Lessons Learned from a lifetime in Financial Services

What a journey it has been!

I am just back from New York having won a Lifetime Achievement Award at the Stevie Women in Business Awards. For me this was an incredible honour, and it has given me a chance to reflect on the past 30 years as a financial advisor. I’m grateful, humbled, and more inspired than ever to keep pushing boundaries.?

When I began my career in financial services, I was stepping into a male-dominated industry where women’s voices were often underrepresented. At times, it felt like an uphill climb, but those challenges shaped me into the advisor and person I am today.

So, I thought it would be good to share some of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned along the way:?

1. Education empowers action

I cannot stress enough that financial literacy changes lives. Early in my career, I saw how daunting financial decisions could be for many, especially women. That realisation became a driving force behind my mission to empower others with the knowledge they need to make informed decisions. This passion eventually inspired the creation of She Can Prosper , a platform dedicated to encouraging women to take control of their financial futures.?

2. Trust is the cornerstone of success

My role as a financial advisor’s role goes beyond numbers; it’s about building trust. People come to me with their dreams, challenges, and vulnerabilities, and it’s a privilege to guide them. Transparency, empathy, and honesty have been the foundation of every client relationship I’ve nurtured.?

?3. Adaptability is key

When I started my business the technology we have today didn’t exist. The financial world is ever-changing and there have been so many technological advancements. I’ve embraced change not as a challenge but as an opportunity to grow and deliver even better outcomes for my clients.? And if I need help managing my business, I have always found the best people to help support me. You cannot be an expert in everything and outsourcing and employing those who have specialisms I have needed along the way has been key to my success.

4. Community is everything

One of the most fulfilling aspects of my journey has been giving back. I have worked with and raised money for some incredible charities like Maggie’s Yorkshire, Smart Works and the Yorkshire Children’s Charity. I’ve seen the power of community in action. Success isn’t just about personal achievements it’s about lifting others as you climb.?I always remind people to do what they can to support local projects and charities. It something I am so passionate about. ?

5. Celebrating wins

While milestones like this Global Lifetime Achievement Award are momentous, I’ve learned to celebrate the small wins, too. Whether it’s a client achieving a financial goal or seeing women take their first steps toward financial independence, these moments remind me why I do what I do.?For example, I love being a sponsor for the Best Business Women Awards and championing other women and it has been incredible presenting the Businesswoman of the Decade award this year.

Reflecting on my lifetime achievement award

When I look back its important to share my appreciation to my parents as my journey began with them. ?Albert and Doris, were two inspiring guides who encouraged and taught me how to be a financially secure woman. They showed me the reason why being financially independent opens the door to the freedom to live life on my terms.

My children Hannah and Luke were the reason I chose to follow my dream of running my own business and creating financial prosperity for us all. They are the next generation in my family to be following in my footsteps, creating their own financial futures.

As I reflect on over 30 years in financial services, I’m incredibly proud of how far I’ve come, and I know there’s still so much more to achieve. This award isn’t just a recognition of the past; it’s a motivator for the future.

To every woman aspiring to break barriers, to every entrepreneur building their dream, and to anyone ready to take control of their finances: you’ve got this.?

Here’s to the next chapter and to continuing the journey together.?

If you need helping planning your financial future get in touch.

I would love to know the lessons you have learnt on your business journey so do share, as this helps people to learn from each other.

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