Additional Coverage:
- I moved from the US to Thailand, leaving most of my family behind. I don’t feel guilty for prioritizing my goals and desires. (businessinsider.com)
Chasing a Dream: Couple Relocates to Thailand for Early Retirement
A couple has made a bold move, relocating to Thailand to pursue their dream of early retirement. After dedicating years to raising their family in the US, they decided it was time to prioritize their own aspirations.
The husband, a father of three, described the initial guilt he felt about leaving his children and grandchildren behind. Years of working multiple jobs and side hustles to support his family had ingrained a sense of responsibility that was hard to shake. He and his first wife put their personal desires on hold to provide for their children, believing that travel and other pursuits were luxuries they couldn’t afford.
After his first marriage ended, he began to consider what he wanted out of life. The idea of prioritizing himself felt unfamiliar and even shameful at first.
Despite these feelings, he started traveling internationally and eventually met his current wife. Together, they continued to explore the world, living in Florida and Medellín, Colombia, before setting their sights on early retirement.
With six adult children and several grandchildren between them, the couple felt they had fulfilled their parental duties and were ready for a new chapter. A careful analysis of their finances revealed that retiring in the US wasn’t feasible. The high cost of living, coupled with the potential for crippling medical expenses, led them to seek a more affordable option.
Therapy played a crucial role in the husband’s journey, helping him overcome childhood trauma and feelings of parental guilt. He realized that he had the right to pursue his own happiness and let go of the obligation to live near his family.
With a newfound sense of freedom, the couple chose Thailand, where they could enjoy a comfortable lifestyle for under $3,000 a month while still having access to modern amenities and affordable healthcare. Two of their children joined them in obtaining five-year visas.
The move has been a resounding success. The couple reports saving over $10,000 a month and enjoying a higher quality of life.
They emphasize that Thailand is easily accessible for visiting family and friends. While their children have chosen to remain in the US, they fully support each other’s decisions and believe that prioritizing their own well-being is ultimately beneficial for the entire family.