The Secret to Retiring Rich (Hint: It’s Not Luck)

If I told you I just uncovered the secret to retiring early and rich, would you believe me?

Hey Triber, Happy New Month!

Welcome to another edition of The One Thing Newsletter with TechBabe. I was this close to writing about love (because, February vibes ??) but nahhh... or wait—would you actually want me to? Let me know!

That aside, how’s the first Monday of February treating you? I’d love to hear how you’re kicking off the month. Reply and share—I read every message!

But now, let’s get into it.

One Thing I’m Doing

I came across this quote from Marissa Mayer (ex-Google exec, former Yahoo CEO), and it hit hard:

"I always did something I was a little not ready to do. I think that's how you grow — when there's that moment of, 'Wow, I'm really not sure I can do this,' and you push through."

Lately, I’ve been doing a lot of things I’m not “ready” for—pushing myself out of my comfort zone daily. It’s been rough (like, really tough) but also ridiculously rewarding.

So here’s my question for you: What’s one thing you’re doing that scares you? Hit reply and let me know—I want to hear all about it.

One Thing I’m Learning

Retirement is not about age—it’s about money.

You can either retire at 40, chilling in the Maldives ?? or at 70, shouting “My pikin, abeg send something” every month. The choice is yours.

So a friend of mine sent me this amazing article about a Nigerian woman who retired with over ?1 billion in assets. And no, she didn’t come from old money or hit the jackpot—she just made some really smart money moves early.

Here’s link to the actual story and here’s what I learned from her playbook on how to retire young and stress-free:

1. Start Early, Start Small, But Be Consistent

She started saving 40% of her salary from age 26! Sounds like witchcraft? ?? Because, bills in lagos. Anyways i do believe that even a 10% or 20% consistently can do wonders. The biggest hack? Consistency—because, truth is, money doesn’t multiply by vibes cheques.

2. Real Estate is King

She invested in real estate early. Not Ikoyi duplexes (lol, I wish)—but affordable plots in developing areas (Epe, anyone?). Even a small land purchase today could be a game-changer in 10 years.

3. Fixed Deposits Are Not Just for Boring People

She used fixed deposits to grow her money safely. Think of it like planting a money tree—except this one actually grows and doesn’t depend on rain.

4. Stocks & Investments? Yes, But No Gamble ooo

She also put money in stocks, but she wasn’t just dashing money to the stock market like a Yahoo boy buying bottles at Quilox. She did her research, invested wisely, and let compound interest do its magic. That made me realize I needed to kill that thought of investments as a get-rich-quick thing.

5. Pension is Your Friend (If You Plan Well)

I won’t lie, I never really paid attention to pensions especially a techie. But seeing how she now earns ?500k per month in retirement made me rethink that. I believe I can earn more, sha.

Yunno, the idea of getting paid for simply existing?? That’s my whole dream, honestly—I'm just a girl. ??

6. Having a Money Mentor is important

One thing she did was get financial advice from people who actually understand money. I realized that I can’t take financial advice from friends who always say “Omo, we go run am” but never actually have money. Or maybe I’m wrong? (Please feel free to prove me otherwise.)

Honestly, reading her story made me think: I don’t want to be old and stressed about money. Even if I can’t save or invest a lot right now, starting small and staying consistent could make a huge difference.

I’m not saying I have it all figured out, but at least now I know that “future me” is counting on “present me” to make smart moves. And honestly? That’s motivation enough.

One Thing You Should Do

This week, take one small step towards shifting your mindset. Maybe:

Take action on that one thing you've been avoiding—the thing that scares you or keeps getting pushed to the side. It could be a conversation, a decision or just getting started. Trust me, the hardest part is always the first step.

Now, Your Turn!

1?? What’s one thing you’re doing?

2?? What’s one thing you’re learning that’s shifting your perspective?

3?? What’s one thing you think I should try?

Hit reply and tell me—I always read my messages.

And hey, If this newsletter gave you some insight, send it to your tribe—good things are meant to be shared! ??

Until next week, Stay spectacular!

With Love,

Akodu Loveth – That Tech Babe