Doing Nothing Is a Decision
It’s human nature to put off difficult decisions—especially ones wrapped in emotion, uncertainty, or fear.
As an estate planning consultant, I see it all the time: clients know they should make a Will or set up lasting powers of attorney, but they hesitate. Sometimes it’s because they feel too young, too healthy, or too overwhelmed. Other times, it’s because the choices are just hard—who should care for the children, how to divide the estate fairly, what to say to loved ones.
But here’s the truth that many people don’t realise: doing nothing is still a decision. And often, it’s a decision with real—and sometimes painful—consequences for the people left behind.
Why does inaction have a price tag?
Let’s talk first about money. When someone dies without a valid Will, their estate is handled according to the laws of intestacy. These are rigid rules, created by the state. They are outdated and not tailored to your unique family dynamics or wishes. And they can lead to outcomes you wouldn’t choose, such as:
A long-term partner receiving nothing.
Children from previous relationships being left out or left waiting.
Unnecessary inheritance tax bills that could have been avoided with simple planning.
Doing nothing might feel easier now, but it can be much more expensive and stressful for your loved ones later.
Who chooses if you don’t?
Imagine this: both your child’s parents pass away suddenly, and there are no Wills. You haven’t chosen a guardian. Now that decision falls to the courts, led by social services. Not only is this emotionally taxing for those involved, but it also introduces uncertainty, delay, and the possibility of conflict among family members.
The same goes for lasting power of attorney. If you lose mental capacity without naming someone you trust to make decisions on your behalf, your family might need to apply through the Court of Protection. This is a slow, costly, and impersonal process—all while your care or finances hang in the balance.
Avoiding the Hard Decisions Doesn’t Make Them Go Away
I understand why people hesitate. Naming guardians, allocating inheritance, discussing end-of-life care. These are emotionally loaded conversations. But the uncomfortable truth is that by not choosing, you’re still making a choice. And too often, it’s one that leaves your family more vulnerable, not less.
Taking control of your estate planning doesn’t just protect your assets. It gives clarity. It reduces conflict. It provides comfort to the people you love most, who will already be grieving when the time comes.
How can small steps make a big difference?
The good news? You don’t have to do everything at once.
Estate planning is a process, not a one-time event. Start with a conversation. Chat with your spouse, your children, or a trusted professional. Ask questions. Explore options. Then take the first small step: writing a basic will, naming a guardian,and setting up a power of attorney.
You can revise and refine things over time. What matters is that you’ve started.
Don’t Let Inertia Be Your Legacy
You’ll find an empowering courage in facing these choices now, while you can. Because the most loving, responsible thing you can do for your family isn’t just about money or property—it’s about making things easier when life gets hardest.
Remember: inaction is not neutrality—it’s a choice with its own set of consequences. If you want to shape the future for your loved ones, you need to make your wishes known.
Let’s start that conversation today.
If you’re ready to take the first step—or even if you’re just curious—I’d be honoured to help. Estate planning doesn’t have to be daunting. With the right guidance, it can be simple, straightforward and give peace of mind. Perhaps the best outcome certainty, but avoiding unnecessary tax and expense is a close second.
It is easy to make contact today. Click the button below, and let’s start talking.