“Everybody does have a book in them, but in most cases that's where it should stay.”
⸻Christopher Hitchens.
I spend a lot of my time talking with retirees, and a common objective that comes up in financial planning is a desire to write a book.
And I say, go for it, we all have a story to tell.
If you have ever had an idea, a passion or a skill that lights you up, retirement might be the perfect time to explore it.
Retirement is a concept that conjures up images of long holidays, a slower pace, and well-deserved relaxation.
But for many of today’s retirees, it’s just the beginning of an exciting new chapter.
I see retirees who, after decades of working, have gained invaluable experience, developed critical skills and the freedom to do things they truly love.
Makes sense that retirement is the perfect time to channel all their wisdom, passion and freedom into something even more meaningful⸺a business.
If you are willing to pursue an idea that you love and care about, that you would do even if it wasn't for the money, you may have the perfect seed to start nurturing your next great adventure.
Starting a business later in life sounds daunting, but let’s break it down.
You don’t need to have all the technical aspects figured out, that’s where financial planners, like myself, come in.
If you have identified that spark, you might surprise yourself with what comes next.
Here are a couple of things to consider.
Start With What You’d Do for Free
Think about the activities you naturally gravitate towards, the things you’d happily spend hours on, without expecting a penny.
Maybe it’s gardening, woodworking, baking, or even sharing your knowledge through mentoring. It is these passions that can be the foundation of a terrific business idea.
If money were no object, what would you spend your days doing? That’s your starting point.
Now, imagine creating something from that passion.
Could you teach it to others or maybe turn it into a service or product?
In today’s connected world, almost anything can be monetised if done with purpose.
Monetise Your Passion Without Pressure
The beauty of starting a business in retirement is that it doesn’t have to be all or nothing.
You have the freedom to explore, test the waters, and see where your passion takes you.
You can start small, with little risk, and scale up as you see fit.
At this point, it isn’t just about making money—it’s about creating something that brings you joy, keeps you active, and gives you a sense of purpose.
Practical Steps—Leave the Technical Stuff to Us
You don’t need to worry about the technical or financial side of things right away.
Expert help can come in to support with setting up a business structure, handling tax, or navigating the complexities of business finances.
What’s most important is that you focus on the fun part: finding your passion and bringing it to life.
Don’t let the fear of the “what if” or the unknown hold you back.
Many retirees I have worked with who have taken the leap and started a business say they’ve never felt more energised or fulfilled.
Launching a new chapter in your retirement is an opportunity to stay connected, share your expertise, and continue to grow in a way that traditional retirement doesn’t always offer.
It’s Never Too Late to Start
Whether it’s consulting in the industry you’ve spent years mastering, launching an online shop, or offering coaching in a field you love, the possibilities are endless.
The world is full of opportunities for those brave enough to take the plunge—whether you’re 25 or 65.
So, take that idea you’ve always dreamed about and run with it.
We’ll be here to help guide you through the technicalities and ensure your business journey is as smooth and rewarding as possible.
The best part? This next chapter of your life is written entirely by you.
Copy here introducing the client stories section and examples of testimonials
