I was out with a friend the other day. We were talking about all kinds of interesting topics and we got onto the subject of being a parent. My friend shared his views about his role as a father and the things he had done to provide for his children’s future.

When he finished speaking, I asked him if he had written a will. He looked ashamed ,” no, I haven’t”. In my experience, writing a will is a taboo subject for many people.

Over the years, I’ve asked a number of people about their wills. My interest stems from being a responsible godparent and I’ve seen the devastation when people die without a will. People give all kinds of reasons for not writing their will what’s yours.

  • Not knowing what to leave to whom
  • Unable to identify their assets
  • Not knowing a good solicitor (lawyer)
  • Costs too much
  • Reluctant to face their own mortality

These reasons are valid for the people who have them. If you are taking responsibility for your financial well-being, take care of it in life and in death.

Writing a will is important. It’s something that you need to take care of - sooner rather than later. It’s not an easy thing to do and you may need some professional help.

Before you get to the stage where you feel ready to draft your will, there is work you will need to do. This list is not exhaustive, but it gives you a starting point.

  1. Find out what you can about getting your will drawn up. There are loads of helpful sites, providing useful information. The legal position will vary from country to country
  2. An executor is the person appointed to ensure your wishes are carried out; who would you trust to do this for you?
  3. How will you provide for your children and who would you choose to bring them up in your place?
  4. What kind of funeral would you like?
  5. Would you like to donate your organs?
  6. Do you need to make provision to reduce death duties (Inheritance Tax)
  7. What would you like to happen to your pets?
  8. Would you like to leave a donation to your favourite charity?
  9. To whom do you want to leave your property? Think about whether an item has a real value like a house, or sentimental value like a piece of jewellery

Make your will a priority if you don’t have one. Losing someone you love is bad enough, don’t make it worse. Get a will.