I love the FIRE life and don't want to switch to anything else... for me, yes, it's risky, but then: The biggest risk remains never to take any risks ever... and FIRE is a rather good risk to test. The returns should come in the form of happiness dividends, free time, location freedom as well as deep and meaningful relationships with your loved ones. The key is simply, who will be the gatekeeper for all the potential negative emotions FIRE can bombard you with when markets go crazy... handle this one well, and have sufficient buffer, and you'll be fine!