Wondering how to retire early? Lots of people would like an early escape from the rat race, whether it is to travel, pursue a passion project, start a business, volunteer, or just stop working. However, retirement planning is tricky enough when you plan to work until your full retirement age. It is even more so if you want to stop working years or even decades sooner. Can it be done? Absolutely. But unless you are independently wealthy, and few people are it will take work and discipline. Here are five key steps to take.