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Is ‘financial independence’ a better option than retirement?

Retirement used to mean the end of working life, but that’s definitely no longer the case. People are living longer, staying healthier and keen to make the most of the time they have left . That’s where financial independence comes in.

What does financial independence mean?
Financial independence means having enough income from your assets, investments or part-time work to cover your desired lifestyle, without relying solely on a pension. It gives you the flexibility to keep working if you want to, or to pursue hobbies, travel, or even launch a second career. Essentially, it’s about choice, not just having enough to get by.

Rethinking retirement
The real goal of financial independence isn’t to stop working altogether, it’s to reach a point where working becomes optional. It’s about building a level of financial security where your investments and other income sources can comfortably support your lifestyle. Whether your income comes from rental properties, shares, or business interests, diversifying your income sources can help reduce reliance on any single pot of money, like your pension. The key is that your money is working for you, not the other way around.

Planning for freedom
Achieving financial independence takes careful planning. It means living within your means, saving and investi ng consistently, and having a clear idea of the life you want in later years and what that life will cost.  Whether you want to slow down or simply shift direction, financial independence gives you the power to choose.  We can help build a plan around your goals, ensuring you have the income and flexibility to live life on your terms, for as long into your later years as you want.

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Lynne Watson

Paraplanner

I have been working in the Financial Services industry for over 12 years joining the Bonum Wealth team part-time in June 2023 following a period of maternity leave.

I have a BSc(Hons) in Financial Mathematics from Glasgow Caledonian University and have previously studied towards my ACCA Accountancy and Diploma in Financial Planning Qualifications.

My role within the Bonum Wealth team is to conduct research, prepare client reports and work closely with our Planners to provide our clients with their bespoke financial plan.

Outside of work I like to spend time on the family farm along with my husband Stuart and three young children: James, Murray and Cara. I am also the treasurer of Coylton and Stair Farmers Society and help organise the running of the annual agricultural show and other events through-out the year.

e: lynne@bonumwealth.co.uk

Chris Scott

Client Support

I have been working for Bonum Wealth for over 2 years. I now hold the title of Client Support. As well as continuing to learn on the job, I am studying for my professional exams.

In my role as client support, I hope to continue learning the more technical aspects of financial planning and expanding my knowledge in this field.

In my spare time, I enjoy being at the gym, going for long walks, spending time with my friends, travelling, and exploring new places.

e: chris@bonumwealth.co.uk

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Jan Caldwell

Client Support

I started my career with Bank of Scotland, working in various locations in and around Glasgow. I achieved my banking qualifications early on which allowed me to progress to a professional Relationship Manager position looking after the needs of personal customers within the Bank’s Private Banking Service.

After many enjoyable years with the Bank, I decided to move on to Handelsbanken taking on an exciting new challenge when their first office opened in Scotland.

Since opting for a career change, I am now delighted to be part of the team at Bonum Wealth, assisting clients and the advisers with administrative tasks and ongoing client support.

In my free time I love to hill walk and go to the gym but my new passion is travelling in my Nissan Elgrand campervan conversion “Ella”.

e: jan@bonumwealth.co.uk

Cara Gilbert

Chartered Financial Planner

I have been working in the Financial Services industry for over 10 years. In July 2022, I successfully completed the CII’s Advanced Diploma in Financial Planning and now hold the title of Chartered Financial Planner. As part of my studies, I also achieved the Certificate in Paraplanning.

Prior to joining the Bonum Wealth team, I specialised predominately in pensions and enjoy using this expertise in my current role as an Adviser, as well as the financial planning skills I have learned during my time working alongside Stephen and Linda.

In my spare time, I enjoy taking part in various activities and as a food fanatic, I love cooking good food and dining out at the weekend. I also really enjoy exploring new places, especially when I am abroad and in the sunshine!

e: cara@bonumwealth.co.uk

Linda Gilbert

Director/Chartered Financial Planner

Chartered Financial Planner and member of The Society for Trust and Estate Practitioners. I deliver high-quality financial planning advice which makes a real difference for people.  

I have a wealth of experience in pension and investment management, working with clients to create tax efficient plans for their future and take great pleasure in seeing those plans evolve and come to fruition over the years. 

I work predominantly with wealth clients, providing appropriate financial solutions and long-term plans to meet their needs in their lifetime, as well estate planning solutions for that later day.

In my spare time I enjoy spending time with my family and keeping fit. At the weekend, its long lazy bike runs – which always involve a food stop!

e: linda@bonumwealth.co.uk

Stephen Grimes

Director/Chartered Financial Planner

Chartered Financial Planner and ACIBS (Associate of Chartered Institute of Bankers in Scotland). I have been delivering high-quality financial planning advice to clients for over 25 years.  

I have a wealth of experience in pension, investment management and corporate planning, working with clients to create tax efficient plans for their future. I enjoy spending time with clients at our review meetings to evaluate how the planning has helped them achieve their financial goals. 

I work predominantly with company directors and wealth clients, providing appropriate financial solutions and long-term plans to meet their needs now and in the future.

In my spare time I enjoy spending time at the gym, travelling and eating out. In the winter it’s all about skiing and planning the next trip to the Alps.

e: stephen@bonumwealth.co.uk