No more excuses! Here are ten common excuses people give for non-pre-planning, along with responses that can help address those concerns:
1. ”I need to speak with my children.”
Response: While it’s important to involve your children, many find that discussing end-of-life plans can be uncomfortable. By pre-planning, you can relieve them of the burden of making decisions during a difficult time.
2. “I’m not dying.”
Response: That’s great to hear! I hope you can say that for many years to come. Pre-planning is not just for those who are ill; it’s a proactive step that ensures your wishes are honored when the time comes, regardless of when that may be.
3. “I don’t want to think about it.”
Response: It’s completely natural to avoid the topic, but pre-planning can provide peace of mind. Knowing that everything is taken care of can alleviate stress for both you and your loved ones.
4. “It’s too expensive.”
Response: Pre-planning can save money in the long run. By locking in prices now, you can avoid inflation and rising costs in the future.
5. “I don’t know where to start.”
Response: Many resources are available to guide you through the pre-planning process. Professionals like me are here to help you outline your wishes and make the process manageable.
6. “I want to keep my options open.”
Response: Pre-planning doesn’t mean you can’t change your mind. It simply provides a framework for your wishes while allowing flexibility if your preferences evolve.
7. “I’m too young to think about this.”
Response: Pre-planning is not just for the elderly; unexpected events can happen at any age. Planning ahead ensures that your wishes are known and respected.
8. “I don’t want to burden my family.”
Response: By pre-planning, you are relieving your family of the burden of making difficult decisions during a time of grief. It’s a thoughtful gift to them.
9. “I’m not sure what I want.”
Response: That’s okay! Pre-planning can be a gradual process. You can start with general ideas and refine your wishes over time as you think about what matters most to you.
10. “I’ll do it later.”
Response: Procrastination is common, but waiting can lead to uncertainty for your loved ones. Taking the time to pre-plan now can ensure that your wishes are clear and respected when the time comes.
I write this not only to highlight the importance of pre-planning but also to help you see that believing you don’t need to plan is simple not sensible. None of us are immortal, and it’s crucial to acknowledge that we all need to prepare for the inevitable.
As your cemetery professional, I am here to guide you through this process and answer any concerns or questions you may have. With over two decades of experience, I’ve heard it all and have dealt with more situations than you can imagine. It’s truly urgent to get informed and act. Remember, Jackie Cares, and I’m here to help you every step of the way.