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 yourself and your loved ones. Read on to learn more about how to die well, and learn about what dying well might mean to you

What does ‘dying well’ mean, and why should you care?

We have to come to terms with death being an inevitable part of life, yet dying well reflects a life lived with purpose and taking control of how we die if we can. By living your truth and dying with humility, this helps create a healthier emotional environment for loved ones left behind – allowing them to realise that we are not a permanent fixture in this world.  

By setting out your health plans, you can take comfort in having taken control of your situation.

How can you make sure that your death is peaceful and meaningful for those you leave behind?

It’s important to make sure you take steps to ensure a peaceful death. One way of achieving this is by talking openly and honestly with loved ones about end-of-life issues and preferences. This can include everything from ensuring financial needs are taken care of ahead of time to being comfortable discussing matters like pre planned funerals or memorials. 

What can you do in your everyday life to prepare for a good death?

Taking time each day to reflect on life and one’s accomplishments can be vitally important for maintaining a good life as well as being the groundwork for a good death; by appreciating what we have we can achieve a sense of acceptance when we must eventually come to face with our mortality. Some recommendations on how to prepare for a good death can be found here.

What are some of the most common regrets people have about their deaths, and how can you avoid them?”

Most common among these regrets are not having celebrated life more, not having communicated clearly with loved ones, and not having spent time in meaningful activities with those closest to us. To ensure that we do not share these same regrets when our time comes, it is important to take steps now to appreciate life’s blessings, connect authentically with others, and explore the depths of what brings us joy during our remaining days.

How will knowing these things change the way you live your life now?

For many dying well means leaving behind a positive legacy that our family, friends, and loved ones can be proud of. It also means making sure I do not leave behind any unfinished business with those closest to me so they don’t have to dwell on it after my death. Reflecting on dying well may change the way you live your  life as it encourages more mindfulness in how you are treating yourself and others around you. Check out our article “Death – an inevitable part of life”.

What does dying well mean to you?

Want to get to grips with this topic even more? Download the MyGoodbyes app for step-by-step guidance on all aspects of preparing for end-of-life.