Resolution #1: Make a Living Will

As we bid farewell to another year and usher in the promise of new beginnings, many of us are contemplating resolutions that enhance our well-being and bring a sense of security to our lives. While common resolutions often focus on physical health, career aspirations, or personal growth, it's equally essential to consider one's overall life plan. As we step into 2024, let's shed light on an often overlooked but profoundly significant resolution: creating a living will.

1. Understanding the Importance of a Living Will

A living will, also known as an advance healthcare directive, is a legal document that outlines your preferences for medical treatment in case you become unable to communicate your wishes. It serves as a guide for your loved ones and healthcare providers, ensuring that your desires are respected in times of medical uncertainty.

2. Empowering Yourself and Your Loved Ones

Creating a living will empowers you to make decisions about the medical care you receive, even if you cannot convey your choices verbally. This not only provides peace of mind for you but also relieves your loved ones of the burden of making difficult decisions on your behalf during emotionally challenging times.

3. Ensuring Your Wishes Are Respected

A living will allows you to specify your preferences regarding life-sustaining treatments, organ donation, and other crucial medical decisions. By putting your wishes in writing, you ensure that your values and beliefs guide your healthcare, preventing any confusion or conflict among family members.

4. Adapting to Changing Circumstances

Life is unpredictable, and health circumstances can change in an instant. By revisiting and updating your living will regularly, you can adapt it to reflect your current

preferences and any changes in your health status. This adaptability ensures that your document remains a relevant and accurate reflection of your desires.

5. Taking the Burden off Your Loved Ones

In the absence of a living will, family members may find themselves grappling with difficult decisions, potentially leading to disagreements and emotional distress. A living will serves as a compassionate gift to your loved ones, sparing them from the burden of making critical choices without your guidance.

6. Making the Process Accessible

Creating a living will doesn't have to be a daunting task. With the availability of online resources and legal assistance, the process has become more accessible than ever. Take the time to research and understand the requirements for creating a living will in your jurisdiction, and consider seeking professional guidance if needed.

As you reflect on your aspirations for the coming year, consider adding the creation of a living will to your list of resolutions. This seemingly simple act can have profound implications for your peace of mind and the well-being of your loved ones. By taking charge of your healthcare decisions, you embrace a sense of control over your future and contribute to a legacy of compassion and thoughtful planning. Let 2024 be the year you prioritize your health, well-being, and the certainty of your wishes being respected through the creation of a living will.

-Robert Goldberg

Robert Goldberg & Associates

770-229-5729