When most people hear “getting their affairs in order,” “estate planning,” or “end-of-life planning,” their brain might conjure up the following type of image: an elderly relative sitting at the kitchen table, shuffling a stack of legal papers and muttering about “putting everything in order.”
But here is the truth: getting your affairs sorted is not just for retirement. Whether you are 35, 55, or 85, there are powerful reasons, both practical and psychological, to start sooner rather than later.
If you’re new to this topic, you might find it helpful to read The Importance of Proactive End-of-Life Planning, where I share why planning ahead matters and how to approach it without feeling overwhelmed.
Let’s talk about why this matters, why so many of us avoid it, and how you can take the first step without feeling overwhelmed..
The Reality: Life Doesn’t Always Wait for Someday
It is human nature to assume that end-of-life planning is something you can get to later – when the kids are grown, when work slows down, when you “feel older.”
Consider this:
According to the CDC, accidents and unexpected health emergencies are a leading cause of death among adults in early and middle adulthood, and they can leave families unprepared. While they are relatively uncommon, they are not so unusual that they should be ignored.
The AARP reports that only about 40 percent of Americans have any estate planning documents at all, and the rate is even lower among those under 55.
Research from the American Bar Association shows that many families face weeks or months of stress trying to locate critical information when someone becomes incapacitated unexpectedly. This is a reality I have also seen confirmed time and again in my own research and conversations with clients.
Getting your affairs sorted early does not mean you are a pessimist. It means you are prepared.
It is similar to buying car insurance. You do not plan to crash, but you want you and your family protected if you do.
Why We Procrastinate: The Psychology Behind Avoidance
If you have been putting end-of-life planning off, you are in excellent company.
There are real psychological reasons this topic is so easy to shove to the bottom of your to-do list:
Terror Management Theory
Psychologists have shown that when we think about mortality, our brains sometimes switch into avoidance mode. It is uncomfortable. So we distract ourselves with easier tasks, like reorganizing the garage or binging another Netflix series.
Present Bias
Behavioral economists call this our tendency to overvalue short-term comfort over long-term benefits. In other words, future you will handle it, right?
Optimism Bias
Most of us secretly believe bad things are less likely to happen to us than to other people.
Overwhelm and Decision Fatigue
It can feel like an endless list of decisions: wills, healthcare proxies, digital passwords. Where do you even start?
If any of this sounds familiar, take a deep breath. This is completely normal.
The Hidden Benefits of Getting Your Affairs In Order Early
We tend to think of end-of-life planning as something you do for your loved ones. That is true, but it also benefits you in ways you might not expect.
Here are some of the advantages research has found:
Less Stress and Anxiety
Multiple studies, including those published in JAMA and the BMJ, have shown that making advance plans reduces anxiety and improves peace of mind. Once decisions are documented, people report feeling lighter and more in control.
Better Alignment with Your Values
When you plan early, you have time to think carefully about what matters to you – whether that is how your assets are distributed, your medical preferences, or the kind of legacy you want to leave. You do not have to rush these choices in a crisis.
Smoother Execution for Families
According to AARP surveys, the lack of clear instructions is one of the top sources of family conflict and stress after a sudden loss. Having your affairs sorted means your loved ones will not be left guessing or arguing.
Time to Update and Refine
Starting early lets you revisit your plans as your life evolves. Get married? Have kids? Launch a business? You can adjust your documents and instructions without scrambling.
Why End-Of-Life Planning Matters Even in Your 30s or 40s
You might be thinking, I am too young for end-of-life planning.
But here is the thing. There are specific reasons younger adults and couples should consider getting their affairs sorted:
Dependents
If you have children, you need to name guardians and document your wishes.
Property and Debt
Even modest estates need clarity on how assets and liabilities should be handled.
Digital Life
From your social media accounts to cloud storage, your digital footprint does not sort itself.
Healthcare Preferences
If you were in an accident tomorrow, who would speak for you?
Starting now does not mean you expect the worst. It means you care enough to be prepared.
Practical Tips to Finally Get Started
You do not have to tackle everything at once. Here are some science-backed strategies to overcome avoidance:
Break it into bite-sized steps
Instead of telling yourself, I need to finish everything, set a goal to complete one piece, like listing your key contacts or outlining your healthcare preferences.
Schedule a Planning Session
Put a specific date on your calendar. Treat it like any other important appointment.
Use Milestones as Triggers
Marriage, a new job, the birth of a child – all are natural opportunities to update or start your planning.
Get Support
Talk with family and professionals. You do not have to figure it all out alone.
How the Ultimate End-of-Life Planner for Peace of Mind Makes It Manageable
I created the Ultimate End-of-Life Planner for Peace of Mind because I saw how many people feel paralyzed by not knowing where to start.
Unlike a random checklist or a blank binder, this planner guides you through each decision with context, prompts, and reassurance.
Here is what makes it different:
Step-by-Step Worksheets
From legal documents to personal wishes, you will have clear spaces to record everything important.
Helpful Reminders and Callout Boxes
Know what is optional, what is essential, and why it matters.
Examples and Explanations
Understand each concept without feeling overwhelmed by jargon.
Flexible Organization
Start wherever you feel ready, and skip around as needed.
Digital Toolkit
Downloadable forms and an update log to keep everything current over time.
It is not just about filling in the blanks – it is about giving you confidence and clarity.
Closing Thoughts on End-Of-Life Planning
Legacy planning and getting your affairs sorted does not have to be a giant, scary project reserved for your eighties.
It is a gift you give yourself and everyone you care about – a way to reduce stress, avoid confusion, and ensure your values are honored.
And the best part? You do not have to do it alone.
If you are ready to start, explore the planner to take your first small, meaningful step.
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