Ever come across the phrase ‘the plumber’s house always has a leaky faucet’? It’s funny how we often overlook in our own lives what we expertly handle for others.
Just like that, I found myself in a similar spot over the holidays. As someone deeply immersed in legacy planning, I realized it was high time I turned my professional lens onto my own family situation.
You know, the kind that aren’t always easy but are oh-so-necessary. We’re talking estate plans, legacy dreams, and those all-important end-of-life wishes. Trust me, it’s not your usual festive chatter. 😅
Picture this: You’re flipping through old photo albums, reminiscing over family recipes that bring back a flood of memories. These moments are precious – they’re also the perfect gateway to heart-to-heart discussions about the legacies we wish to leave behind. Even if you don’t cover everything, simply broaching these topics can set the stage for deeper conversations in the new year.
So this year, my husband and I sat down with his parents to ask some specific questions. Questions like:
- When was the last time they updated their will, financial power of attorney, or advance healthcare directive?
- Where are their important documents kept?
- Do they have any debts or life insurance policies? Where do they do their banking and which institutions are their investment accounts with?
- If something were to happen, would we have access to funds to pay immediate expenses?
- How do they manage their digital footprint, like passwords and online accounts?
- Have they utilized online planning tools for their digital assets, like Apple’s Legacy Contact or Google’s Inactive Account Manager?
- Is anyone else privy to their phone or computer unlock codes?
I won’t sugarcoat it – initiating these discussions can feel awkward, even for me, and I do this for a living! But it’s crucial to start somewhere, and once that door is open, future conversations become much easier.
Ideally, these talks shouldn’t wait for an emergency or a health crisis. They’re conversations we should be having regularly, ensuring nothing important is left unsaid.
I understand that life can throw curveballs, making these discussions challenging, but it’s my mission to make them less daunting. So, if you’re looking to get your legacy in order, even if it’s just getting started, we’re here for you. We can help you organize those vital details that are easy to overlook.
To kickstart this process, I’ve got a handy guide, “How to Have the Talk About Legacy Planning,” available for free download here. And if you’re ready to take the next step, we’re on standby to assist you in preserving your story and safeguarding your family’s future.
Remember, planning ahead is a beautiful gift to your loved ones.
