Why Thinking About Death Can Help You Live a Better Life
Have you ever wondered why thinking about death could actually help you live a better, fuller life? In this article, you’ll gain a clearer perspective on what truly matters, feel more in control of your future, and learn how a little planning today can bring peace of mind for you and the people you love.
Most people don’t like talking about death.
I get it.
As a lawyer, I see this hesitation every day, and as a human being, I understand why it feels uncomfortable.
But here’s the honest truth I’ve learned through years of working with families: thinking about death isn’t morbid, it’s actually one of the healthiest things you can do for your life.
When we avoid the topic, we often drift through life on autopilot.
When we face it, even gently, we start living with more purpose.
Thinking about death has a way of sharpening our focus.
It reminds us that time is limited, which makes our choices more meaningful. Even the ancient stoic philosophers, like Marcus Aurelius, lived by the moto Memento Mori - remember that you shall die - meaning that we make better choices when re remember that life is short and we should live it to the fullest.
People who reflect on this tend to prioritise relationships, look after their health, and stop putting off important decisions.
That includes legal and financial decisions too.
I’ve seen clients who only start planning after a crisis, and I’ve seen others who plan early and live with far less stress.
The difference is clarity.
When you accept that life isn’t endless, you naturally ask better questions.
Am I spending time on what matters?
Have I protected the people I love?
Would my family know what to do if something happened to me?
These questions aren’t about fear.
They’re about care.
Thinking about death early allows you to make calm, rational choices rather than rushed ones.
It gives you the chance to decide who will look after your children, who will manage your affairs, and how your assets should be distributed.
That kind of planning is an act of love.
It also reduces the emotional and financial burden on your family during an already difficult time.
I often tell clients that estate planning isn’t about preparing to die, it’s about preparing to live well.
Once these matters are sorted, people feel lighter.
They sleep better.
They focus more on living, not worrying.
There’s also something empowering about taking control.
Instead of leaving decisions to chance or the courts, you decide your legacy.
You decide the story you leave behind.
And interestingly, once people face this topic head-on, they often become more present in their everyday life.
They value small moments.
They communicate more honestly.
They stop postponing important conversations.
Thinking about death doesn’t shorten your life.
If anything, it helps you live it more intentionally.
Facing mortality isn’t about fear, it’s about clarity, intention, and care for the people you love.
When you allow yourself to think about the end, you often discover how to live better right now.
A little thought about the future can remove a lot of stress from the present and protect the people who matter most.
If this article made you pause and reflect, that’s a good place to start.
If you need help turning those thoughts into a clear plan, we’re here at HazeLegal to support you every step of the way.
DISCLAIMER
This commentary is published by HazeLegal for general information only—it’s not legal advice. If you have questions or need advice for your specific situation, we recommend speaking to a lawyer or reaching out to us at http://hazelegal.com.au before making any decisions.
HazeLegal works closely with our sister company, WebWills, to bring you these resources.
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