Having end-of-life discussions can be hard. Trust me, I know! I’m having trouble in that area as well – but preparing for the final goodbye is one of the most selfless things we can do for our family. Preparation isn’t about anticipating the end; it’s about creating peace in the present. That’s why I came up with five steps we can take to help us begin our process.

1. Organize Your Essential Information Locate all your important documents such as your personal identifying information, life insurance policy if you have one, as well as health records. Having a list of your bank institutions, passwords, and contacts all in one place is important. This simple step spares loved ones from the stress and confusion of searching for these items during a time when they need clarity most.

2. Create and Update Your Living Will If you don’t have a living will or know what that is, I invite you do embark on a discovery journey now. Putting your healthcare and end-of-life wishes in writing ensures that your voice guides your care and relieves your family of difficult decisions during emotional times. If you are not sure what the estate requirements are in your area, seek a reputable attorney for guidance.

3. Communicate your Wishes Now’s the time to speak up. No one is going to read our minds when we’re on life support with feeding tubes down our throat. Have an open conversation with those you trust about the things that matter most to you – from care preferences to how you’d like to be remembered by those who knew you and those who are told about you. Clear communication brings comfort and confidence to everyone involved.

4. Write Down Your Legacy What’s a legacy, you ask? A legacy is tangible and intangible things we leave behind once we’re gone. Tangible items are things our loved ones can use or touch, like cars, houses, jewelry and money. Intangible legacy is more of the nonmaterial treasures such as values, traditions or even memories. Those jewels can be captured in a letter, journal, or audio message. Never doubt that your words alone can become a lasting gift that reminds others who you were and what you valued most.

5. Seek Support and Guidance In my best Michael Jackson singing voice, hear me when I say, “you are not alooooone. I am here with youuuuu!” *Clears throat* Whether you understood the point I was trying to make through my cracked voice and imperfect pitch or not, what I’m trying to tell you is that you don’t have to face these steps alone. Services like Bereave it to Me offer compassionate guidance to help you organize, prepare and bring order to life’s final moments. Whether you want a listening ear while you regurgitate your wildest wishes, or someone who can accurately and creatively capture your thoughts and feelings into a beautifully written memoire, we can help.

Preparing doesn’t take away the enjoyment of life; it enhances it. It allows the living to rest peacefully in life knowing that they are prepared when dying is no longer a mystery. It’s not about death, its about the love that endures beyond it.