If you're determined, I would say don't listen to the haters. I've been a member of FIRE since college, downshifted and it's amazing. I never really enjoyed working (actually, hated it) so I get to spend my time on this earth doing what I want to do (read classic books right now.)
https://www.mrmoneymustache.com/2012/01/13/the-shockingly-si...
It's going to take a huge change in habits.
If you're determined, I would say don't listen to the haters. I've been a member of FIRE since college, downshifted and it's amazing. I never really enjoyed working (actually, hated it) so I get to spend my time on this earth doing what I want to do (read classic books right now.)