As mortals, the notion that someday we will no longer be around is always lurking somewhere, ready to strike at us when we least expect it. It’s no wonder that we avoid some conversations and thoughts with such ease and regularity, even when doing so can be detrimental to ourselves and our families. Estate planning is exactly this kind of idea. The thought that we should prepare for what happens after we die is a significant barrier that keeps many people from starting their estate planning efforts.
Tip 1: Confront your own emotions. Sometimes we are lax to even acknowledge our fears, much less recognize that they are stopping us from acting. Try thinking about writing your Will. Sit down, write down how you want your property distributed after you die. List all your property and determine how it will be handed out. If you can get this far, you should take your list to an attorney and begin the estate planning process. If you can’t, if something always conveniently comes up, you’ll need to stop and consider what is stopping you and what you’re feeling when it happens.
Tip 2: Manage the resistance. You don’t have to get over your fear or hesitation, but you do have to be able to control it enough to move ahead. Talk to friends, family or professional counselors about what you’re experiencing. Even if the feeling never goes away, you need to be able to move past it and not let it hinder you from developing an estate plan.
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