Why Plan Ahead?
Why Plan Ahead?
It is difficult for people to think about the possibility of an accident, a major life altering illness,
or death for several reasons:
- Everyone knows put your affairs in order is a good idea, but it can be stressful and overwhelming
- The numerous, seemingly complicated tasks involved make it difficult to know where to start
- Feeling guilty about procrastinating but know this is something that should be done is normal
- Often thinking along these lines brings up feelings and memories of a negative, even traumatic experience associated with someone close who died. (This experience very often was their first death and funeral as a young child, which may have been traumatic and confusing.)
- Looking back over one's life and thinking about what you would like people to say about you at their funeral can also be daunting. Feeling you have yet to become the person you want to be can be difficult
The subjects of possible accidents, aging, major illnesses, death and funerals can be very sobering to think about. These feelings are completely normal. But, taking the time to plan, and giving each subject some thought can be very liberating and can reduce a great deal of stress for you and those you love.
It is also important to remember - once your decisions are made, these subjects require not just one, but numerous conversations with loved ones.
If things seem overwhelming, give yourself a break, then start again. BUT -- keep moving forward! It will get easier the more you think through each section, one topic at a time. And, as you work, you will begin to feel more empowered and more at peace once you decide what resonates for you, and what is best for those important to you in your life.
Life is busy and time passes quickly. Peace of mind is important.
Don't wait another day to get started!