This Independence Day, we set out to find out what freedom means to young Indians. We focused on financial freedom in particular because we believe that financial freedom, can very well determine everything else.

At 25: Financial freedom for me is to be able to make my own decisions, without having to worry about money.

It’s the impulse and spontaneity that comes with having my own money saved up. I can do whatever I want, without having to think twice.

What I am doing about it: Every alternate month, I go on a savings spree, wherein, I don’t splurge on unnecessary stuff, just because an e-commerce site has sales going on.

– 25, Female, Digital Marketing Executive

At 26: Financial freedom for me means my hard earned income is just for my needs alone. I don’t want to share it with anyone.

What I am doing about it: I work hard, save more and spend less on things I don’t really need. I am a proud minimalist.

– 26, Female, Techie

At 27: I wish to be self-employed soon.

What I am doing about it: I invest in equity. This is my long term plan so that in a few years’ time, I will get awesome returns to start my own dream company!

– 27, Male, Product Engineer

At 28: Financial freedom to me simply means not having to borrow from anyone, at any point in my life.

What I am doing about it: I have saved up in bank fixed deposits and I invest in Mutual Funds via SIP every month from my salary.

– 28, Male, Techie

At 29: I want to be able to afford a high standard of living for my family and myself. I don’t want to compromise on their needs and mine, due to lack of money.

What I am doing about it: I am working hard, to get a good hike at work. I use my savings to invest in Mutual Funds. I do an SIP in tax-saving funds, to optimize my savings.

– 29, Male, Product Marketing Manager

At 30: Financial freedom for me means to be free from everything! Free from paying rent, free from working under someone else, and free from money worries.

By 45, I wish to have my own house, my own company, and some real estate investments, to get tenant income on a regular basis, so that I can enjoy the rest of my life, without the day-to-day struggle.

What I am doing about it: I have saved up in several FDs and I am investing in Mutual Funds.

– 30, Male, Graphic Designer

What does financial freedom mean to you? And what are you doing to achieve it? Tell us in the comments section below.