they awaken to the truth.”

Having “Fuck You Money” is Not About the Money

Many individuals find themselves improving their circumstances, moving to larger homes in affluent neighborhoods, and feeling pressured to keep up with their neighbors' superior cars and luxurious lifestyles.

This creates a hamster wheel effect, where one must earn increasingly more just to maintain the status quo, leading to the neglect of personal dreams. The relentless pursuit of higher salaries often causes people to forget what truly matters.

As I expressed in my article, “I Quit My Job Because I’m Dying,” the chase for a paycheck often leads to the abandonment of one's aspirations.

Don't be deceived by the notion that money equates to freedom.

True freedom is about owning oneself; it is a mindset.

Being self-owned represents the pinnacle of “Fuck You Money.”

True “Fuck You Money” is a mental state.

The Hadza People Have the Ultimate “Fuck You Money”

I am captivated by the Hadza people, whom I consider some of the wisest and wealthiest individuals on the planet.

As one of the last remaining hunter-gatherer societies in Africa, the Hadza reside in Tanzania but do not identify with national boundaries or politics.

They thrive in egalitarian groups without formal leadership, making decisions collectively.

Their possessions are minimal, consisting of animal skins, tools, bows, and arrows, which affords them significant freedom and flexibility. They lack a calendar, moving in harmony with nature, and they do not adhere to any religious beliefs.

The Hadza dismiss political matters, reject orders, and are unconcerned with laws.

In 2007, when the Tanzanian government attempted to convert their territory into a safari resort, aiming to relocate them into villages with provided housing, the Hadza responded defiantly.

They are arguably the freest people on Earth, embodying the essence of “Fuck You Money” without reliance on financial wealth.

Thus, “Fuck You Money” isn't about the size of your bank account; it's a state of mind.

The Hadza possess a mindset of self-ownership. Despite being aware of modern comforts, their commitment to their traditional way of life remains unwavering.

They own their beliefs and are never compelled to act against their will.

This, I believe, is the true essence of “Fuck You Money.”

It isn't about amassing $100,000,000.

Rather, it is about being entirely self-sufficient and independent.

A Diogenes Level of Wealth

Diogenes, a Greek philosopher famed for his radical asceticism and rejection of societal norms, exemplified the concept of “Fuck You Money” philosophically.

One day, King Alexander the Great encountered Diogenes and inquired if he could do anything for him. Diogenes could have requested wealth or material possessions, but instead, he simply said, “Yes, you’re blocking the sun; move.”

Alexander left, remarking, “If I weren’t Alexander, I’d want to be Diogenes.”

C-level Slavery

The concept of “Fuck You Money” primarily transcends monetary wealth or corporate hierarchy.

In 2019, while ensnared in corporate servitude at HSBC, I realized that position does not equate to freedom.

During that time, CEO Noel Quinn faced immense pressure from the Chinese government after HSBC disclosed Huawei's financial documents, resulting in the arrest of Huawei's CFO.

Quinn, now in his sixties, found himself in a precarious situation, likely forced to appease the Chinese authorities against his will.

Despite his substantial earnings—$13 million in 2023—this does not constitute “Fuck You Money.”

True “Fuck You Money” means: regardless of the compensation, one refuses to undertake actions against their will.

A Hadza person would never compromise their values, no matter the financial incentive.

Acquiring “Fuck You Money” requires more than wealth.

The notion of “Fuck You Money” is futile if one is still ensnared within a corporate structure that restricts freedom of expression.

Many wealthy individuals cannot voice their true opinions for fear of losing their jobs, rendering them mere automatons, predictable in their responses.

To achieve “Fuck You Money,” one must possess both financial resources and a liberated mindset. True independence resembles that of the Hadza tribe.

A person is free who possesses their own thoughts.

Self-Ownership

A truly free individual is defined as someone who cannot be coerced into actions against their will.

At 39, I finally reached this level of freedom. Attaining it required diligent saving, investing, quitting my job, and relocating to a more affordable area.

Now, I genuinely feel liberated. I engage in activities I enjoy, at my own pace, with whom I choose.

This morning, I rose at 6 AM to write this article, continued at a coffee shop, and later spent time with my cat and worked out.

I intentionally avoid scheduling too many meetings to prevent being tethered to a calendar. If someone wishes to discuss something, I simply say, “Call me around 4; we might be able to chat.”

Only by mastering your time can you also master your opinions. You become the steward of your own beliefs.

How to Break Free

It's acceptable to work within the corporate framework. Many of us must navigate this system. However, the goal of excelling in this environment should not lead to succumbing to the “keeping up with the Joneses” mentality.

The purpose of winning is to escape the game entirely!

Cease the unconscious comparisons, the relentless competition, and the pursuit of status that leads to exhaustion.

Winning the game should ultimately lead to liberation from it, not into deeper entrapment.

Once you achieve enough, simply withdraw from the game!

You owe no obligations to anyone beyond yourself and your immediate family and friends.

Separate the Needs from the Wants

While wandering through an Athens market, Socrates remarked, “There are countless things I do not desire.”

We often conflate our desires with our necessities, leading many into the consumerist rat race.

You and I require little more than the Hadza: sustenance, shelter, and a bit of companionship. Everything else may hinder our freedom—the ability to assert, “I don’t want to do that.”

If I could revisit my twenties, I would emphasize the importance of distinguishing between needs and wants.

I squandered funds on lavish living and social activities due to societal pressure.

No longer will I be the person who preaches financial independence while flaunting luxury.

Instead, I will advocate for frugality, smart investing, and ultimately stepping away from the game.

Conclusion

In our quest for genuine freedom and “Fuck You Money,” we must understand that it’s more about our mindset than the balance in our bank accounts.

This is not to say we should disregard wealth—pursue it!

However, realize that true “Fuck You Money” demands more than just financial resources.

We should strive for self-ownership and authentic living. This approach may enable a comfortable retirement with far less than conventional wisdom suggests.

By differentiating our needs from our desires and breaking free from societal expectations, we can unlock the ultimate wealth:

The freedom to lead a life entirely on our terms, unbound by obligations to anyone or anything.

— Henrique Centieiro

> If you found this article valuable, I appreciate your support! > > Ways to support my work: Clap up to 50, leave a message sharing your thoughts, and be sure to follow. > > Stay connected: > Your hub for insights on Crypto, AI, Blockchain, & Investment | Linktree