Finding Purpose in Retirement: An Encore Career for Whole-Person Well-Being

Retirement can be a thrilling chapter, yet for many, it brings a sense of emptiness. After years of work that define purpose, rhythm, and even self-worth, moving into retirement isn’t just about budgeting or relocating; it’s about building a new identity. For some, that might mean finding an "encore career"—work that doesn’t feel like work, … Continue reading Finding Purpose in Retirement: An Encore Career for Whole-Person Well-Being

Keep Your Retirement on Track: National Pension Tracing Day is Here!

This Sunday, 27 October, marks National Pension Tracing Day—a timely reminder to reconnect with any “lost” pensions you may have. According to the latest report by the Pensions Policy Institute (PPI), there are nearly 3.3 million pension pots—worth a staggering £31.1 billion—that have become “lost” or “disconnected” from their owners. With the average disconnected pot … Continue reading Keep Your Retirement on Track: National Pension Tracing Day is Here!

Financial Planning is NOT Needs and Shortfall Analysis

Financial Planning is NOT Needs and Shortfall Analysis There’s a version of “financial planning” that dominates the financial services industry, but let’s be clear: this is not real financial planning. What I’m talking about is a relic from the insurance sales methods of the 1980s, where the sole focus was selling products under the guise … Continue reading Financial Planning is NOT Needs and Shortfall Analysis

Retirement Planning for Women: Why Both Financial and Human Capital Matter

Retirement planning isn’t just about building a robust financial nest egg. It’s about preparing for a fulfilling, purposeful life after work—a life that involves both financial capital and human capital. For women, in particular, this broader approach is vital, as they often face greater challenges in securing financial independence for retirement. Understanding these two sides … Continue reading Retirement Planning for Women: Why Both Financial and Human Capital Matter

Are Pensions the Best Route to Planning a Successful Retirement?

When it comes to retirement planning, pensions have long been viewed as a cornerstone. But are they really the most secure or efficient route? A worrying statistic reveals that 1 in 5 people have lost track of at least one pension pot. That raises questions: are pensions the best way to secure a financially stable … Continue reading Are Pensions the Best Route to Planning a Successful Retirement?

Navigating the Changes to the Professional Footballers’ Pension Scheme: Why Financial Planning is More Crucial Than Ever

Welcome to the Academy of Life Planning, where we guide you not just in saving for your future, but in building a life of purpose, financial security, and sustainable growth. As we delve into the recent changes to the Professional Footballers' Pension Scheme, it's clear that proactive financial planning is more important than ever. Understanding … Continue reading Navigating the Changes to the Professional Footballers’ Pension Scheme: Why Financial Planning is More Crucial Than Ever

Why Some of Us Choose Never to Retire – and How Human Capital Development is the Key to Financial Security

More and more people are deciding that retirement isn’t for them. In fact, a recent survey revealed that 1 in 10 workers in Britain don’t plan to retire at all. Among those who have decided to keep working, around 50% say it’s out of financial necessity, while 42% simply prefer to stay active in their … Continue reading Why Some of Us Choose Never to Retire – and How Human Capital Development is the Key to Financial Security

The Significance of the Longevity Illustrator in Life Planning

As we navigate the intricate paths of life planning, one of the pivotal aspects that demands our attention is understanding our longevity. This understanding forms the bedrock of effective financial planning, ensuring that resources are not only sufficient but optimally allocated to sustain us throughout our lifetime. The Actuaries Longevity Illustrator, developed by the American … Continue reading The Significance of the Longevity Illustrator in Life Planning

Beware the Pension Pitfall: When DIY Turns to Disaster

Listen up, folks! Your pension pot is probably your single biggest investment, and who wouldn't want to take control of that? But, before you get all giddy about self-invested personal pensions (Sipps) putting you "in the driving seat," let me hit the brakes and steer you back to reality. Just ask Stuart James. One minute, … Continue reading Beware the Pension Pitfall: When DIY Turns to Disaster

Reimagining Retirement: Why Gen X Should Look Beyond Traditional Investments

As the oldest members of Generation X (individuals born between the years 1965 and 1980) approach the milestone of 60 next year, the reality of retirement looms large. The recent Natixis Global Survey of Individual Investors highlights the financial anxieties this cohort faces. Nearly half of Gen Xers surveyed believe it will take a miracle … Continue reading Reimagining Retirement: Why Gen X Should Look Beyond Traditional Investments