What do financial planners do? It’s probably not what you think
If you’ve ever imagined a financial planner as someone in a sharp suit talking about stocks and shares you’re not alone. Many people assume we’re like stockbrokers or salespeople, focused on investment performance or selling products. But that’s not what I do.
At Astute Financial Planning, I help people get financial clarity especially if they’ve just gone through something big like divorce, business change, or are approaching a major life milestone. I work alongside clients who want to feel more in control, less stressed, and confident about the life they’re building. My approach is personal, supportive and tailored to your unique journey because financial planning is about empowering you to live the life you want for yourself and your loved ones.
Scenario: What I actually do
Imagine we’re sitting down for a coffee and you ask me, “So, what do you actually do?”
Response: I help people understand their money and their options, so they can make decisions with confidence and build a life they truly want.
That might involve budgeting, planning ahead, reviewing pensions, retirement planning, or using tax allowances more efficiently but what I really do is listen.
I ask questions like:
- How did you get to where you are today?
- What matters most to you now?
- Which goals or dreams do you want to achieve?
- What worries you about the future?
This isn’t about selling you something. It’s about supporting you through change, navigating uncertainty, recognising opportunities and working together to create a plan that works for you.
Financial Planning isn’t just about the numbers
Many people think financial planning is all about investments. Or that they need to have everything “together” before coming to speak to someone like me.
In reality, financial planning especially when it’s lifestyle-led is about far more than just numbers. It’s about giving yourself permission to pause, reflect, and take decisive action.
And no, I’m not here to judge you. No question is too silly.
Real life, real impact: A client case study
A client came to me after a divorce, feeling overwhelmed and unsure about his financial future. He hadn’t worked to a budget before and wasn’t used to being in full control of his finances.
We had open, honest conversations, not about spreadsheets, but about how he was living now and what he wanted life to look like moving forward.
Together, we created a cashflow plan and looked at how his money could work harder through better use of tax allowances. He discovered that financial planning isn’t about creating restrictions, it’s about creating freedom.
He told me later he felt more in control, more relaxed, and reassured knowing I was involved. And the thank-you hug? That said it all.
So, what makes my approach different?
Where some financial planners might start by talking about products, I start by talking about you.
- What motivates you?
- What keeps you up at night?
- What kind of life do you want to build for yourself and the people you love?
Everything else flows from there. My role is to bring structure, accountability, and calm to what can often feel like a chaotic time in life. You don’t need to know all the answers, you just need to be willing to start the conversation.
Summary
At Astute Financial Planning, I help people feel financially secure, emotionally supported, and ready to make decisions with confidence. Yes, we’ll talk numbers but more importantly, we’ll talk life. Whether you need help planning your financial future, navigating a specific challenge, or simply want to explore your options, I’m here to support you.
Tax Planning is not regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority
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If you would like to arrange a meeting with Sarah, please complete the attached form you can schedule in a 15 minute initial telephone call.