The SMARTEST things that I did back when I worked a full-time job.

If you want to retire early, read this.

A thread.

h/t to @oliviercantin for this tweet idea.

Background: I spent 14-years working in information technology.

Started as a software developer, got promoted over the years to the Director of Information Technology.

Demoted myself back to a developer after HATING management.

Retired at 35.

1: I took advantage of company-sponsored 401(k) and Roth IRA plans from my very first paycheck.

Maxed these suckers out the last two years of working full-time.

Game changer.

2: I asked for raises and promotions.

I never left my career to chance. When there was an opening that I wanted, I took it.

Promotions. Bonuses. Lateral moves.

I was never afraid to tell my managers what I wanted.

And, the next point enabled all this.

3: Excellent work ethic.

I showed up at 6 am every day. I did the best job I could.

I dressed for the part. Made friends. Almost never said no.

Be a productive member of the office and you might be surprised at what can happen.

4: I switched companies (5 times).

Every time I switched companies, I got a 10 to 15% raise, minimum.

This works.

Don't remain loyal unless that loyalty is returned.

5: I worked out every day.

Weight training gave me the energy, drive, and dedication to pursue this whole journey.

I got stronger. More confident.

Fitness works. Do it.

6: I started my post-retirement career before I quit.

I spun up a blog. Well over 100,000 monthly pageviews. Made around $1,500 a month - minimal monetization.

NEVER wait.

7: I prioritized my after-work thoughts, AT WORK.

At work, I got my work done, fast. I built in efficiencies so I could focus on other things. Better things.

Things I was proud of.

Like retirement.