In the past, we’ve discussed how to talk to your loved ones about funeral arrangements and how to document your end of life wishes. Making end of life arrangements in advance isn’t something people like to think about, but if 2020 taught us anything it’s that life can be unpredictable. One way that you can make things easier to manage despite the unknowns is funeral planning.
If you’re still on the fence about whether or not you’re ready to take on end of life planning we’ve outlined some of the top benefits to make it a resolution for the coming year.
Why New Year Resolutions Matter
First, let’s take a moment to discuss why resolutions in general are important. Resolutions are simply goals that we have that we’d like to accomplish in the next 12 months.
The concept of making resolutions is popular because the start of the New Year is like a clean slate. We can begin the year fresh by reflecting on what we did the year before and focusing on what’s most important. In other words, it’s the perfect state of mind for setting goals and getting motivated to reach them.
Something like advanced funeral planning takes a fair amount of motivation since it isn’t a desirable task to most people. That’s why the start of a New Year could be the perfect time to schedule an appointment with a few funeral directors to discuss your options.
Advanced Funeral Arrangements Are Easier on Your Family
Many people are motivated to plan funeral arrangements in advance because they don’t want to put the burden on their loved ones. Their lives are just as stressful and hectic, but loved ones have the added pressure of trying to guess what you would have wanted. And there could be disagreement about what should be done.
The majority of people who make advanced funeral arrangements note that they did so to ease the burden on their family members. It basically puts things on autopilot so the family can be there for each other during the grieving process rather than at the funeral home making plans.
Advanced Funeral Planning Can Save Money
Another top motivator for advanced funeral planning is affordability. When a loved one passes away and the family isn’t prepared they don’t have the luxury of price comparisons – at least not in the way you would if you made funeral arrangements in advance.
Planning in advance so that your preferences are followed eliminates needlessly spending on elaborate services if you prefer something more simple or a green cremation. Your family won’t feel like they have to go all out when you’ve already mapped out how things should be done. Just being able to order an urn or casket in advance can save a family hundreds of dollars and gives you more options.
Planning an affordable memorial service is also easier when you have time to think about it and make arrangements. This may be something that’s completely separate from the funeral home services.
Use the FTC’s Funeral Costs and Pricing Checklist as a guide when you are comparing prices.
Less Likely to Make Emotionally-Based Decisions When You Plan in Advance
Part of the reason why funerals are more expensive when they aren’t pre-arranged is because people are more likely to make decisions based on their emotions. And when a loved one has just passed away emotions are running high. It’s easy to lose sight of other important factors when you’re focused on honoring your loved one.
Advanced funeral arrangements minimize the emotional effect. You’ll be able to think about things more logically and can take your time to think through the options. Pre-planning also completely saves a loved one from the emotional toll of making decisions shortly after losing you.
You’ll Feel More Prepared for the Future
Peace of mind could be the biggest benefit of making funeral arrangements in advance. It’s one less thing you have to worry about and consider. When life seems less predictable than in the past, having this little bit of control can make a difference.
If you’re interested in learning more about green cremation services we’re here to help. You can call, text or email Green Cremation Texas any hour of the day to receive more information about the process, costs and how our services compare to alternatives.
