February 2012 update ($182,600 +$13,000 or +7,0%).

I have managed to accumulate another  $3,400 towards my annual investment goal and  this year I was paid a small bonus at work. After a few small presents I decided to invest it all (around $10,000).

The portfolio changes:

↓ Emerging market securities were down 1,5%

↓ The energy company stock is down about 3,7%

↑ Cash contribution of $13,400

How to make willingness to achieve financial independence more clear and inspirational?

 - Keep the record where your money goes to. At least for a few years . It will help you to understand your needs and the split  between your essentials and the rest.

My original goal to achieve financial independence was $60,000 a year.  Percentage wise it goes like this (simplified):

 -  You can have accumulate your wealth towards one item at the time using the projected interest rate. For my financial independence plan it is 3%.

So to have the items for life I need:

January 2012 update ($169,600 +$4,000 or +2,0%)

I have managed to accumulate another  $3,400 towards my annual investment goal , which had been the only growth contributor.