Tips for Creating Your Legacy
Hi friends,
When people hear “estate planning,” they often think of legal forms and complicated documents. But really, it’s about love — protecting your family, honoring your values, and making sure your wishes are known.
Here are a few simple tips to help you start building a meaningful legacy:
1. Start with What Matters Most
Before anything else, think about what’s most important to you. Who do you want to protect? Your kids, your spouse, a favorite charity, even your pets?
Your legacy begins with your heart — once you know your priorities, the planning part gets easier.
2. Get Your Documents in Order
Keep your will, power of attorney, healthcare directive, and any trusts in a safe place (like a fireproof folder or digital vault).
Make sure someone you trust knows where they are. A great plan doesn’t help if no one can find it.
3. Plan for the People You Love
If you have kids, choosing a guardian is a big step. Think about who shares your values and would care for them well.
You can even name one person to raise your children and someone else to handle finances — just make sure they’re all on the same page.
4. Protect Yourself While You’re Living
Estate planning isn’t just about when you’re gone. Accidents or illnesses can happen anytime.
Having a power of attorney and healthcare directive means someone you trust can help make decisions for you if you ever can’t — without needing court approval.
5. Review Your Plan Often
Your life changes — your plan should too. Review it every few years, or if something major happens like a move, marriage, birth, or new financial situation.
Laws also change, so a quick check-in with your attorney keeps things current.
6. Make It Personal
Want to leave your wedding ring to your daughter? Your recipe box to your niece? Your estate plan should reflect your life, your memories, and your relationships.
Include even the little things — they matter to the people you love.
7. Don’t Go It Alone
It’s tempting to grab a form online, but a one-size-fits-all plan usually leaves gaps. An estate planning attorney (like me!) can help you avoid mistakes and make sure everything works the way you want it to.
8. Talk About It
Sharing your plan with family — especially your spouse, kids, or executor — helps avoid confusion and keeps everyone on the same page.
These conversations can actually bring peace and connection.
9. Think Bigger Than Just a Will
Your legacy may include more than just a bank account. Consider things like:
- Digital accounts and passwords
- Charitable gifts
- Special needs care
- Pet care
- Family business plans
- Blended family dynamics
Your plan should cover the whole picture of your life.
