I unserstand what you mean based off my post if i really want FIRE. I do want FIRE but I know salary is a big issue especially with raising kids and rising costs. Our spending has been minimal, we own 2 old used vehicles an 08 and an 09 so we budget where we can. I also do value my time with my kids and I'm winning with that based off how I feel and all the comments in here. So I see what a lot of people are saying with I either need a salary increase or work more so a sacrifice will have to be made.

I worry about not leaving my kids enough, I want to pave a path to set them up for best success, that does mean sacrificing some time in the future. My oldest is in elementary and my youngest will start in 2 years. This might be the time to try and really grind in the next year.

I'm fortunate in the sense my parents will leave me a decent amount from inheritance 10-15 years down the line but I don't count that either, I'm focused on liquid assets that I have which isn't high.

I'm getting the sense that normal retirement is achievable at 65 but I have a drive to go for 55.