mygoodbyes blog
-
No categories
Dad and his Lack of a Funeral Plan
Dad didn’t leave a funeral plan. So we guessed.No songs. No instructions.Maybe he didn’t want to think about it.Maybe he thought there’d be more time. We got lucky. I knew a drone pilot who offered to scatter his ashes for free. Dad loved a gadget, and a bargain even more, so we said yes. It…
-
No categories
The Briefing: Options for Celebrating a Life
And why this is important Choosing how we say goodbye is deeply personal. From traditional funerals to joyful celebrations of life, each option offers a way to honour what matters most. In this piece, we explore different ways to mark a life well lived with meaning, love, and a touch of individuality. In this article,…
-
No categories
MyGoodbyes Let’s Talk Death: Evie King
Let’s Talk Death is our way of opening up gentle, honest conversations about something most of us tend to avoid – death. It’s not about gloom or fear; it’s about understanding life more deeply by hearing how others think and feel about its ending. Each month, we speak to someone with a unique perspective on…
-
No categories
The Briefing: Capturing Memories
Why This Matters It’s easy to think, “Oh, I’ll remember that story forever.” But over time, details slip away. The best gift we can give is capturing memories now. The power of storytelling offers a sense of connection and belonging across generations. Remembering those who have died and sharing their beliefs, values, and experiences helps…
-
No categories
Loneliness is more dangerous than smoking 15 cigarettes a day. But a wave and nod can help.
We spend our lives chasing health.The right food.The right fitness tracker.The right bedtime.But we forget the most powerful medicine: connection: a nod, or a wave. When I drove a Defender, I loved the wave.Two Land Rovers pass.A lift of the hand.You’re part of something. Now I ride a motorbike. It’s a nod. Same idea, same…
-
Kathryn Mannix: Why we should talk about death
In this short clip, Kathryn Mannix—an experienced palliative care doctor—challenges common fears and misconceptions around dying. She explains that dying needn’t be the terrible, chaotic experience many imagine, and argues that understanding the process can radically change how we feel about it. Kathryn Mannix: It’s time to break the taboo that exists around death. 4…
-
When Conflict Arises During End of Life Planning
Discussing end-of-life (“eol”) planning with loved ones is a sensitive task. The concept of mortality, for ourselves and those we care about, can be overwhelming. Conflicts and concerns can arise during this process. Long-standing issues may resurface when we consider the possibility of losing someone, or we may disagree with a person’s eol plan but…
-
A MGB host can be the life (and death) of the party
3 ways to be the life (and death) of the party It’s been a tough couple of years for the party. Through the lockdowns we’ve missed the life-affirming, restorative power of getting together and sharing good food and good times with the ones we love. Parties let us take care of each other, reminding us…
-
The Importance of End-of-life Planning in September
The start of September often brings about a sense of motivation and renewal. A chance to start fresh and tackle those tasks we’ve been putting off. One task that we often push to the back burner is end of life planning. It’s not a topic we like to think about, much less talk about, but…
-
MyGoodbyes’ TV Review: Pushing Daisies
Pushing Daisies is a visually stunning and whimsical TV show that aired from 2007 to 2009. The show is a unique blend of romance, mystery, and fantasy, and it’s not like anything else on television. The story follows Ned, a pie-maker who can bring the dead back to life with a single touch. However, there’s…
-
MyGoodbyes’ trip: Vienna Central Cemetery
Whilst cemeteries generally aren’t a typical must-see on a city’s tourist map, more and more people are being drawn to them as important architectural and cultural sites. Whether tourists are going to pay their respects to the inhabitants or to marvel at sculptures, tombs and mausoleums, certain cemeteries around the world have become major attractions.…
-
Easy Ways to Start the Conversation About End-of-Life
Facing the reality of our mortality can be a daunting task, but it is a conversation that holds profound importance for both ourselves and our loved ones. Discussing end-of-life planning is not just about practical matters; it’s an act of love and responsibility that can provide peace of mind and security for everyone involved. However,…
-
MyGoodbyes: Our Consultancy for business
A Financial Institution approached us to support with the rollout of a digital product called for end-of-life planning. The solution allowed customers to store important documentation securely and outline their wishes for end-of life-planning, to be shared with loved ones and was completely free. The key ask was to ensure that staff were informed and comfortable…
-
MyGoodbyes Guide: How to Approach the Conversation
Approaching the conversation about end-of-life wishes and sharing can be sensitive and challenging. Here are some top tips to navigate this conversation effectively: Approaching the conversation about end-of-life wishes with empathy, respect, and sensitivity can help foster understanding and ensure that the person’s preferences are honoured and respected during this important time.
-
Get Practical: how weddings & wills go hand-in-hand
When you’re planning a wedding, there are lots of things to think about: dates, venues, the guest list, dresses, a first dance, and that’s just the tip of the iceberg! One thing that often gets overlooked is the need to think about Wills. Here’s why it’s so important to think about your Wills (one for…
-
MyGoodbyes’ Words With Tracey Adamson
Tracey Adamson has been a mediator since 2011. As a co-founder of Concord Conflict Solutions, she mediates workplace and family conflict, specialising in supporting older people, and those around them, as they deal with the challenges that come in later life. Tracey lives in London but remains the proud owner of an accent forged during…
-
MyGoodbyes’ Get Practical: Family History and Legacy
Exploring family history can provide valuable insight into our heritage and inner motivations. By learning about the values and beliefs that are intertwined with our heritage, we can gain clarity when making legacy planning decisions. Sharing stories from family history can strengthen family bonds and create a sense of belonging, while identifying patterns and themes…
-
The Briefing: Vicki Gulliver Head of the Probate Lodders
Vicki is senior associate and chartered legal executive in Lodders’ Private Client team, and part of the MyGoodbyes panel of experts. She advises clients on a broad range of private client matters including wills, Lasting Powers of Attorney (LPAs) the administration of estates and also assists families dealing with probate issues. Vicki recently produced a…
-
Exploring the Beauty of Living Funerals
Have you ever heard of a “Living Funeral”? 🤔 It’s not what you might think! In recent years, living funerals have grown in popularity as more and more people seek to celebrate life while they still have the chance. A living funeral, also known as a pre-funeral or a celebration of life ceremony, is a…
-
MyGoodbyes Party – Picnic in the Park
Are you looking to host a memorable MyGoodbyes Party theme? The MyGoodbyes Party is all about celebrating life and talking with friends and families about end of life wishes in a fun environment. With a touch of nostalgia and a sprinkle of joy, this event calls for a gathering that will create lasting memories. In…
-
Goodbye Letters: Expressing Feelings
Often, we struggle to find the right words to express how we feel, which can leave the experience feeling unfinished and unresolved. That’s where goodbye letters come in. If you’re struggling to say goodbye to something or someone, consider picking up a pen and paper and giving goodbye letters a try. You might be surprised…
-
MyGoodbyes’ Guide: Choosing a Funeral Director
Choosing a Funeral Director Choosing a funeral director isn’t something often mentioned in ‘polite society’ – or even impolite, for that matter. Why? Because it means acknowledging the fact of death, it means embracing the ‘odd idea’ that we are not immortal, that our body will wear out at some point, and that death will…
-
Healthcare and End-of-Life Planning
Healthcare and end-of-life planning can be daunting topics, but it’s crucial to have conversations about what your loved one wants and needs. Having open and honest conversations and understanding the legal options available can help your loved one achieve peace of mind in their final days. 1. Discuss your loved one’s end-of-life wishes. Some conversations…
-
The benefits of legacy planning for personal growth and development
Thinking about your legacy and legacy planning can be as much about helping you personally as it is about making arrangements for others. Legacy planning can provide peace of mind and help ensure values and beliefs are passed down, but it can also provide a sense of control over your life, encourage reflection, and serve…
-
Storytelling preserves memories and values for future generations
The power of storytelling offers us a sense of connection and belonging among future generations. By remembering those who have died and sharing their beliefs, values, and experiences with others, we gain an appreciation for our past and learn invaluable lessons that shape who we are. 1. Sharing family stories can create a sense of…
-
Why advanced planning for your death is a loving act
What if we were to tell you that planning for your death is one of the most loving things you can do for those you leave behind? It may seem like a morbid subject, but by thinking about and planning for our own deaths, we can ease the burden on our loved ones. In this…
-
MyGoodbyes’ Guide: How To Say Goodbye
Have you ever had to say a final goodbye to someone and wished there was a better way? A way where you could choose the words, the tone, and even the length of time? With MyGoodbyes, we aim to give you the tools to say goodbye in a way that feels right for both you…
-
MyGoodbyes’ review of the film ‘Living’
After we heard such good things about it, we decided to see it for ourselves and breakdown what makes ‘Living’ so life affirming. Director: Oliver Hermanus. Featuring: Bill Nighy, Aimee Lou Wood, Alex Sharp, Tom Burke. Synopsis: After decades of humdrum monotony, Mr. Williams’ retirement was shaken by a devastating diagnosis: terminal cancer with just…
-
Funeral and Memorial Planning in Legacy Creation
Lots of us have some idea about how we want our funeral to be, whether it’s a particular reading, a dress-code, or our favourite songs. Customising end-of-life services provides a personal touch that reflects the memory of a loved one and creates a lasting tribute. Planning ahead for end-of-life arrangements can save loved ones the…
-
Communication with Your Healthcare Providers
Communication is critical in providing the best possible healthcare and ultimately saving lives. That is why it is important to be open and honest with your healthcare provider when discussing any symptoms, treatments, or worries you may have regarding your health. Even if death is a reality we all must face, it doesn’t mean that…
-
Ideas for Remembering Your Furry Friend
Pets are arguably one of the most loyal and loving creatures that we have welcomed into our lives. Each has their own unique personality and quirks that we grow to adore, making them a cherished member of our families. As owners, it’s important to do what we can to preserve the memories of our furry…
-
Open and Honest Conversations About Death
The reason some things feel uncomfortable to talk about, is that they’re not often talked about. It’s a vicious cycle, and for many of us it means that discussing death (especially our own) is still somewhat taboo. Open conversations about death can help alleviate anxiety and fear by bringing emotions into the open, and providing…
-
Things to Consider When Adopting a New Pet after Loss
There’s something special about rescuing an animal in need and giving them a second chance at a happy life. Whether it’s a cuddly kitten or a loyal dog, the unconditional love and companionship that pets offer can help to fill the void left by a previous pet. And who knows – maybe this new addition…
-
Making End-of-life Care Decisions for Pets
When it comes to end-of-life care for your pets, navigating the decision-making process can be difficult, but it is important to remember that the most important factor should be your pet’s comfort and quality of life. Whether it’s palliative care, hospice care, or euthanasia, ensuring your pet experiences as much love and comfort in their…
-
How Memories Can Help You Cope with Loss
Grief is inevitable, but memories help to work through difficult emotion. It’s important to appreciate the power of our memories, and how they can let our loved ones stay with us, turning the pain of loss into a comforting warmth. As we reminisce about the laughter, love, and experiences we’ve had, the presence of our…
-
Goodbye Rituals: Ways to Say Farewell
By creating personal and meaningful ceremonies to say goodbye, we create lasting memories that celebrate connection and comfort us in times of change. Whether it be parting with a loved one, moving away from a familiar place, or experiencing a significant life transition, investing in how change happens can provide support and bring solace. Embrace…
-
Write your own AI-enhanced obituary
What happens when you write your own AI-enhanced obituary? James at MyGoodbyes tried it out using chatGPT – providing the AI with all the facts and stories of his life – to see what happened. Tired of worrying about what will happen to all your important information once you’re gone? With advances in artificial intelligence,…
-
Why are people scared to talk about “Dying Well”?
“Dying Well” is a phrase that is often used, but what does it actually mean? Some people might say that it means dying without pain, while others might believe that it means having control over your death. Regardless of how you define “dying well,” one thing is for sure: nobody wants to talk about it.…
-
Estate Planning and How it Relates to Legacy
Estate planning is crucial if you want to ensure that your assets are distributed according to your wishes and that your family members are taken care of after you’re gone. Planning ahead will reduce the burden on loved ones by preventing potential conflict or confusion over your estate, and it allows you to leave a…
-
The importance of documenting your life story and experiences
Documenting your life story can be achieved through various methods, such as writing an autobiography, keeping a journal or a blog. It is important to preserve your unique perspectives and insights for future generations and to reflect on your life journey to gain clarity, motivation and closure. Sharing your experiences and lessons with loved ones…
-
Embracing diverse views in legacy planning
To create a meaningful legacy and end-of-life plan, it’s essential to seeking out and embracing diverse perspectives. By doing so, you can reflect on the wider impact of your legacy and make a positive change for future generations. 1. Consider perspectives from different cultures, ethnicities, and religions when planning your legacy Taking the time to…
-
Preserving Memories of Your Loved One
Losing a loved one is one of the most difficult experiences we’ll face and it’s natural to want to hold onto our memories of them forever, but as time passes, those memories can fade. The methods you choose to celebrate and preserve those memories can be as personal as the experiences they remind you of,…
-
MyGoodbyes’ Guide: Alternative Endings
Alt:Endings Go Your Own Way Gone are the days when funerals meant just two options: traditional burial or cremation. It’s time we think outside the traditional funeral box, and if you’re a funeral innovator, an end-of-life planner, or just someone intrigued by death customs, buckle up because we’re about to dive into some truly remarkable…
-
Reflecting on Memories and Embracing Change
In today’s blog post, we embark on a journey of exploration, delving into the art of honoring memories while gracefully embracing change. Life, like a magnificent tapestry, weaves together moments that bring joy, love, and laughter, as well as those that leave a bittersweet taste in our hearts. Let us discover the harmonious balance between…
-
Planting Memories with Forget Me Not Seeds
At our stand at the Legal Geek conference, we provided Forget Me Not seeds to the attendees. For us, Forget Me Nots represent remembering and leaving a lasting legacy. These beautiful and timeless flowers are symbolic, and growing them can be a powerful representation of how we want to be remembered. In this blog post,…
-
Family history and legacy
Exploring family history can provide valuable insight into our heritage and inner motivations. By learning about the values and beliefs that are intertwined with our heritage, we can gain clarity when making legacy planning decisions. Sharing stories from family history can strengthen family bonds and create a sense of belonging, while identifying patterns and themes…
-
MyGoodbyes’ Words With….David Hieatt
Words With: David Hieatt David Hieatt has built brands from nothing with next to nothing, just by understanding a few basic rules of how to sell his story. One sentence at a time. Bankrupt at 16 and thrown out of college at 18. He joined Saatchi and Saatchi at 21. Had a ball. But after…
-
The Briefing: Choosing the Right Executor Beyond Family Members
When it comes to choosing an executor for your will, it may seem like a difficult task if you don’t have any suitable candidates within your family. This is a common dilemma that many face, and it can be daunting to find the perfect person for such an important role. However, there are some helpful…
-
The Briefing: Gill Hogg on the life of a Will Writer
Gill works for The Will Guys, a family run business based in Newcastle-Upon-Tyne: In my previous life I was a PE teacher (I managed 23 years in total) working in Walker, Newcastle, at the High School there. When I was getting divorced my mum kept saying I should do a Will. No one told me…
-
MyGoodbyes’ Words With…. Dead Good
We are sisters, Katy and Lindsey Vigurs (Vigurs rhymes with tigers) and we are the founding directors of DEAD GOOD CIC. We’re a not-for-profit, arts-based deathwork & death education company based in the UK. We personally believe that it is not morbid to speak openly about death and we see honest conversations about death and dying as the…
-
Honouring memories & Embracing Change to Create a Legacy
Life is an everchanging journey, and with each chapter comes new adventures, new lessons, and new opportunities. However, amidst all the changes, it is crucial to hold onto the memories and cherish them as a part of your legacy. Honouring the past while moving forward allows you to create a lasting legacy. In this blog…
-
It’s Never Too Late to Put End of Life Plans in Place
As we go through life, we never really know what the future holds for us. With every passing day, we are faced with different challenges and unexpected turns that can change our lives in an instant. No one really likes to think about death, but it is a reality that we must all face eventually.…
-
MyGoodbyes’ Book Review: Ashes To Admin
Author: Evie King Imagine a life without the presence of family or friends; you sadly pass away alone and your life remains unrecognised, neglected as if never to be heard again. Thanks to Evie King an inspiring local council worker in charge of carrying out Section 46 funerals under the Public Health Act, these individuals’…
-
MyGoodbyes Party – We Have You Covered
Saying goodbye doesn’t have to be a sombre affair. It’s an opportunity to celebrate the moments shared, the memories made, and the future adventures that lie ahead. While traditional goodbye parties are common, there are exciting and unconventional ways to bid farewell to a friend or loved one. In this article, we explore three unique…
-
MyGoodbyes’ Seasonal Festive Gift Guide
We have the ultimate festive gift guide to help you explore that deathy side!
-
Life and Death: 3 MyGoodbyes Party Themes
A MGB host can be the life (and death) of the party / 3 ways to be the life (and death) of the party It’s been a tough couple of years for the party. Through the lockdowns we’ve missed the life-affirming, restorative power of getting together and sharing good food and good times with the…
-
Remembering Aging Parents Through Stories and Tributes
The inevitability of time’s passage brings us to a profound moment when we must bid farewell to those who have shaped our lives. Our aging parents, who have been our guiding lights, mentors, and pillars of strength, deserve to be remembered in a way that celebrates their impact and the profound legacy they leave behind.…
-
MyGoodbyes’ Book Review: Being Mortal
Author: Atul Gawande Living and Dying: these are difficult conversations to have, but ones that needs to be had nevertheless. In his book “Being Mortal: Medicine and What Matters in the End”, Atul Gawande tackles difficult topics like healthcare decisions and mortality with frankness that gives readers far more than just an understanding of ageing…
-
Dealing with Death Anxiety: Tips for Living a Fulfilling Life
Death is a subject that many of us avoid talking about. We don’t want to think about it, let alone discuss it with our loved ones. However, death anxiety is a common psychological issue that can cause immense discomfort and distress. Avoiding this anxiety can lead to a ton of emotional and mental turmoil. But…
-
MyGoobyes Party – Day of the Dead
Saying goodbye is never easy. It’s a bittersweet moment filled with emotions and memories. But what if we could turn that farewell into a celebration of life, love, and cherished moments? That’s exactly what MyGoodbyes.co.uk brings to the table with their extraordinary concept of farewell parties. In this heartfelt blog post, we’ll dive into the…
-
How to Talk to Your Ageing Parents About End-of-Life Wishes
As our parents age, it is essential to help them prepare for the inevitable. No one likes to think about end-of-life wishes, but it is a conversation that needs to happen. Yet, broaching the subject with your parents can be uncomfortable and even emotionally fraught. How can you initiate the conversation with your aging parents…
-
MyGoodbyes’ TV Review: Succession – Episode 1
Director: Adam McKay Featuring: Brian Cox, Kieran Culkin, Sarah Snook, Matthew Macfadyen, Jeremy Strong and J. Smith Cameron Overview of first episode: With Succession coming back soon for their final series, I thought I would do a review of the first episode of the first series as I will be going back to re-watch them…
-
MyGoodbyes Guide: How To Move Forward After Loss
Hello and goodbye are the bookends of a conversation, of meeting and parting. Saying goodbye to someone you love is one of the most difficult things you can go through in life. But saying goodbye can also be one of the most powerful ways to help you move forward after loss. t’s important to allow…
-
Cultural and Personal Beliefs in Legacy Planning
Personal and cultural beliefs play a significant role in legacy planning and end-of-life decisions. Understanding and respecting these beliefs is crucial for creating an end-of-life plan that aligns with an individual’s wishes and values, and brings comfort and closure to loved ones. 1. Cultural and personal beliefs can influence the type of legacy an individual…
-
How to Balance Work and Life After A Break
The start of autumn means saying goodbye to summer vacations, days spent lounging in the sun, and spending quality time with family and friends. However, for many of us, it also means returning to work and the stress that comes along with it. The transition back to work can be particularly challenging after a relaxing…
-
Meaningful End-of-Life Rituals for Your Pet
When the time comes to say goodbye, honouring your pet’s life and creating meaningful end-of-life rituals can help ease the pain and make the transition a bit easier. Whether it’s a simple gesture or an elaborate ceremony, saying goodbye in a meaningful way can help bring closure and honour the special bond you shared with…
-
MyGoodbyes Guide: The Legacy of a Pet
For many pet owners, their beloved pet is more than just an animal – they are loving and loyal companions that leave a lasting impact on their lives. When it comes time to say goodbye to a beloved pet, it can be a difficult and emotional process. However, choosing to honour the life of a…
-
MyGoodbyes Guide: Saying Goodbye to a Pet
Saying goodbye to a pet is never easy. Our furry friends become our family members and their presence in our lives is deeply cherished. Remember that the love and joy they brought to your life will never fade, and their paw prints will remain forever imprinted on your heart. 1. Create a memorial space to…
-
Tomorrow University: A Lively Discussion on the Taboo of Death
On June 16th, 2023, we hosted our first event at the University of Vienna: The MyGoodbyes Party for Tomorrow University. Hosted by James Barrett and Faye Temperley and attended by 40 students of Tomorrow University, the session aimed not only to provide enriching conversations about a challenging topic, but also to break the stigma attached…
-
Saying Goodbye: Coping with the Loss
Saying goodbye and difficult emotional experiences are often compared to rough seas, pitching us through crests and troughs as we’re carried along without control. As we attempt to navigate these treacherous waters, it’s essential for us to recognize that grief is a natural response to loss, and that coping with this depth of feeling requires…
-
Posh Gardens, Pimms and End of Life Chats
A visit the RHS Chelsea Flower Show We all know that the natural world can offer a safe and healing environment when we are feeling in the need of a green hug, that can, of course, extend into helping us with end of life discussions. In this review, we are exploring how this year’s RHS…
-
Remembering loved ones and their memories
Memories are like muscles. By exercising them, we can make them stronger, and help avoid them becoming weaker over time. By recalling and sharing treasured stories, not only do we honour people’s memory and celebrate their lives, but we also create a lasting legacy to inspire and resonate with future generations. Our bonds with those…
-
Environmental and ecological considerations in legacy planning
The importance of considering environmental and ecological issues is crucial for promoting sustainability and leaving a lasting positive impact on the planet. It inspires future generations to be environmentally conscious and allows individuals to support causes that align with their personal values. 1. Helps to promote sustainability and reduce the impact of our actions on…
-
Benefits of adding philanthropy and charity to legacy planning
When we help others, a common benefit is that we feel good for doing it. That is why philanthropy and charity are a meaningful way to make a difference, leave a lasting impact, and create a legacy of care. 1. Enhances personal fulfilment and sense of purpose, providing a meaningful way to give back to…
-
The role of technology in legacy planning and end-of-life decisions
The role of technology in end-of-life decisions is increasingly important, from digital asset planning to virtual memorials. While online tools and platforms make end-of-life sharing and decision-making more accessible, there are ethical considerations to be taken into account, such as privacy and security concerns. By addressing these issues proactively, we can ensure that end-of-life wishes…
-
Get prepared for end-of-life decision-making
Get prepared for end-of-life decision-making Preparation plays a crucial role in good end-of-life decision-making. By educating yourself and your loved ones on the available options and possibilities, you can make informed decisions about how you want things to play out. Being informed is being empowered, and it means you get prepared for end-of-life decision-making that…
-
How to make sure your wishes are carried out
No one wants to think about death, but it’s something that we all have to face at some point. If you want to be sure that your wishes are carried out after you die, it’s important to plan ahead and make a will. Here are some tips on how to do just that. 1. Make…
-
End of life planning: why it’s important and how to do it
End of life planning is a critical task that too often gets pushed to the back burner. However, it’s important to take the time to make your wishes known so that your loved ones can honour them after you’re gone. This article will discuss why end of life planning is important and how you can…
-
Understanding what dying well means to you
Death is often dreaded, but what if it doesn’t have to be that way? Dying well might mean taking charge of your own death and creating a meaningful end-of-life experience. Whether you want to plan a death celebration or simply make your final days more comfortable, there are ways to make the process easier on…
-
Why everyone should have a solid end-of-life plan
An end-of-life plan is something that many people put off until it’s too late. However, having a solid plan in place can make things much easier for your loved ones when the time comes. Here are just a few reasons why. A solid end-of-life plan… …ensures your wishes are carried out End-of-life plans ensure that…
-
MyGoodbyes’ review of the film ‘Peaceful’
Does the film Peaceful actually bring peace? We find it to be honest and moving. Director: Emmanuelle Bercot Featuring: Catherine Deneuve and Benoît Magimel. Synopsis: Peaceful tells a deeply moving story of Benjamin. From a career spent teaching others how to act, Benjamin’s life takes an unexpected turn when he is suddenly diagnosed with cancer. …