Mortality salience is a term psychologists use to describe what happens when we're reminded of our own mortality. Just thinking about death-even in passing-can trigger discomfort.
For many, that discomfort leads to avoidance. Estate planning is a prime example: reviewing wills, trusts, powers of attorney, and medical directives forces us to acknowledge that life is finite. Instead of moving forward, our brains say, "Not today."
But pushing planning aside doesn't make the need go away-it just leaves our loved ones unprotected.
Is Mortality Salience Holding You Back? Take This Mini-Quiz
Answer Yes or No to the following:
- Do you feel uneasy or anxious when someone brings up wills, trusts, or estate planning?
- Have you said to yourself, "I'll get to it later-I'm still healthy"?
- Do you avoid estate planning conversations because they feel too morbid?
- Do you feel overwhelmed by the thought of what happens after you're gone?
- Have you checked off other financial tasks (taxes, insurance, retirement savings) but keep putting off estate planning?
Results:
- Mostly Yes: Mortality salience may be playing a role in your procrastination. The good news? Awareness is the first step, and small actions can break the cycle.
- Mostly No: Fear may not be the main obstacle for you. Logistics-like time, cost, or knowing where to start-may be the real issue.
How to Move Through the Discomfort
Here are a few simple ways to reframe estate planning so mortality salience doesn't keep you stuck:
- Think of it as a gift. You're not just planning for death-you're protecting the people you love most.
- Focus on control. Planning gives you the power to decide, rather than leaving courts or distant relatives to make choices.
- See it as part of living well. Estate planning is about peace of mind, not just the end of life.
Take the First Step Today
You don't have to do everything at once. Even one action-like gathering your important documents, making a list of assets, or scheduling a consultation-can relieve the weight of uncertainty.
If mortality salience has been holding you back, remember this: estate planning isn't about death. It's about living with confidence, knowing your loved ones will be cared for no matter what.
At Lang Hall Law, Chartered, we make the process clear, compassionate, and manageable. If you're ready to take that first step, contact us today.