Writing a Will, The Emotional Hurdle
The process of writing a will can be emotionally taxing. It includes your wishes for what should happen to your loved ones and belongings after you pass away, which can bring up sad thoughts and evoke a lot of feelings. This makes you consider your own mortality, and let’s face it, that’s not easy.
You can read our guide on what to include and not include in your will for practical insights. Or for government guidance on the process, see GOV.UK – Making a will
This blog looks at the emotional journey when making a will.
Emotions That Crop Up When You Write a Will
People may experience a range of emotions when writing a will, including:
Fear – Fear of dying, dread of leaving loved ones behind, and fear of the unknown.
Sadness – Sadness for the things you will miss and the pain your loved ones will endure as a result of your death.
Anger – Fury at the need for these decisions, anger at the unfairness of death.
Regret – Feelings of regret for leaving your loved ones behind and guilt for not giving them enough.
Confusion – About the legal process and what to put in your will. You may want advice on how to make a will online or what to include in your will.
It is important and also healthy to acknowledge and accept these feelings rather than trying to suppress them.
Advice on How to Make a Will
The following guidance can assist you in overcoming the emotional difficulties involved in drafting a will:
- Have patience and resist the urge to do the activity right away. Allow yourself time to reflect on your objectives and process your emotions.
- Have a conversation with a trustworthy person. Speak with a friend, relative, or therapist to process your feelings and feel supported. You can also find emotional support resources at Mind’s bereavement page.
- If you struggle with the emotional aspects of writing a will, you can seek professional advice.
- Remember that drafting a will is a present to your family members. It allows you to ensure that your last wishes are respected and fulfilled after your death. By acknowledging and accepting your emotions, you can significantly ease the writing process.
Being aware of and prepared to deal with these possible triggers is essential. In addition to the emotions already mentioned, creating a will may bring up other distressing memories or experiences. For example, if you have recently lost a loved one, writing your own will may trigger sentiments of loss and grief. Or, drafting your will may force you to deal with a strained connection with a family member.
If family tensions arise during will preparation, our article on resolving conflicts regarding inheritancemay help
If you require assistance with probate matters, contact Jersey Probate on 0203 9859556.
