So, you don’t have an up-to-date will. It’s no big deal—you’re simply one of the 70% of people who don’t have one. And a majority that large can’t be wrong… right?

If you want to ignore the voice in your head—or that well-meaning loved one—urging you to get your will in order, here are 5 (somewhat silly) reasons you can put it off:

  1. You love letting the government decide how to use your money. No will? No problem. The state will gladly step in and distribute your assets in just the way you’ve always wanted.
  2. You want your long-lost Aunt Gertrude to inherit it all. Surprise! You didn’t even know you had an Aunt Gertrude.
  3. You want your youngest child to forever be known as “unnamed future children.” Your parting gift to your youngest: an identity crisis.
  4. You like family conflict. Who gets this heirloom? What happens to the house? Who will take care of mom? Surely your loved ones will sort it all out—and still speak to each other in the end.
  5. You prefer that none of your estate gets used to do good in the world. You won’t be around to see it, so why does it matter?

All joking aside, there are good and important reasons to create or update your will, including:

  1. You want to care for your loved ones. Having your affairs in order provides you with peace and saves your family heartache and hassle.
  2. You want to share what really matters. Your values are important to you and that’s a legacy you want to hand off to the next generation.
  3. You want your estate plan to reflect your love for the causes you’re passionate about. A gift in your will is a declaration of what matters most and will also sustain our shared work for years to come.

Taking the time to write or update your will is one of the most meaningful ways you can care for the people and causes you love. While it’s easy to delay, the truth is that your will is more than just a legal document—it’s a powerful statement of your values, your priorities, and your heart. So don’t leave your legacy up to chance (or Aunt Gertrude). Instead, take this simple but significant step toward peace of mind and purposeful impact. Your loved ones will thank you.

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