THE WILL TO PLAN
Although it may feel life is busier than ever, the Bureau of Labor Statistics claim five hours of each day is “leisure” time spent watching TV, reading, playing sports or games — but not estate planning. A Harris Interactive poll supports that some subjects would prefer doing taxes or getting a root canal!
Most Don’t Have a Will
Do you have a Will, one of the most basic estate planning documents? Many don’t, including parents with minor children, a document that would name back-up parents in the event the children are orphaned. What about a Living Will to direct end-of-life medical procedures? The same Harris study found half of those over 65 have a financial planner to handle the funds but no healthcare power in place, even though we realize the need to get these basic planning plans into place.
Despite Good Intentions
Psychologist Piers Steel of the University of Calgary says procrastination keeps folks from planning. However, his studies in his book, “The Procrastination Equation,” revealed that putting off making these quite difficult decisions actually creates a sense of more pressure and lowers the overall well-being of an individual, including health and salaries!
Beating Procrastination
Having a sound plan in place provides peace of mind. Steel says the trick is to reframe what appears to be a broad, ambitious task into concrete, manageable, immediate goals.
Start by calling and scheduling an initial consultation. Focus on one quick, easy decision at a time.
Pick up the phone.