Unexpected business advice that led to an early retirement

Retirement – especially early retirement – was the last thing on Michelle and Alan’s mind.

In the thick of running their business, dealing with the pressures of daily operations and the challenges of a global pandemic, they weren’t considering how to retire early and the idea of stepping away felt like something to figure out later, they were still so young after all.

But when their business accountant, Michelle Malcolm, saw a change in Alan she didn’t like, she trusted her instincts and encouraged them to meet with Craig Smith, a Findex financial advisor, just to explore their options.

That one conversation changed everything.

Because Michelle Malcolm knew her clients so well, she recognised a shift in Alan before he even said a word. Leveraging her network within Findex and her trust in Craig, she connected the Cookes with what they needed, and for the first time they could take a step back and see—not just numbers, but the life they had built and how they could plan to retire early.

But, early retirement, or knowing when to retire, isn’t just about numbers—it’s about timing, mindset, and having the confidence to take that next step.

The Cookes wanted to exit their business while they were still enjoying what they had built, rather than waiting until they were burnt out and left with nothing. Knowing how they could plan for retirement gave them the security to sell on their terms and set themselves up for the life they wanted.

Now, Michelle and Alan enjoy their semi-retired life, learning new skills, spending their days with family and friends, and travelling as much as they can. They’re embracing a new chapter they never thought would come so soon.

And they give full credit to the people they surround themselves with.

Michelle and Alan's story is proof that financial independence starts with one simple conversation. Whether it's business succession planning, early retirement or setting yourself up for financial freedom, good financial accounting and having the right financial advisor can make all the difference.