I’ve recently been struck by some conversations I’ve had with regards to financial planning, and what an adviser actually does. It’s clear that there is a substantial perception gap when it comes to what people think I do, compared to the reality of the professional financial adviser role. This also extends to the assumptions that new and prospective clients have about my role as an adviser when I am talking to them for the first time. Such assumptions can include: I simply recommend specific products for certain circumstances I just want to help you consolidate all your pensions into a single arrangement My role is to invest your money for you I will look to sell you life insurance and... Read More

Financial advice helps people feel more in control of their future and achieve their goals. Yet, knowing where to seek professional advice you can rely on can be difficult. That’s why being named one of VouchedFor’s Top Rated financial advisers is an honour. Today, VouchedFor’s 2025 Top Rated guide to financial advisers is distributed in The Times and celebrates the best financial advice firms in the UK. It’s an invaluable tool for those who could benefit from financial advice but aren’t sure where to start. As the ratings are based on client reviews, readers can feel confident they’re contacting a trusted professional who will support their aspirations. I’m thrilled that I’ve been included in the VouchedFor Top Rated guide in... Read More

In video games, “easy mode” is a popular setting that makes the gaming experience more accessible and less challenging for players. When you play in this mode, the game automatically adjusts various elements to make your journey smoother and more manageable. For example: Enemies become weaker Resources are more abundant The consequences of making mistakes are less severe. This allows you to enjoy the game at a pace that suits your skill level without feeling overwhelmed or frustrated. Like gaming, many people find the world of finance and investing intimidating and complex. In this article, read about how applying “easy mode” strategies to financial planning can help you manage your finances more effectively and achieve your goals. The challenges of... Read More

After sitting on my “must read” list for some time, I’ve recently finished reading the New York Times bestseller Atomic Habits by James Clear. As the title suggests, it outlines the important role positive habits have in daily life, as they can help you accomplish more by focusing on what’s important. While, unlike some of the other books I’ve referenced in previous blogs, it does not relate directly to financial planning, but it does include some behavioural lessons that you can apply successfully to managing your money. The Goldilocks Rule One section of the book that captured my attention was when Clear outlined what he calls the “Goldilocks Rule”. As you will no doubt be aware, in the story of... Read More

In our modern world, it’s too easy to overcomplicate most things in your life. Such complexity has a way of taking on a life of its own, and it doesn’t take long before you are seemingly unable to remember your original intentions. This usually leads to confusion and poor decision-making that moves you no closer to where you want to be. It’s no coincidence that Simon Sinek’s TED Talk, which outlined the importance of asking “why”, has become the cult classic it has. Yet walk into any office in the country, and it’s likely the person you find is working furiously has no idea why they’re doing what they’re doing. Sector jargon can affect your planning Every sector has its... Read More