All major decisions require plenty of thought and consideration, but that can be especially true when it comes to planning a funeral. In addition to all the costs and practical details, there’s the emotional toll of considering one’s own mortality. However, there are many good reasons to set up your funeral plans in advance. Here’s a look at why it might be a good idea, and how to get started:
Why Plan Your Funeral?
Planning your own funeral might initially seem odd. There are people who would consider the activity excessively morbid or even bad luck. However, superstition or a fear of death shouldn’t prevent you from taking this practical measure.
Simply put, if your funeral is planned, it takes work off of your loved ones’ shoulders. Grieving is difficult, and they may be more likely to make poor financial decisions or rush through plans in their heightened emotional state. By planning your funeral in advance, you can do it while calm and collected.
Moreover, planning a funeral may help you feel a greater sense of peace and acceptance about your mortality. After all, death is natural and happens to everyone. Finding a way to come to terms with the reality of death will allow you to enjoy life without fear of what comes next.
Covering Costs
The first thing to consider when planning your funeral is how to cover the costs. Funerals and other end-of-life expenses can add up quickly. Depending on your current savings and income, you may be able to pay ahead for your funeral outright. Alternatively, you may want to consider creating a savings account specifically for your final expenses.
Another option for covering funeral costs is burial insurance, also known as final expense life insurance. This type of policy is best for people in good health who are younger than 70 years old. It covers the cost of your funeral arrangements, and it can also go toward paying off debts, such as medical bills or personal loans. However, there are some medical conditions and issues that can disqualify you from coverage. If you look to providers like Lincoln Heritage insurance, check out the reviews online to get a sense of reputation and to see which agency will suit your needs best.
Personalizing Your Funeral
One of the biggest advantages of planning your own funeral is that you get to make decisions that you know will reflect the real you. Not only will this relieve the pressure on your family to come up with the perfect memorial, but it will also allow them to grieve productively. This way, your funeral isn’t just an homage – it’s a message from you to the people you love.
Take some time to consider what matters to you most when it comes to your funeral. Are there any religious or cultural traditions you value? Would you prefer cremation or burial? Is there any particular music or imagery you think should be included? These are just a few of the questions you can use to figure out how to make your funeral the perfect celebration of your life.
Caring For Yourself
Although there are psychological benefits to accepting death, it can also be emotionally draining. Considering your own mortality, as well as imagining your loved ones in pain can take a serious toll on your mood. That’s why it’s important to plan some form of self-care for after you’ve worked on any aspect of your funeral.
This can be as simple as a nice walk in the park or as extravagant as a weekend at a spa. The important thing is that it’s something that will allow you to relax and give yourself a little bit of time for reflection. Death is natural, yes, but that doesn’t make it easy to think about.
Planning your funeral gives you a sense of control and involvement in your memorial. It also gives you a chance to face death and ease the burden of fear, making life more enjoyable. Finally, it lessens the workload for your grieving loved ones, making it a wonderful final gift.
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