What's the difference between FI and RE in 'FIRE'?

FI (financial independence) and RE (retire early) are two separate ideas that often get bundled together. FI is the money condition: your investments generate enough to cover your living expenses, so you no longer depend on a paycheck. RE is a lifestyle choice — actually leaving traditional work — and it's entirely optional. Many people pursue FI with no intention of retiring; they want the freedom to choose work they love, take risks, start a business, or simply remove the fear of job loss. Reaching FI without RE is sometimes the saner goal, since fully retired people frequently discover they want purpose, structure, or some income anyway. Separating the two helps you focus on the part that matters: building independence first, then deciding for yourself whether and how much to keep working.