Sara Dahlen | Aug 01 2025 14:00
August: A Time to Focus on Your Will
August is National Make-A-Will Month—a timely opportunity to spotlight an often-overlooked yet critical topic. Many people, especially younger adults, may believe wills are only for the elderly or wealthy. This misconception couldn't be further from the truth. Creating a will is a proactive and caring decision, regardless of age or income level.
You Decide What Happens to Your Things
Even if you don’t own a house or have major investments, a will ensures that whatever you do have—like your car, bank accounts, digital assets, or pets—goes to the right people. Imagine having peace of mind knowing your beloved pet will be looked after by someone you trust or your cherished digital photos end up with a family member who values them.
Plan for Your Children's Future
If you’re a parent, having a will is especially critical. A will is how you legally name who you want to take care of your kids if something unexpected happens. Being able to choose a guardian gives parents reassurance that their children will be raised in alignment with their values and preferences.
Make Medical and Legal Choices Clear
Some wills include a living will or health care directives, which let you outline what you’d want if you couldn’t speak for yourself. That peace of mind isn’t age-dependent. Imagine a young adult unexpectedly facing a medical crisis; a living will ensure their medical care mirrors their wishes, lifting the decision-making burden from family members during a stressful time.
Simplify Matters for Your Loved Ones
Having a will in place prevents confusion, legal delays, and stress for the people you care about most. It leaves no room for disputes or uncertainty during an already difficult time, allowing your loved ones to focus on honoring your memory instead of navigating legal hurdles. Making a will is a responsible and compassionate step that helps protect loved ones and gives you control over your wishes. Use this month as motivation to either create a will or encourage younger family members and friends to do so. Peace of mind is not something reserved for later in life—it is a gift that can be cherished and activated at any stage.
