Give Your Family the Best Early Holiday Gift: 5 Steps to Holiday Peace of Mind
The holiday season is full of planning — decorations, parties, meals, travel, and gifts. But there’s one kind of planning most families never think about: what if something unexpected happened?
Between the busyness of the season, unpredictable weather, and the annual wave of flu and colds, accidents or sudden illnesses can happen at any time. Taking just a little time now to plan for the “what-ifs” can give your family peace of mind for the rest of the year — and beyond.
What to Do
Before the season gets hectic, take a few minutes to have a simple, honest conversation with your spouse or loved one about what they should know if something happened to you. And just as importantly, make sure you know the same about them.
Here are five quick things to confirm or update before Thanksgiving:
Emergency and healthcare proxy contact information
Location of key documents — will, trust, insurance policies, advance directive, etc.
How to access accounts and where to find passwords
Review beneficiaries on life insurance, retirement accounts, and investments
One-page household checklist — the essentials that keep your home running smoothly
If you want ready-made tools to help, check out the Prepare Your Affairs Family Manual. This 125-page fill-in-the-blank workbook includes prompts across 15 key topics for household management and family readiness — all designed to make planning easier for both partners.
The Best Gift
The reassurance that comes from having this conversation — and knowing these details are up to date — might be the most meaningful gift you give each other this year.
Preparation isn’t just practical; it’s loving. The confidence, peace of mind, and sense of control that come from being ready allow you to relax and truly enjoy “the most wonderful time of the year.”
Best Regards,
Corey
