From modest beginnings to early retirement, Mike and Sian have built a strong financial future by staying committed to ethical investing and smart saving. Here their adviser, Olivia Bowen, introduces the couple and how they’ve managed to plan for an early retirement with confidence.
Background
“Mike and Sián became clients of mine in 2002. Back then, they were mid-level earners with a modest mortgage and wanted to retire in their late 50s or early 60s. Both had reasonable savings and pensions in place, but they also wanted their investments to reflect their ethical values.”
Over the years, Olivia helped them to steadily grow their savings and investments, always staying true to their values. Today, they’re close to retiring early and comfortably.
Solution
“To support their plans towards an early retirement, I helped them set up regular savings into pensions and ISAs, and investing some of their money into ethical funds.
I also advised on income protection and life cover for their mortgage. As their income grew, I guided them to save more rather than spend more – although they’ve always been prudent with money and had an instinct to save. Some clients find this easier than others, but our advice is always the same!”
Over time, Olivia helped them balance mortgage repayments with investment growth, and gave ongoing advice on tax relief, fund choices, and ethical investing.
Outcome
By saving consistently and investing ethically, in alignment with their values, Mike and Sián are now ready to retire when the time is right and live the life they’ve worked hard for.
“Sian and Mike have now successfully paid off their mortgage and have grown their investments significantly, despite market ups and downs.
This has enabled Sián to start her own coaching business, Sian Taylor Coaching Ltd, and Mike to leave a career in corporate IT take an opportunity working in the social housing sector, more aligned to his values.
Alongside this, the couple have been able to renovate their home and adopt a number of additions to be more energy-efficient. They continue to invest ethically and regularly give to their chosen charities, including WWF and NSPCC.
Sian and Mike are on track to retire in 7 years with a comfortable income, to maintain their lifestyle which includes a dedicated travel budget.
“They originally hoped to be able to retire in their late 50s or early 60s, and it’s so satisfying to see that plan come to fruition.”
Olivia is now helping them plan for inheritance tax and, as an unmarried couple, she is also encouraging them to consider a civil partnership or marriage to protect their assets.
“It’s been a pleasure advising them for so many years, and I’m looking forward to seeing what they get up to once they retire – I might even get a wedding invitation!”
To learn more about Sian Taylor coaching please visit Sian Taylor Coaching Ltd.
