Breaking Out of the Rat Race: Confidence, Calculated Risks, and Passing It On

Last weekend, we celebrated something big: our friend George and his wife had just exchanged on their first investment property! It's a huge step toward financial independence, complementing the rent-to-rent portfolio he’s been building. George has calculated that if he keeps this pace, he’ll be free of the “rat race” within three years. We threw a party in our garden to celebrate—and got to enjoy a family milestone of our own: finally setting up the zip line I promised my kids years ago!

The scene was complete with laughter, clinking glasses, and shrieks of joy from kids flying down the zip line. Between conversations about property investments and making the leap toward financial freedom, George and I talked about what it takes to break out of society’s mould, achieve your goals, and instil that confidence in your kids along the way.

Here are some key takeaways for anyone thinking about breaking out of the rat race, growing their confidence, and passing it on to the next generation:

1. Build Confidence with Calculated Risks

• George and I talked about how essential it is to leap—but not blindly. Investing in property, starting a side business, or building a passive income stream requires calculated steps. That’s why he didn’t just quit his job on a whim; he took classes, planned, and made the leap with a safety net. Having that backup gives you confidence, knowing you won’t end up “crashing on the rocks” like the Sirens in Greek mythology.

2. Prioritise Education Over Entertainment

• It sounds simple, but choosing education over leisure is a “secret life hack” most people overlook. To succeed, you must put in the work, and that means prioritising learning over distractions. George said his real transformation began when he traded hours of TV for books, courses, and property ?seminars. Building a growth-oriented mindset is the foundation of long-term success.

3. Cover Your Liabilities with Passive Income

• One of the biggest roadblocks to leaving the rat race is financial stress. George knew he couldn’t achieve his goals until he could cover liabilities with passive income, so he focused on building income streams that could support him. It’s freeing to know you can handle monthly expenses without working full-time.

4. Confidence Starts Small (and so Should Kids)

• Watching the kids line up for the zip line, I noticed how hesitant George’s younger daughter was. A little encouragement can go a long way, and that applies to adults, too! We’ve always encouraged our kids to step out of their comfort zones, whether ordering food at a restaurant or making new friends. These small experiences build the confidence to tackle bigger challenges later in life.

5. Pass It On to the Next Generation

• The confidence to pursue goals, make mistakes, and learn from them is a gift that lasts a lifetime. Encourage your children (or younger colleagues!) to think for themselves, take calculated risks, and explore new paths. Model the mindset that success doesn’t just mean financial wealth; it’s about personal growth, confidence, and creating your own life journey.

The Takeaway? Confidence Builds Freedom—And Freedom Builds Confidence.

George’s journey shows us that achieving financial freedom is about more than numbers—it’s about breaking out of the traditional mould and embracing your path with purpose. And as George is discovering, that confidence will one day pass on to his kids, who’ll see him as a role model for living a life on his terms.

So, what’s your next step? Whether it's educating yourself on investments or taking that “small leap” toward a passion project, remember that real change starts with confident (and calculated!) action.