Do I need a Financial Planner: Investing on your own

Managing your wealth is a milestone worth celebrating, whatever stage of life or career you’re in. As your finances and goals grow in complexity, you might wonder: should I keep managing my investments alone, or is it time to seek guidance from a financial planner?

Here’s what to consider as you take the next step in your investment journey.

Can I Invest on my Own: The Value of Professional Financial Advice

Anyone can invest on their own, just like anyone can sing. But not everyone can sing well. 

Choosing to manage your investments yourself can feel empowering! You’re in the driver’s seat, making every decision directly. You feel confident and you are excited for the outcomes. 

Yet, the sheer volume of information, market shifts, and changing regulations can make it difficult to know if you’re on the right track. A lack of professional understanding can have devastating effects on your investments, superannuation and overall financial position.

Seeking independent financial advice can help cut through the noise, giving you a clear, unbiased view of your options. It ensures that all recommendations are focused on your goals—no hidden agendas, just clarity and transparency.

Enquire with an independent financial planner

If you decide to invest by yourself, rather than using a Financial Planner, make sure to consider the following questions:

• Do you have enough financial literacy to understand and keep up with markets as they evolve?
• Have you assessed your personal tolerance to risk, and is this reflected in your investment options?
• Are you diversifying your investment options?
• Do you understand your financial goals, and are they clear and achievable?
• Are you able to follow a plan and keep yourself accountable?
• Do you understand that emotions affect decision making? Are your emotions likely to impact your reactiveness to sell if markets take a turn? 

Taking the time to reflect on these questions can help you determine whether you’re ready to invest independently or whether guidance from a qualified professional could make a positive difference. Ultimately, the best approach is the one that leaves you feeling informed, confident, and in control of your financial journey.

Investing on your own VS The role of a Financial Planner

Investing on your own means taking full ownership of your financial decisions, from understanding changing markets to developing a disciplined strategy and setting achievable goals. It takes initiative and resilience to stay informed and make unbiased choices, especially when emotions run high.

By contrast, working with a Financial Planner provides not only expert knowledge in investment strategies, portfolio diversification, risk management, and more, but also a comprehensive plan tailored to your needs. They help you focus on your long-term goals, ensure you’re diversified, and guide you through periods of uncertainty with objective advice—so your investment journey stays on track and aligned with what matters most to you.

How an Independent Financial Planner keeps you on track

When to sell shares is a question that often arises during periods of market volatility. It’s natural for emotions to run high when markets take a turn, and it can be tempting to sell your shares. That’s when an independent Financial Planner really shines, offering a steady hand and helping you stay committed to your long-term strategy, regardless of market noise. Because independent planners aren’t tied to specific products or commissions, their guidance remains solely focused on your best interests—so you can invest with confidence.

Financial Advice for Retirement Planning

Whether retirement feels years away or right around the corner, planning ahead makes all the difference. Retirement planning with a financial planner means more than picking investments—it’s about aligning your superannuation, managing cash flow, and building a reliable income stream for life after work. A planner can help you weigh decisions, reduce uncertainty, and make the most of each opportunity.

Making Confident Choices at Every Stage

Personal wealth management isn’t one-size-fits-all. High-achieving professionals often need to balance career, family, and life goals—so having the right support can make a real difference. Working with a financial planner means having a partner who can offer holistic advice, guide you through complex transitions, and check in regularly to make sure your investment approach still fits your evolving life.

In Conclusion

There’s no simple answer to the question of whether you should invest on your own or seek out a financial planner —everyone’s needs, experiences, and comfort levels with markets are different. What truly matters is understanding where you stand, both financially and personally.

While investing on your own offers autonomy and control over investment decisions, partnering with a financial firm provides access to professional expertise, personalized strategies, and disciplined portfolio management.

Before deciding, it can be valuable to speak with a professional simply to get a clearer picture of your financial position and possible pathways forward. This initial conversation can offer clarity and empower you to make choices that suit your goals and lifestyle. 

Whether you're planning for retirement, managing superannuation, or seeking to grow your wealth as a business owner, our team is dedicated to helping you achieve your financial aspirations with confidence. Contact Strategy First Financial Planning today to explore how investing with a financial planner can optimize your investment journey and secure your financial future.

Gain clarity. Achieve goals. Invest wisely with Strategy First Financial Planning.