Death is Inevitable, so Why Do People Think They Shouldn’t Plan?

Death is a topic that many people avoid talking about, and even more, avoid planning for. While death is certainly not the most pleasant thing to think about, it’s important to acknowledge that it is inevitable. We never know what tomorrow will bring, and it’s essential that we plan for the unexpected. Despite the importance of planning, many people still resist it. This blog post will explore why people are resistant to planning for death and why it’s so important that we have a plan.

Death is a Taboo Topic

One major reason why people don’t talk about death is that it is considered a taboo topic. In our culture, we tend to celebrate life and avoid talking about death. This can be especially difficult for those who are grieving, as they may feel like they don’t have a safe space to talk about their loss. It’s important to break down this taboo and create space for open and honest conversations about death. This can help people feel more comfortable planning for their own eventual death or the death of loved ones.

The age range of people who have planned for their death with estate planning, such as wills and trusts, can vary greatly. Generally, it’s recommended that adults create an estate plan once they have assets or dependents to protect, typically in their 20s or 30s. However, many people put off estate planning until they are older, with studies indicating that the majority of Americans over the age of 55 do not have a will or other estate planning documents in place. This delay can be due to a variety of reasons, including the misconception that estate planning is only for the wealthy, fear of confronting one’s mortality, or simply procrastination. Regardless of age, it’s important to remember that estate planning is crucial, and the earlier you start, the more options you have for preserving your legacy and protecting your loved ones.

People Believe They Have Time

Another common reason why people resist planning for death is the belief that they have plenty of time. Many people believe that they are too young to worry about their own death. However, the reality is that death can come at any time, and it’s important to be prepared. By planning for death, you can ensure that your loved ones are taken care of and that your wishes are honored.

Planning Can Be Overwhelming

Planning for death can be overwhelming, especially for those who are already dealing with other stresses in their lives. There are many decisions to be made, and it can be difficult to know where to start. However, by breaking the process down into manageable steps, planning for death can become much less daunting. It’s important to remember that planning for death is not a one-time event, but an ongoing process.

Fear of Mortality

Many people resist planning for death because it makes them confront their own mortality. The fear of death is natural, but it’s important to recognize that planning for death can actually provide comfort and peace of mind. By planning for death, you can ensure that your loved ones are taken care of after you’re gone. It can also help you feel more in control and prepared for the inevitable.

Belief That Planning is Expensive

Finally, some people resist planning for death because they believe it will be expensive. While there are certain costs associated with planning for death, there are also many affordable options available. It’s important to do your research and find a plan that fits your budget and your needs. Don’t let the fear of cost prevent you from planning for death.

Conclusion:

While planning for death is certainly not a fun topic, it’s essential that we do. Death is inevitable, and we never know when it will come. By planning for death, we can ensure that our loved ones are taken care of and that our wishes are honored. It’s important to break down the taboo surrounding death, confront our own mortality, and recognize that planning for death doesn’t have to be overwhelming or expensive. Let’s start the conversation about death and start planning for a future that we can’t control, but that we can prepare for.