A GAME Plan for Britain: Unlocking Growth Through Purpose and People

The UK Government has set its sights on economic growth, an ambition I fully support. However, the approach currently being pursued—one that relies heavily on the financial sector’s guidance—will not deliver the outcomes we need. Growth isn’t achieved through short-term financial engineering or a deregulated banking system; instead, it stems from long-term investment in human … Continue reading A GAME Plan for Britain: Unlocking Growth Through Purpose and People

Why Retirement Planners Must Consider Human Capital Alongside Financial Capital

Retirement is no longer the full stop it once was. Increasingly, retirees are returning to work—not just for financial reasons, but also for social fulfilment and purpose. New research from Standard Life reveals that one in seven retirees has ‘unretired’ or is considering doing so. This trend highlights the crucial role that financial planners must … Continue reading Why Retirement Planners Must Consider Human Capital Alongside Financial Capital

The Truth About Financial Psychology: Are You Investing in Your True Self?

In the world of financial advice, there’s a fundamental flaw—one that’s been hidden behind tick-box compliance and industry-approved psychometric tests. The issue? Most financial advice isn’t based on what’s truly in your best interest. Instead, it reflects a version of you that has been shaped by years of parental conditioning, cultural beliefs, and psychological misconceptions—your … Continue reading The Truth About Financial Psychology: Are You Investing in Your True Self?

Financial Coaching vs. Financial Planning: Which Path Will You Take?

When it comes to financial well-being, there are two distinct but equally important approaches: financial coaching and financial planning. Both serve different needs, focus on different aspects of life, and require different mindsets from professionals who choose to offer them. Financial Coaching: Building Stability and Security Financial coaching is about helping people meet their basic … Continue reading Financial Coaching vs. Financial Planning: Which Path Will You Take?

Discover Your Favourite Future with the Academy’s GAME Plan

At the Academy of Life Planning, we believe that everyone deserves to live a life filled with purpose, security, and significance. That’s why we’ve developed the GAME Plan—a simple, empowering framework to help you chart a values-led, purpose-driven path to a brighter future. Let’s break it down together. G is for Goals Everything starts with … Continue reading Discover Your Favourite Future with the Academy’s GAME Plan

Rethinking the UK’s Growth Agenda: Why Banking Alone Isn’t Enough

The UK Government’s focus on UK capital markets as a driver for economic growth raises important questions. While banking is a cornerstone of the economy, relying heavily on it risks overlooking opportunities in faster-growing, innovation-driven sectors. Here's what bankers are sharing with the government, shaping the direction of their "growth agenda": Losing our place as … Continue reading Rethinking the UK’s Growth Agenda: Why Banking Alone Isn’t Enough

The Hidden Tax Raid on Pensions: What You Need to Know

Recent changes to inheritance tax (IHT) rules on unused pension funds have created a quiet storm, but the impact could be catastrophic for many pensioners. From 2027, unused defined contribution (DC) pension funds inherited after the age of 75 will no longer be exempt from IHT. This has profound implications for retirees and their families, … Continue reading The Hidden Tax Raid on Pensions: What You Need to Know

The Next Plot Twist: Transforming Your Career as a Holistic Financial Planner

Imagine this: owning a financial planning firm where you do what you love every day—helping people solve life’s problems and live their best lives. A practice free from the hassle, constraints, or high costs of running a regulated product intermediation business. You focus solely on what truly matters: making a difference in people’s lives. That … Continue reading The Next Plot Twist: Transforming Your Career as a Holistic Financial Planner

The Pros and Cons of Taking Money from Your Pension Pot

Taking money from your pension pot at the age of 55 might seem like a tempting prospect. After all, it’s your hard-earned savings, and the freedom to access it early can feel empowering. But before making any decisions, it’s important to understand the potential benefits and risks involved. Let’s explore the pros and cons to … Continue reading The Pros and Cons of Taking Money from Your Pension Pot

Transforming Lives in El Salvador: Addressing Income Inequality through Life Crafting and Positive Financial Planning

El Salvador, a nation known for its resilience, faces a critical challenge—bridging the gap between poverty and prosperity. Through the innovative integration of Life Crafting and Positive Financial Planning (PFP), guided by the PERMAH model for well-being, a transformative programme is setting the stage to empower individuals and create a sustainable economic impact. A Holistic … Continue reading Transforming Lives in El Salvador: Addressing Income Inequality through Life Crafting and Positive Financial Planning