Jack’s Money Journey

Hi, I’m Jack 👋 and welcome to my corner of the internet.

I’m from the North of England and a dad to two little legends — Miles (4) and Lara (2). They’re the reason I’m here, writing this blog. Because for me, money isn’t about flashy cars or bragging rights — it’s about freedom, family, and building a life where my kids have opportunities I never did.

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⚡ From Electrician to Asset Surveyor

For years, I worked as an electrician. It was solid work, but it came at a cost: I was out every weekend, never home when the kids were awake, and constantly knackered.

Recently, I made the leap to a new career — mobile asset surveying. Honestly, it’s been a tough switch. Going from tools to spreadsheets is no joke, especially with dyslexia making reports harder than they should be. But here’s the thing: now I get weekends off. I get a day a week working from home. I actually get time with my family. And that’s worth every challenge.

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💰 Growing Up and Growing Wiser

I grew up on a council estate until I was 12. My parents didn’t have loads of money, but they grafted hard and saved smart so me and my sister never went without. That’s where I first learned the value of money — not in spending it, but in how you manage it.

As an adult, I haven’t always got it right. My biggest mistake? Cars on finance. Shiny new motors that felt affordable at the time but ended up holding me back. It’s money I wish I’d invested instead.

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📊 Where I Am Today

I’m not rich, but I’m not standing still either. Right now:

• 💳 I’m paying £700/month off debt (3 years left).
• 📈 I’ve got £7,100 in my Stocks & Shares ISA.
• 🏦 I’ve built up about £10,000 in my private pension (5% contributions + employer match).

It’s not life-changing money yet, but it’s a foundation. And the plan is simple: clear debt, grow investments, and play the long game.

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🎯 The Big Dream

So what’s the goal? Financial freedom.

• A nicer home for my family.
• The ability to retire early.
• Help my mam retire; she’s grafted her whole life and deserves a rest.

That’s why I started this blog — to keep myself accountable, share my journey, and hopefully help a few others along the way.

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✅ What to Expect Here

This won’t be polished, corporate money advice. It’ll be a mix of:

• Real talk about my financial wins and mistakes.
• Family life and how money fits into it.
• Practical posts on debt, pensions, ISAs, and investing (in plain English).
• My ongoing updates — actual numbers, not vague “trust the process” stuff.
• And the lessons I pick up from books, side hustles, and trial-and-error.

I’m just a normal bloke figuring out money in the real world — and if that sounds like your thing, stick around.