In 2015, I took part in what is known as a “white-collar boxing” event.
If you’re unfamiliar with it, white-collar boxing is designed for city workers, often with little or no sporting background, who step into a boxing ring having just spent three months training—all in the name of fundraising for charity.
The event takes place during a black-tie dinner, cheered on by tables full of friends.
The organisers carefully match opponents to create a fair and entertaining contest.
From day one, you’re taught what good, safe boxing looks like—it’s not about knocking someone’s head off, just a bit of fun that pushes you to challenge yourself.
The event I participated in was part of Ultra White Collar Boxing, which has now raised more than £60 million for Cancer Research UK—a phenomenal achievement.
It was a brilliant experience—something I enjoyed from start to finish.
But what has stayed with me most wasn’t the fight night; it was how nervous I felt walking to my very first training session.
I remember getting off the Tube at Bethnal Green and making my way towards KO Boxing Club, feeling genuinely anxious.
I signed up not knowing a soul, and for a brief moment, I even thought about turning back.
But at that moment, I thought about what I always tell our Barnaby Cecil clients:
growth happens at the edge of discomfort.
If I couldn't follow my own advice, how could I genuinely help others push past their financial anxieties?
That realisation was enough to spur me on, and I pushed open the doors to a whole new experience that came with an important lesson that I would carry into every client meeting thereafter.
That memory often comes back to me when I reflect on what we aim to do at Barnaby Cecil.
The idea behind the WealthMap® service is to give you the confidence to live your version of a great life—and help provide you with the tools to make it happen.
Even with a great plan, you need something more, like someone in your corner pushing you forward, especially when you’re stepping into something new and uncertain.
A client recently told me about their ambition to complete the Annapurna Circuit—a gruelling, high-altitude trek that’s challenging even for accomplished endurance athletes.
Their goal got me thinking—what sets Barnaby Cecil apart from other financial services firms is that we aren’t just helping you plan for these ambitions; we are standing alongside you while you pursue them.
It doesn't mean I’ll trek the Annapurna Circuit with you (my Atlantic rowing training may have something to say about that), but perhaps I could join you for a few acclimatisation hikes in the Peak District or help you plan your logistics, kit, and preparation.
And it's not just physical challenges; if you need help getting started on any project, we're here in whatever form that takes.
Maybe you’ve always wanted to take a pottery class, join a choir, or learn a new language, but just need a bit of encouragement, a sounding board, or even someone to join you at that very first session.
Emma and I want you to know: we’re here for that too.
At Barnaby Cecil, we’re not just about managing your wealth.
We’re here encouraging you to live boldly—and making sure you never have to take that first step alone.
Because your WealthMap® isn’t just a plan—it’s your blueprint for living life by design.
Copy here introducing the client stories section and examples of testimonials
