Don’t Be A Wuss, Get Yourself A Will – It’ll Be Too Late When You’re Gone

However, there is something you can do practically to demonstrate to your loved ones that they are top of your agenda when it comes to taking care of them, even after you have departed. That is, of course, to get yourself a will.

Did you know that something like 65% of people don’t have a will?  A shocking statistic, I think you’ll agree.  Which means that 65% of people reading this article probably don’t have one! 

My guess is that it comes from one of the following two beliefs:

• Burying your head in the sand:  a belief that “it will never happen to me” which is, of course, absurd since as sure as eggs is eggs, my friend, it will (if you’ll pardon the pun) 
• Fear – if I have a will written, it might in some bizarre and mystical way attract the grim-reaper sooner rather than later

When my Father died in October 2008, it was very sudden and unexpected; there was absolutely no warning.  I can attest to the fact that this kind of shock is very tough for those who are left behind as they have not had an opportunity to say goodbye or make their peace if there have been any upsets.  A good reason not to let the sun go down on any arguments, which was one of my parents’ maxims. 

However, if a will isn’t in place in such a situation, then it’s just too darn late.  So imagine if, on top of sudden death, your loved one died intestate?  The additional burden could cause untold difficulties financially, emotionally and administratively to those left behind.  Surely you value your loved ones enough not to want to leave them in such a predicament?

My Father, God rest his soul, not only had a will written but this, with other financial paperwork, was kept together in a safe place.  I remember, many years ago, when he told my sister and me where these important documents were kept.  I didn’t want to discuss it, because I couldn’t conceive of or bear the fact that one day he would no longer be there.  And you’ll never guess what was written on the top of the paperwork:

WHEN I FALL OFF THE TWIG!

He always did have a great sense of humour which I know is where I got mine from.  Wanting to make light of a very serious subject I suspect was just a façade as he wanted to make things easier for his children.

After my mother died 9 years previously, my Father vowed to spend the rest of his years helping others and that’s exactly what he did.  He wanted to atone for any mistakes he had made in life. 

As it fast approaches the 9-year anniversary of his death and in honour of his memory, I want to extend his vow of helping people by picking up the gauntlet myself. 

With this in mind, I implore you to do the right thing and get yourself a proper, professional will written by a qualified legal representative – not some on-line cheapie job.  You are working hard in your life to build your assets, aren’t you?  So why wouldn’t you want to protect them and your loved ones after you’ve gone? 

Surely looking after your nearest and dearest and your assets comes top of your agenda.  So push aside your fears and your procrastination and just … do it!

I’d go as far as saying this is one of the most important purchases you’re ever likely to make.  That, and a Lasting Power of Attorney or Living Will, in the event of catastrophic accident or illness, because hey will protect those you love from the added trauma of not knowing your wishes for how you want your assets distributed, or even what sort of funeral arrangements you would prefer.

One day someone very important to you will be so glad you valued them enough to do this, to give them this final act of love and care.

So, no more excuses, don’t put it off any longer.  Do the right thing.   Arrange it now.