Planning for healthcare directives, wills, and end-of-life care involves discussing mortality and making decisions that reflect shared values and concerns. 

It was a shock when Sarah’s college friend passed away unexpectedly. Seeing her friends family struggle picking up the pieces and the financial insecurity that was likely to come, Sarah and her Michael found themselves considering a subject of profound significance: end-of-life care planning. They realized that this decision was not just about preparing for the inevitable, but about shaping the legacy of their love making sure their children were cared for in the future. As they researched the vast field of options they became overwhelmed . The uncertainty and the emotional strain was causing them to avoid the subject and procrastinate. This but strain on their relationship, and soon they were arguing about who was avoiding the subject the most. After waking up at 3 A.M. Michael decided to look into the 20 Minute Decision as a way to get back on track, make the decisions that needed to be made in the shortest amount of time possible, and get a good nights sleep again.

Working with their consultant, they each worked out what mattered to them and what possibilities mattered most to them.

Factors Considered:

Sarah’s Factors:

1. Healthcare Directives (Ranking: 3): Sarah prioritized discussing and documenting preferences for end-of-life medical care, ensuring that their wishes for a dignified departure were honored.
2. Legacy Planning (Ranking: 1): With a tender heart, Sarah reflected on the legacy they wished to leave behind for their family and friends, ensuring that their values and memories would endure beyond their time.
3. Open Communication (Ranking: 2): Sarah believed in the power of open and honest communication, establishing a safe space for discussing fears, hopes, and wishes with Michael.

Michael’s Factors:

1. Wills and Estates (Ranking: 3): Michael recognized the importance of outlining how their assets and possessions would be distributed and managed after their passing, ensuring clarity and peace of mind for their loved ones.
2. Power of Attorney (Ranking: 1): As the stoic pillar of their union, Michael designated individuals to make legal and financial decisions in case of incapacity, providing a sense of security and stability for their future.
3. Funeral and Burial Wishes (Ranking: 2): Michael considered preferences for funeral arrangements, burial, or cremation, acknowledging the importance of honoring their wishes with dignity and respect.

As Sarah and Michael shared their values about end-of-life care planning, they were guided by the knowledge of their value-based hierarchy of factors. They engaged in heartfelt conversations, allowing each other to express their fears, hopes, and wishes without reservation. They recognized that while the practicalities of documentation were important, the true essence of their decision lay in the legacy of love they wished to leave behind. They shared the value structures they had developed and began to see how the other was motivated. They could build this together and make sure they and their family was protected.