Embracing a Life of Simplicity: Grigory Lukin's Journey to Financial Freedom

Grigory Lukin had a vision: to quit his job at Amazon by 34 and enjoy a life of freedom and happiness.

He didn’t let anything stop him from pursuing his dream.

He embraced a minimalist and smart approach to money, following the principles of Lean FIRE, a financial independence strategy that emphasizes extreme frugality and minimalism.

He learned how to earn more, spend less, and invest wisely, without sacrificing his quality of life.

He was inspired by The 4-Hour Workweek, a book that teaches how to escape the 9-to-5 rat race and live anywhere in the world.

He applied the concept of geographic arbitrage, which means taking advantage of the difference in costs between two geographic locations, while having the same kind of lifestyle.

In 2016, he wrote down his five-year plan to retire in a place with a lower cost of living and better healthcare.

He updated his plan regularly, tracking his progress and adjusting his goals. He was determined to achieve his financial independence as soon as possible.

He practiced frugality in every aspect of his life, from maxing out his 401(k) contributions to cooking his own meals at home. He also enjoyed the simple and free things in life, such as watching sunsets and attending local events.

Lukin’s journey took him from working as a warehouse associate at Amazon to becoming a business analyst.

He used his relocation bonuses strategically, moving from one city to another in the US.

He eventually transferred to Canada, where he became a financial analyst. This was a crucial step, as it allowed him to start his life in a new country with a lower cost of living and better healthcare.

In 2020, he sold his Amazon stock at its peak, making a huge profit.

He reinvested his money in undervalued sectors, earning a whopping 293% return. This gave him the financial security he needed to make his final move to Quebec City, where he could live comfortably on a modest budget. He indulged in his passions, such as experimenting with new recipes in his Instant Pot and exploring the cultural and historical attractions of the city.

Lukin’s story is not only about retiring early; it’s a lesson on how to live simply, intentionally, and joyfully.

He shows us that with a clear vision, a solid plan, and a lot of discipline, anything is possible.

He proves that you don’t need a lot of money to be happy; you just need to know what matters to you and go for it.