How to Build a Retirement Plan That’s Not Just About the Numbers

Why peace of mind, purpose and flexibility matter just as much as the pension pot

When people talk about retirement planning, it usually comes down to one question: How much is enough? And while the numbers – your pension value, investment income, and expected expenses — are vital, they’re only part of the picture.

At FTA Financial & Wealth Management, we believe the best retirement plans don’t just look good on paper. They align with your lifestyle, values, and the life you want to lead – not just the life you can afford.

Here’s how to build a retirement plan that’s more than a spreadsheet.

1. Start With Vision, Not a Calculator

Before diving into numbers, ask yourself:

• What do I want my retirement to look and feel like?
• Do I want to stop completely, or gradually reduce hours?
• What activities, people, or places do I want more of in my life?

Many healthcare professionals spend decades in high-responsibility roles. Retirement is a chance to reclaim time – but only if it’s designed intentionally.

Top tip: Write down your ideal day, week, and year in retirement. It’s a powerful way to bring clarity to your financial goals.

2. Make the Money Work Around You

Once you know what you want, your financial adviser can help you figure out what it will take to fund it – factoring in:

• Pension income (NHS, private/ SIPP)
• Investment income or drawdown strategies
• Sale of a business or practice
• Property or rental income
• Savings, ISAs, and other assets

But instead of chasing a number like £1 million, the focus becomes: What income do I need to support the life I want – without stress?

3. Factor in Flexibility and Peace of Mind

Retirement isn’t static. You may have active years full of travel and hobbies, followed by quieter years. Health may change. Family dynamics shift. The plan needs to adapt with you.

That’s why a strong retirement plan should include:

• Cashflow modelling to forecast multiple “what-if” scenarios
• Contingency funds for unexpected costs or market downturns
• Tax planning to ensure you’re not giving away more than necessary
• Regular reviews to adjust as life unfolds

The goal isn’t just wealth – it’s control and confidence.

4. Consider the Emotional Side of Retirement

Leaving a career – especially in healthcare – can be emotionally complex. Identity, routine, and purpose are deeply rooted in your work. The best retirement plans acknowledge this and create a sense of direction for what comes next.

Some clients choose to:

• Mentor younger professionals
• Volunteer in health or community roles
• Start new businesses or passion projects
• Travel with purpose or join causes that matter to them

Money gives you options – but it’s your values that give it meaning.

Final Thought: Retirement Planning Is Life Planning

At FTA Financial & Wealth Management, we take a whole-person approach to retirement planning. Yes, we run the numbers. But more importantly, we listen to what you actually want your future to be and then build a plan that helps you get there.

Because when retirement is built around you, not just your bank balance, it becomes something worth looking forward to.

Let’s build your retirement plan – together.

Whether you’re 5, 10, or 20 years from retirement, now is the right time to start shaping a future that reflects both your financial goals and your personal vision.