Before you read any further, this may seem like an advertisement for the book that Muffy and I published…I want to say that right up front. However, we do feel that it is an important book for recording important information that individuals and their loved ones can use either on a daily basis, or during times of an emergency. If you don’t use our book to record important information, then use a notebook and keep it in a safe place. Be sure to tell a trusted family member, friend or legal adviser where the information is kept.
A recent article by Sheryl Harris in the Cleveland Plain Dealer “The ultimate exit strategy: A when-I-die checklist” identifies several areas that need consideration before we die. She states “Planning for death will not cause you to die….It may, however, save those you leave behind from having to make decisions when they’re really not at their best.” So take a few minutes to read this article, and take a few more minutes to write down some important information.
Here are some highlights, and examples of information that is important:
- Don’t leave your affairs in chaos. Have a will, a trust, and/or a plan for minor children
- Play to your heirs’ strengths. Decide who will be in charge. Also decide who will know where you keep all of the information that you will be recording.
- Plan your own sendoff. Leave instructions on specifics you would like to have included for your funeral. Also let others know if you prefer burial or cremation.
- Sort out your stuff. Have an inventory of your possessions so family members will understand what is valuable and what is not.
- Earmark prize possessions. If you want certain items to go to certain people someday, either give it to them now or make clear instructions of who receives what.
- Plan for your pets. This is an area that many people fail to consider.
- Keep track of your financial accounts. Have a list of your important accounts and investments, and keep it updated.
- Create an illness/death folder. Have a set of information and instructions that family members should know in case you become ill and cannot take care of day-to-day activities.
- Talk about your plans. And share the information you have recorded with a trusted family member or friend.
During our eight plus years as Professional Organizers we have encountered many situations where recording the above information would have been beneficial, and saved loved ones time, stress and money. Most of the information can be entered into Where Can I Find It?. It is available for less than $20, and could be downloaded as a PDF for less than $5. We feel this is a small price to pay for some peace of mind. If you don’t purchase our book, or a similar one on the market, be sure and write down or express your wishes to someone. It may take some time, but this is something you will only need to do once.
Thanks for reading,
JoEllen
