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With the upcoming family celebrations, it may be an excellent time to discuss your plans for the next year and beyond, especially those involving your estate. Holidays are full of celebrating and spending time with loved ones. What better gift can you give than securing their future? Here are a few tips if you want to know how to discuss estate planning over the holidays.
Choose the Appropriate Place and Moment
When should you bring up your estate plans? You want to choose a time when everyone is focused. There might be better times to discuss your assets and will than at the holiday dinner. You don’t need a formal setting. Instead, select one that is calm and quiet. These plans are important. A casual talk in a cozy living room or during a holiday walk is all you need to discuss these matters.
Bring Up the Conversation in a Thoughtful Manner
Approaching the topic of estate planning requires some sensitivity. Remember that your loved ones may not want to think about a time without you. Don’t discount those feelings. These discussions are difficult but necessary. While the subject may be uncomfortable, make sure that your wishes are respected and understood.
Highlight Your Family’s Future
You will want to focus these conversations on securing the family’s future. Estate plans should not be one-sided. A well-thought-out strategy will make sure that everyone’s needs and wishes are taken into account. During this time, you want to make sure that everyone knows your wishes to avoid potential conflicts and uncertainties.
Don’t Overwhelm Them
Estate planning covers so many aspects, such as wills, trusts, healthcare directives, and power of attorney. You may want to skip discussing all these topics at once. Taking your time will make sure that your family members are not overwhelmed. This approach allows them to focus on one area at a time.
Create a Follow-Up Plan
As you may already know, estate planning is an ongoing process. You can use these conversations during the holidays as a starting point. Whatever you do, make sure to establish a plan for follow-up discussions or actions. You may want someone to gather important documents or consult an estate planning attorney.
End on a Positive Note
These conversations do not have to focus on the heartbreaking aspects of the future. When you recognize your family’s commitment to planning for the future, you can celebrate those goals. Estate planning should never be about the worst of times. Instead, you will want to take this opportunity to secure your loved ones’ future for many generations to come.
Estate Planning Discussions Are Never Easy
Estate planning over the holidays is not a festive subject. However, with family members at your side, you can make sure your final wishes are carried out with dignity and respect. Give the gift of taking control of your family’s future.
If you want to learn more about how to discuss estate planning over the holidays, contact Bielski Chapman, LTD. Whether you have a plan in place or want to get started, our team can help put you on the right track. Schedule a consultation by calling (312) 583-9430.