During a recent webinar, a retired woman asked if there were any key areas she may be overlooking with regard to her estate plan and final expenses. My response wasn’t exactly what she expected. I suggested writing an Ethical Will on Facebook in order to give family and friends a useful sense of her lineage, express what is important to her, and to add her wisdom to future generations.
For those of you who are not familiar with Ethical Wills or legacy letters, the idea is to attach a personal note to your final wishes. It’s not a legal document, but instead, an opportunity to express and share family values, lifetime lessons, and perspective with those you care most about. The concept is ancient in nature and according to some experts, dates back some 3000 years.
On the surface, it’s easy to see the inherent benefits of creating one. However, the issue I have with more traditional forms of the process is that too often they become vault documents. Things that are tucked away until one dies. Which is why I suggest people consider using Facebook to make their Ethical Will part of their everyday life and influence now instead of just later.
That’s not to say the more traditional options including a fancy book, PowerPoint, or even video aren’t worthwhile. They can add tremendous value, and frankly, there are some things that are best said or done in private. Still, if you truly want to share family history, perspective to future generations, and leave a legacy you’ll be remembered for, it’s best to do it as you move along in life rather than hoping to squeeze it all in at your funeral.
Using social media and technology for your Ethical Will offers a fresh perspective on the infinite role of the internet. People often warn younger generations to be careful what they post because it will always be there. Well, the same holds turn for the good stuff. That means your messages and memories will always be a click away and easily accessible to future generations who prefer digital formats.
A simple way to start creating your Ethical Will on Facebook is to identify three or four themes you want to focus on. Fortunately, Facebook culture has made a couple of them very easy. Start by using Throw Back Thursday (TBT tag) to share family history. Some of the most liked and commented posts are those of old photos and nostalgic images. Whether it was a summer trip as kids, a first date, or picture of grandparents on their wedding day, you can not only preserve the memory but also hand it off to future generations by tagging them in it so that it’s linked to their profile and albums.
Another Facebook feature you can use to pass along your personal values is the share button. There are tons of meaningful quotes, videos, and other things you can personalize and re-post for family and friends to admire and associate with you. Whether it’s a funny clip of a grandma dancing, kids laughing, a song from your high school graduation, or quote that can provide comfort to someone who may be hurting, it’s a simple a way to express yourself. Not to mention, a great way to add a dose of reality and gratitude from days gone by and sacrifices you made.
Another, often overlooked opportunity for legacy planning on Facebook is the ability to discuss money. Simply status updates that say you’re meeting with your financial advisor, finally paid off your mortgage, or that you’re updating your Will can grab the attention of heirs and let them know what’s important to you. It may not get the most likes or comments but ingrains the role these things play in a worthwhile life. You can also have some fun with it by posting pictures of yourself on a cruise, at a charity event, or in your new classic car, suggesting your kids or grand kids return to school since you just spent their inheritance.
Along the same lines, Facebook can help you add some context and perspective to your posts. Whether you’re volunteering for a particular organization or group, on an annual family vacation, or just fishing or knitting to practice patience, pictures of you in action can not only be worth a thousand words but also thousands of dollars by emphasizing the importance of these things over any inherited money. What’s more, by inviting others to take part, you can grow closer with them in person instead of just over the internet. In any event, focusing on themes like family history, personal values, money, and context, you can keep your posts organized and memorable.
Overall, Ethical Wills are a powerful way to share and pass on what's most important to you. While there are many useful methods to accomplish this, using Facebook to facilitate at least part of your message can not only leave a tangible trail for family and friends to follow, but to also absorb and remember you forever. Therefore, start making difference today but simply sharing this post with your own thoughts and insights.
