By Gregg Gonzalez, CFP®
When we think about leaving a legacy, most people immediately imagine wills, assets, and estate taxes. But for many women, legacy planning goes beyond finances. It’s about values, relationships, life lessons, and the mark we leave on our loved ones and communities.
Women often serve as the emotional and logistical backbone of families. Their influence through caregiving, communication, and leadership extends far beyond a dollar amount. That’s why values-based estate planning is such a powerful and meaningful approach.
1. Define What Legacy Means to You
Legacy isn’t just about who gets what. It’s about what matters most.
Reflect on questions like:
- What values do I want to pass on?
- What causes or communities matter most to me?
- How do I want to be remembered?
These answers can help shape not only your estate documents, but also how you live and give during your lifetime.
2. Document Your Wishes Clearly
Women are often the organizers of family traditions, stories, and caregiving decisions. Yet without a formal plan, loved ones may be left guessing.
What to do:
- Create or update a will and consider a revocable living trust.
- Choose a healthcare proxy and financial power of attorney.
- Write an ethical will – a personal letter that shares your beliefs, hopes, and memories.
This emotional component can become one of the most cherished parts of your legacy.
3. Plan for the People You Love
Women are often caregivers for children, parents, and spouses. Estate planning helps ensure the people you care for are protected, even when you’re no longer there.
Smart steps:
- Name guardians for minor children or dependents.
- Consider creating trusts to manage how and when assets are distributed.
- Talk openly with your family about your wishes, including your values around money.
4. Align Your Assets with Your Intentions
Make sure your financial accounts reflect your goals and beliefs.
This might include:
- Donating to causes or institutions that reflect your passions.
- Setting up a donor-advised fund or charitable trust.
- Leaving assets to grandchildren with guidelines for education or service.
You can also designate charities as beneficiaries on retirement accounts or life insurance policies without needing to change your will.
5. Empower the Next Generation
Women often lead by example. Passing down financial wisdom, responsibility, and resilience is one of the most impactful parts of a legacy.
Try this:
- Talk openly about your financial journey.
- Involve adult children or trusted individuals in your estate planning process.
- Share family history and life lessons through journals, videos, or conversations.
Legacy Is a Living Process
Values-based estate planning is not just about preparing for the end; it’s about living with intention today. When women craft their legacy with clarity and care, they create a ripple effect of meaning that lasts generations.
Ready to start building your intentional legacy?
Let’s have the conversation. Your story, your values, and your vision deserve to be preserved and passed on beautifully and confidently.
Content in this material is for general information only and not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual.
This information is not intended to be a substitute for specific individualized legal advice. We suggest that you discuss your specific situation with a qualified legal advisor.
