FAQ’s

No. It is possible for 60-70% of the population. We estimate that only 2% of the population would have the tolerance for the sacrifice, discomfort, and mental toughness.

No.

Similar goals, but different approaches. We approach the philosophy of self-control, mindfulness, intentionality, and discipline above all else. Askesis embraces extreme sacrifice and an ascetic level of discipline. Askesis demands 15-25 years of rigorous problem-solving, self-reliance, and minimalism to achieve lasting financial independence. We focus on continuing to grow net worth post-retirement, avoiding depletion or limitations.

That’s the time it takes. There’s no short cuts. You might be further ahead starting out and it’ll take less time. You might be in debt and it takes more. This is true financial freedom, a step beyond financial independence.

Askesis doesn’t tell you what your end should be. It simply prepares you to reach it, clear-minded and fully in control. Our seekers generally express three categories of end goals; generational wealth, legacy, or complete freedom.

Askesis seekers are quiet workers who prioritize action over public discourse. If you’re focused on consumption, little time will be left for production. If you live intentionally, you know exactly where you’re going, what you’re supposed to be doing, and believe in yourself. Much media exists to sow confusion, inspire debate, or promote distractions when you should be tuning out and working.

Askesis would ask, what if you don’t die? How many people, that you know, are living an unintentional life? Just going through the motions every day, have little to no purpose, and never see freedom for themselves. That’s not freedom. Statistically, U.S. life expectancy is 78.8 years as of 2023 CDC data. Focus on living and eliminating excuses. Askesis always plays the long game.

Yes, but enjoyment is refinded through mindfulness and intentionality. Many joys in life are free, including nature, physical activity, human connection, reading, creative expression, volunteering, and community events. When you start consuming less, the mental and health benefits will appear. This is simply a change of mindset and there is an abundant amount of joy in the world.

Motivation will come from living intentionally and staying focused on your long-term vision. Challenges become habits, and habits turn into lifestyles. You will develop resilience as you see your progress over time and can begin to slowly adjust your lifestyle towards freedom.

Frugal is intentional where cheap is reactive. We live intentionally and act in a proactive manner so we are in control of our lives and have the power to choose. Frugality in Askesis is a form of power while cheapness is fear-based.

Low income doesn’t hinder the Askesis mindset. Higher income levels allow you to accelerate your journey to financial freedom and gain more capital to invest. Askesis demands the elimination of all excuses. Frugality and consistent saving, even on low incomes, can build significant wealth over time through compounding. Every excuse exists for you not to succeed, find your way forward.

We have an entire library of resources available for free. Start by reading one thing each day. If you have enough time to read this whole website in one day, you have too much free time and are not producing enough, you might need Askesis.

Answer 1: The Askesis mindset views most debt, especially consumer debt, as a barrier to financial freedom, chaining individuals to past mistakes and behavior. We rigorously prioritize bad debt elimination to redirect capital towards wealth building.

Answer 2: Debt is strategically used by many wealthy individuals. It can be a tool when its cost is lower than the income or appreciation of an asset, like a business or property. This requires disciplined and mindful evaluation to ensure alignment with long-term wealth growth. Our paid services teach you how to assess such decisions independently, focusing on general financial principles, while not providing specific debt or investment advice.

The Askesis mindset prioritizes self-reliance and personal growth over external resources like funds, influencers, or advisors. Our paid coaching services focus on teaching you to develop discipline, mindfulness, and skills to manage your finances independently, aligning with your values. We do not provide specific investment advice or guidance but we do answer general questions on the Askesis Market Watch page and through our Blog.

Yes, our founder has lived the Askesis mindset his whole life. He had to start over twice. Once when we has 18 and lost his life savings in a risky stock market bet, and another at 21 being laid off from his job and having no money. You can view other Askesis stories on our The Future 2% page to see those currently on a similar journey. Askesis is a lifestyle, not a get rich quick scheme. Your results will be directly tied to the effort you put in, the decisions you make in life, and the risks you take to get ahead.

You can share that Askesis is a deliberate choice to live intentionally and prioritize your long-term freedom over short-term pleasures. Explain how discipline aligns with your values and become unapologetically you. You may lose people, but those who truly care will support your goals, cheer on your growth, and will be so much better off once you are free. Bring them with you and get them involved in the journey.

Yes, but all members must commit to the ascetic lifestyle and shared values. Couples and families who do not align on or communicate about financial and life goals will go through struggles that Askesis is not equipped to solve for you. Askesis Pro offers free inclusion of a spouse or partner.

Children are an extension of their parents, who they rely on to teach them discipline and values. Involve children in frugal practices, like budgeting, to align family life with wealth building. Don’t be afraid to show children your financial figures. It’s often a taboo subject leaving children with low financial literacy. Beside, what could be better than building generational wealth than to involve the next generation. Remember that your sacrifices will make it easier for them to keep building and getting further and further ahead. If you’re the 2%, your children or their children could become the 1%. Askesis can be obtained whether you have children or not.