The start of a new year 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 it’s a necessary step in ensuring our affairs are in order. January is the perfect month to focus on end of life planning. In this post, we’ll explore why it’s important to take action and get a will and powers of attorney in place while you’re motivated and ready to take charge.

1. Don’t Wait for a Crisis – You may feel healthy and invincible, but accidents and unexpected illness can happen to anyone at any time. When a crisis hits, it can be overwhelming for you and your loved ones. Having a will and powers of attorney in place can make all the difference. Not only will it help ensure your wishes are honoured, but it can also relieve the burden and stress on family members during a time of crisis. Take advantage of your current state of motivation and get your affairs in order before a crisis strikes.
2. Protection of Your Assets – A will is not just about who will receive your assets when you die. It’s also about protecting those assets while you’re alive. Without a will, your assets can be tied up in probate court, which can be a lengthy and costly process. By having a will, you can ensure your assets are distributed according to your wishes and without delays. Seek the guidance of an attorney who specializes in estate planning to help you create a will that meets your specific needs.
3. Health Care Decisions – Powers of attorney for health care allow you to appoint someone to make medical decisions on your behalf should you become incapacitated. This can include issues such as whether or not to continue life-sustaining treatment, and it can provide your loved ones with peace of mind that they are carrying out your wishes. By creating powers of attorney for health care, you are taking control of your future healthcare decisions while you’re still able.
4. Peace of Mind for You and Your Family – End of life planning is not just about protecting your assets and ensuring your wishes are honoured. It’s also about creating peace of mind for you and your loved ones. Knowing that your affairs are in order can provide a sense of relief and comfort for everyone involved. The start of a new year is a great time to take control of your future and create a plan that will benefit you and your family for years to come.
5. Take Action Now – It’s easy to put off end of life planning. It’s not a topic we like to think about or discuss. But the truth is, there’s no time like the present. By taking action now and getting your affairs in order, you’ll have the peace of mind that comes with knowing your wishes will be carried out. You’ll also have the added benefit of taking care of something you’ve been putting off for far too long. As we kick off a new year, consider making end of life planning a priority.

January may not seem like the ideal month to focus on end of life planning, but it’s actually the perfect time. With a sense of motivation and renewal in the air, it’s an opportunity to tackle those tasks we often put off. By taking action now, you’ll not only be protecting your assets and ensuring your wishes are honoured, but you’ll also be creating peace of mind for yourself and your loved ones. Don’t wait for a crisis to strike – start the new year off right by making end of life planning a priority.