When you think of the holidays, estate planning might not be the first thing that comes to mind. After all, these festive moments are typically reserved for sharing joy with loved ones, not discussing serious topics like wills and trusts. However, the holiday season is actually one of the best times to begin estate planning. It offers a unique opportunity to connect with family, reflect on the past, and plan for the future.
The holidays bring families together like no other time of year. With loved ones gathered in one place and conversations flowing, the warmth of the season encourages openness. This makes it easier to engage in meaningful topics, like estate planning, without feeling too formal or overwhelming. Topics like creating a trust or other legal documents may feel serious, but a lighthearted and festive environment can make these conversations much more approachable and less overwhelming. Instead of prying into someone’s personal affairs, you might simply share your own intentions or experiences, which can likely inspire others like, parents, grandparents, or siblings, to consider creating or updating their plans.
For families with young children or grandchildren, the idea of leaving behind a legacy can be a compelling motivation. Asking questions such as, “what do you want to leave for future generations?” or “what traditions or memories do you hope will stay in our family forever?” can start conversations in a positive way. This approach emphasizes the love and care behind estate planning rather than the formality of it.
You might even consider leaning into the holiday spirit with a fun and thoughtful gesture, such as gifting a loved one assets in a trust or starting a shared family memory book. These creative presents not only make the topic of estate planning feel more approachable but also tie into the season’s themes of giving and togetherness. By changing the tone behind estate planning in this way, you can transform it into a memorable family activity.
The reflective nature of the holiday season also makes it a perfect time to think about the future. As the year draws to a close, people naturally set goals and make resolutions. Why not make estate planning one of them? Make it a goal to draft or update your will, designate a healthcare proxy, or organize your financial documents—tasks that can be just as fulfilling as achieving a fitness milestone or reaching a financial target. You could even turn this into a family resolution where everyone vows to take steps toward securing their future.
The holidays are also a perfect time to take stock of what you have and reassess your priorities. Many people use this season to declutter and reflect, making it a great opportunity to incorporate estate planning into this mindset. You can take inventory of your assets, organize important documents, and ensure your retirement plans align with your goals. With family gathered, it’s also an ideal time to have casual, collaborative discussions about practical matters, such as including certain relatives in your will or naming them as powers of attorney.
Estate planning during the holidays is one of the greatest gifts you can give to your loved ones. It ensures that those you care about are taken care of and that your legacy reflects your values and intentions. As you share laughs, meals, and memories this holiday season, consider starting the conversation about estate planning. It’s a thoughtful way to honor the past, plan for the future, and cherish the present with the people who mean the most to you.
