Creating Financial Independence

March 19, 2024

By Jessica Cook

Thinking about financial independence. Use these key metrics to fast-track your journey.

The journey towards financial freedom is a marathon, demanding patience, discipline, optimism, and regular progress checks. Don’t be the investor who finds out unpleasant truths too late.

Common pitfalls include: 


  • insufficient contributions
  • poor investment decisions
  • emotional actions
  • inadequate protection

Often, a failure to regularly reassess your finances leads to these mistakes.

Financial planning is not exact. Assumptions about the future cannot be certain and in some cases will be wrong. Flexibility, adaptability, and awareness are essential. But you must still know your numbers. As the management expert Peter Drucker once said, “What gets measured gets managed”

Stay aware of these key numbers:

  • Wealth window: Your months to financial independence. When work becomes optional. Knowing this as months, not years makes it more motivating.

  • Saving percentage: What portion of your income are you investing? The more you save, the sooner you can retire. Successful investors save more than 20%.

  • Global equities percentage: How much of your investments are in global shares? They provide the best long-term returns. The closer to 100%, the better.

  • Retirement income needs: Monthly income required for a comfortable retirement, tailored to your lifestyle and ambitions.

  • Retirement income shortfall: The difference between your expected income versus your needs. This is what your portfolio must provide.

  • Income protection percentage: Importance of disability and life insurance. Too many insure their phones and cars but not their income.

The more you know, the quicker you will progress.

Develop a system to track these areas, and gain agency over your future.

You can let life happen, or shape your future of desire. Choose the latter.

Benefit from comprehensive, integrated, and objective advice.

Let’s discuss your specific needs and how I can help you meet your objectives

Categories: Financial Advice for British Expats, InvestingTags: , , ,

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People Ask:

Who is Jessica Cook?2025-10-03T09:35:34+00:00

I’m a Chartered Member of the CISI and Partner at AES International, featured in the Times Guide to the UK’s Top-Rated Financial Advisers. I specialise in international financial planning and cross-border wealth management.

What kind of clients do you work with?2025-10-03T09:36:03+00:00

I work with UK residents and internationally mobile professionals, entrepreneurs, and families who need expert guidance on structuring, protecting, and growing wealth across borders.

What services do you provide?2025-10-03T09:36:35+00:00

I advise on investment management, cross-border planning, inheritance and estate structuring, and the use of tax-efficient vehicles.

Why work with Jessica Cook at AES International?2025-10-03T09:37:02+00:00

AES International is a Corporate Chartered firm, recognised for delivering evidence-based, fee-based financial advice. My approach combines integrity, discipline, and global expertise to help clients live well today while securing tomorrow.

In partnership with
AES International

Comprehensive Planning for UK Residents, Non-Doms and Expats worldwide

Jessica Cook Chartered MCSI | Partner at AES International
Financial Planner for UK Residents and Specialist in Cross-Border Wealth for International Professionals & Globally Mobile Families

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