I 'micro-retired' in my 30s by investing every dollar from my side income. It sounds almost too simple to be true, but it works.

• 03/26/2025, 5:15 AM
• businessinsider.com

Upasna Gautam

This as-told-to essay is based on a conversation with Upasna Gautam, a 39-year-old tech leader who quit a job at CNN to embark on a "micro-retirement" after achieving financial independence. Business Insider has verified Gautam's employment and finances. The following had been edited for length and clarity.