Insights from the Your Power Decade Conference 2024 Panel Discussion
Stepping into a new decade is a time to reflect, reprioritise, and reimagine what truly matters. For many women, this phase brings a renewed focus on securing their financial and legal futures—laying the groundwork for confidence and empowerment. At the Your Power Decade Conference 2024, a standout session on financial and legal empowerment brought these themes to life, featuring insights from Lucy Taylor, Partner at Evelyn Partners, and Suzanne Mynors, Partner at Russell-Cooke Solicitors.
With a room full of inspirational women, the panellists unpacked the liberating power of clarity, preparation, and confidence. Below, we share highlights from this impactful discussion, which resonated with attendees and continues to inspire action.
Why is it essential to clearly understand our priorities and goals as we enter a new decade of our lives?
Lucy Taylor:
Financial scaffolding is the foundation of feeling secure. Over the years, I’ve learnt to give myself “permission” to prioritise self-care, whether that’s tackling financial tasks, indulging in small joys, or spending time with people who energise me. Building beneficial habits—though imperfect—is vital for managing change, which is an inevitable part of life.
As I mentioned during the session, a quote from Harry Potter stayed with me:
“To the well-organised mind, death is but the next great adventure.”
While we can’t predict the future, we can prepare for it. Life brings regulatory, economic, and personal shifts, and helping clients feel confident about navigating change is one of the most rewarding aspects of my work.
At Evelyn Partners, we encourage women to step back from life’s demands and explore their options. When your priorities and goals are clear, you’re better equipped to embrace the unexpected and build the future you envision.
Suzanne Mynors:
The classic question, “Where do you want to be in five or ten years?” The classic question, “Where do you want to be in five or ten years?” The classic question, “Where do you want to be in five or ten years?” remains powerful because it forces us to consider what matters most and how to align today’s decisions with tomorrow’s aspirations.
The unexpected can often bring the most joy, but it can also cause the greatest challenges. That’s why preparation is essential. Having trusted advisors—whether legal, financial, or both—is like working with a personal trainer. At first, getting your affairs in order may feel daunting or even emotional, but the long-term peace of mind it brings is invaluable.
When your priorities are clear and your plans are solid, you build a firm foundation that allows you to embrace life with greater confidence.
How can women take control and feel more agency in both their financial and personal lives?
Lucy Taylor:
So much of our time is spent being someone else’s daughter, mother, or partner that we often forget to ask, What about me? Taking control starts with asking that question and addressing your needs.
It can feel uncomfortable, but once you focus on yourself, the basics are clear: understanding income vs. expenditure and assets vs. liabilities. From there, you can start working on what you really want, which is often the harder part—dealing with dreams, fears, and emotions.
Empowering yourself financially is not just about numbers. It’s about confidence, clarity, and knowing that you have the right support behind you to navigate whatever comes your way.
Suzanne Mynors:
Control begins with preparation. Life happens to all of us, and while we can’t predict the future, we can plan for it. Completing a will, setting up a Lasting Power of Attorney, or revisiting previous decisions gives you peace of mind and clarity.
It’s also essential to find trusted advisors who truly understand your situation. Often, a personal recommendation is the most effective, but it’s crucial to avoid taking shortcuts. Cheap advice may cost far more in the long term, with unexpected tax liabilities or complex legal issues that could have been avoided with proper guidance.
Investing time and effort in your financial and legal security frees you to focus on what truly matters—your goals, relationships, and dreams.
People often describe financial freedom as liberating—can you share personal or professional experiences that highlight this feeling?
Lucy Taylor:
Financial empowerment is transformative. I’ve seen its magic time and again in my work. For women especially, having financial independence—what I call a “running away fund”—is essential. Even if you never need to use it, knowing it’s there brings immense peace of mind.
Taking control of your finances isn’t just about securing your future; it’s about ensuring that your power stays in your hands. When you empower yourself, you also set an example for the next generation, showing them the importance of independence and confidence.
Suzanne Mynors:
Financial freedom isn’t just about the money you have—it’s about the confidence to use it to shape your life. By making informed decisions now, you can prevent issues later and focus on what brings you joy and fulfilment.
Having your affairs in order doesn’t just provide security; it allows you to dream bigger, pursue your goals, and build the life you want without fear or hesitation.
The Your Power Decade Experience: A Platform for Transformation
The session sparked meaningful discussions and inspired attendees to take action. Here’s what some of them had to say:
“Had a wonderful time at the Really Helpful Club conference ‘Your Power Decade,’ talking to a room full of inspirational and interesting women about the liberating power of feeling financially secure when your affairs are in order. My wonderful panel guests Lucy Taylor and Suzanne Mynors explained why it’s so important to get your money and legal ducks in a row.”
— Moira O’Neill, Panellist and Financial Times Columnist
“What a fantastic event! My first experience of a live RHC seminar. Thank you so much for bringing together such lively and invigorating speakers. Meeting inspirational women like Lucy, Suzanne, and other panellists opened my mind to areas to consider at this key ‘empty nest’ time. It was a positive and uplifting experience!”
— Maarit Lilley, Guest
The Your Power Decade Conference is more than an event—it’s a movement empowering women to unlock their full potential. By bringing together expert advisors, inspirational speakers, and a community of like-minded women, it creates a space to reflect, reset, and move forward with purpose.
Take the First Step Towards Your Future
Feeling secure and empowered begins with a single step. Whether it’s seeking professional guidance, reflecting on your goals, or building a plan for the future, now is the time to take action.
The Really Helpful Club is here to support you every step of the way, with resources, events, and expert connections designed to help you thrive in your next chapter.
Stay tuned for more insights and highlights from the Your Power Decade Conference 2024—and join us for our upcoming events to continue the journey of empowerment.
