Ever notice how the deeper you dive into something, the more complicated it seems to get?

At first, most concepts feel simple. Take supply and demand - you can get the gist of it in minutes. But once you add interest rates, inflation, trade relations… suddenly it’s a rabbit hole of complexity.

But if you keep going, things actually start to feel simple again. The noise fades. You see the few things that really matter. It’s like peeling an onion - you push past the messy layers and finally get to the core.

I’ve been studying finance since around 2011, and over the years I’ve taken countless exams and gone through a lot of complex material. But the more I study and deepen my understanding of the subject, the simpler it starts to feel again. I’ve unlearned many of the unnecessary complexities and learned to distill the discipline down to the few key principles that really matter.

True simplicity comes from a deep understanding and appreciation for the subject matter. When shared, this simplicity allows the rest of us to make sense of the world without becoming an expert in every field.

The best teachers and writers do this brilliantly. Think of Richard Feynman making physics funny and accessible. He didn’t dumb things down - he just understood them so deeply that he could strip away everything unnecessary.

The opposite also happens. Complexity is often used to confuse. To keep people reliant on “experts.” And the financial world? Oh, it's one of the worst.

We’re told money is impossibly complex. We’re bombarded with financial jargon, endless products, and scary headlines that make us feel like we’ll never get it right. But the truth is, money doesn’t have to be complicated.

If there’s one lesson history has taught us about financial markets, it’s that a few timeless truths will always hold. Once you approach every new crisis with these principles in mind, the world starts to look far less complicated.

A true understanding of money isn’t just about wealth - it’s about clarity. It allows you to see your own situation more clearly and make decisions that align with the life you want to live.

At its core, the best financial strategies are built on a handful of simple, enduring principles:

• Spend less than you earn

• Invest for the future

• Keep cash for the short term

• Understand compounding

• Stay disciplined and patient

   

That’s it. Not flashy. Not complicated. But powerful.

From these basics, an entire financial plan can be built - one that balances today’s needs with tomorrow’s goals, guided by an understanding of markets, patience, and discipline.

Many people find this process easier with the support of a thoughtful financial adviser - someone who can educate, encourage, and hold them accountable. Products might play a role, but they should always serve you, not the other way around.

Sadly, in the world of finance, complexity is often mistaken for intelligence. People assume that something complicated must be more sophisticated - when in reality, the opposite is true.

The real tragedy is that many don’t realise simplicity is even an option. They’re sold complexity and confusion, which leads to overwhelm, disengagement, and ultimately, poor long-term outcomes.

Simplicity in action is powerful. When clients take ownership of their finances, they begin to see clearly how each choice today shapes the life they’ll live tomorrow.

So, here’s the question for you:

Where in your financial life - or even beyond it - could you simplify?

What noise could you strip away to focus on the few things that truly matter? 🩷

Disclaimer Time: The information contained in this post is provided for general information and educational purposes only and does not constitute personal financial advice or a recommendation. The content should not be relied upon when making investment or financial decisions. You should consider seeking independent financial advice based on your specific circumstances before making any financial decisions.