Simple Things You Can Do to Be Prepared
Life is unpredictable. One minute, everything is running smoothly, and the next, a sudden event—big or small—can turn things upside down. While we can’t control everything, we can take simple steps to make sure we (and the people we love) are better prepared for the unexpected.
Here are 10 simple things you can do today to make sure you’re ready if life throws a curveball your way.
- Create (or Update) a Will or Trust Document
No one likes to think about it, but having a Will or Trust is one of the most important ways to ensure your loved ones aren’t left scrambling. These documents outlines who gets what and can prevent unnecessary stress and legal battles. I can personally vouch for how difficult it can be to settle an estate, especially out of state. If you already have one, now’s a great time to review and update it. Save that baby in Safe and make sure someone else has a copy of the document just in case!
- Make a Medical Directive
If you were unable to speak for yourself, would your family know what kind of medical care you’d want? A medical directive or Healthcare Power of Attorney is different from a Will. This document specifically spells out your wishes for treatment and designates someone to make decisions on your behalf if needed.
- Compile Important Documents
Gather essential documents like your birth certificate, passport, insurance policies, and financial account details in one secure location. Make sure a trusted person knows where to find them in case of an emergency.
- Set Up Emergency Contacts in Your Phone
Most smartphones allow you to set “In Case of Emergency” (ICE) contacts. Make sure your most trusted person is listed so that first responders or hospital staff know whom to call if something happens.
- Have a Plan for your Phone and Passwords
If someone needed to access your important accounts, could they? Keep a secure, up-to-date list of passwords or use a password manager. You can make sure someone can access your phone if something happens by setting up a “Legacy Contact”. On an iPhone, Go to Settings > Your Name > Sign-In & Security > Legacy Contact. On Android: Go to your Google Account setting and find the “inactive Account manager” or “Legacy Contact” options.
- Designate a Browser History Cleaner 😉
Look, we all have some internet searches we’d rather not be part of our legacy. Designate a trusted friend to clear your browser history if you suddenly become incapacitated. True friends don’t let embarrassing searches live on.
- Prepare a “Grab-and-Go” Bag
A small bag with essentials—copies of IDs, some cash, medications, and emergency contacts—can be a lifesaver in unexpected situations. Whether it’s a natural disaster or a last-minute hospital visit, having one ready can make all the difference.
- Have a Conversation with Your Loved Ones
Beyond documents and lists, make sure your loved ones know your wishes. Talking about these things might feel uncomfortable, but it’s much better than leaving them guessing during a stressful time.
- Choose Your Digital Legacy Executor
Who will take care of your social media accounts? If you don’t want to be eternally “active” online, designate someone to handle your digital presence. Facebook, Google, and Apple all offer ways to set a legacy contact who can manage your accounts.
- Record Messages for Your Loved Ones with Wonder Capsule
When the unexpected happens, the most meaningful thing you can leave behind is your voice, your love, and your memories. Wonder Capsule allows you to record messages for your loved ones—whether it’s words of wisdom, encouragement, or just a reminder of how much they mean to you. It’s one of the simplest, most powerful ways to ensure your presence is felt, no matter what.
