Mindset
You need less than you think: the case for a smaller number
Cutting CHF 1,000 from monthly spending can move your independence date by years. Where the money really goes and how to cut without feeling poorer.
Life energy: hours per purchase
Money is life energy you traded for it. Your real hourly wage counts the commute and the costs of working, and it is often lower than you think.
Your result
- Hours of your life
- 25 hours
- Work days
- 2.7 work days
- Your real hourly wage
- CHF 47.63
Your result, explained
Counting your commute and the costs of working, you earn about CHF 47.63 an hour. CHF 1’200 costs you 25 hours, about 2.7 work days.
Estimates for planning, not advice. Use at your own risk. Read the full disclaimer
How it is calculated
- Real hourly wage = (net monthly income − costs of working) ÷ (working hours + commute, per month).
- Hours = price ÷ real hourly wage.
- Work days = hours ÷ your daily hours including the commute.
More in you need less than you think.
Frequently asked questions
Why include the commute?
It is time you give to your job. Counting it shows what an hour of your life really earns.
What are costs of working?
Money you spend only because you work: transport, lunches out, work clothes, childcare during working hours.
Where does the idea come from?
From the classic personal-finance book ’Your Money or Your Life’. We use it as a quick check before larger purchases.
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