In this episode, Aaron shares a deeply personal story about walking away from what seemed like the “smart financial decision.” After landing a high-paying corporate job that promised early financial freedom, he quickly realized the hidden cost, long hours, constant travel, loneliness, and a marriage under strain. Despite the impressive paycheck, the life behind it felt empty. Aaron opens up about the moment he chose emotional well-being, relationships, and happiness over money and how that decision reshaped his philosophy on financial planning.

This episode challenges the idea that success means constant sacrifice and burnout. It’s a reflection on how our pursuit of wealth can blind us to what truly matters and a reminder that financial planning should be about more than numbers.

Key Topics Discussed:

• The emotional toll of chasing financial success

• Balancing career ambition with mental health and relationships

• Why “the smart financial move” isn’t always the right life move

• The myth of “paying your dues” to achieve happiness later

• Redefining wealth: how money should support your happiness, not replace it

• Building a financial plan that prioritizes fulfillment, not just returns

Article: Why Chasing Bigger Numbers Can Make You Miserable

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Connect with Aaron Buchner: 

• Weekly email: Your weekly jab
• Website: Prick-Free
• aaron@prickfree.com
• 613-876-9899
• LinkedIn: Aaron Buchner
• Facebook: Aaron – Cactus
• Instagram: @aaron.b.cactus
• Threads: aaron.b.cactus

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