Planning ahead
You may want to make decisions about what happens after you die, such as planning your funeral. This is a difficult conversation to have, but putting plans in place can bring comfort to your loved ones when the time comes, and it can help those closest to you carry out your wishes and celebrate your life in a meaningful way.
In this article, we have provided some guidance on how to have a conversation about end of life planning with those closest to you.
Start a meaningful conversation
Conversations can help better understand who you are and give your family important insights of the things that matter the most to you.
Pre-planning and having a meaningful discussion can have huge benefits on your emotional, physical and mental wellbeing. The Daily Telegraph reports that eight out of ten people have strong wishes for their end of life*.
Two-thirds stated that if people were more relaxed and open talking about death, it would be easier to have their end of life wishes met.
The more you talk, the less of a taboo it becomes.
Learn about what matters most
At CPJ Field we’re all about other peoples’ stories. Here some tips on how to unlock you own family’s story:
Visit a favourite place to eat or drink and invite those most important to you to join you. Have a meal or a cup of tea and have a conversation about what’s most important and the difference you’ve made to one another’s lives.
Use a visual prompt, such as a photo album, souvenir, or memento, to start a conversation.
Think about memorable locations, such as the place where you were married or a favourite place to visit near your home.
Play a song that reminds you of them or think of the reasons you will never forget them.
Share a memory about a holiday you took together and will always remember or a piece of advice that you cherish.
Take notes during or after your conversation, or make an audio recording. Whatever method seems most appropriate and comfortable for where you have your conversation.
*Telegraph Financial Solutions (2017) How to talk about death and funeral planning, 17th March 2017
End of life planning resources
As a family funeral directors we are here to guide and support you every step of the way.
Some questions to get you going
What is your proudest achievement?
What was the one piece of advice you received from your parents or grandparents that you never forgot?
Tell me about the most memorable summer you had growing up.
Tell me about your favourite teacher; what did you learn from him or her?
If you could spend a day doing anything you like, what would it be?
Who has been your greatest inspiration?
