What is an Ethical Will?

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• Ethical Wills are a short concise summary of values and lessons, and a way to share life experiences.  They are the heart of a life story and so are rich in emotional content.  Ethical Wills are intended to be shared with those very close in relationship to you, as they are filled with personal information and insight. Ethical Wills are NOT  legal documents, so you don’t need a lawyer to do one.

• History: They are an ancient tradition (found in many forms of scripture) with a modern twist.  Used anciently by patriarchs to pass down wisdom, modernly they are used by anyone to share life experiences and values.

Why should I write an Ethical Will?

• It is our duty to pass on wisdom & lessons to those that follow
• They help provide a vision, like a personal mission statement
• To  be remembered and to have the influence of your life continue on
• They are shorter and easier than a comprehensive life story
• If you want to influence those closest to you
• They provide an opportunity to explain life decisions

How can I get started?

• Self Starters- Complete the Ethical Will Organizer* and draft up your own.
• Need more help?- Schedule a group presentation where we can teach you in a more intimate setting. Be the contact person and receive a FREE organizer* for scheduling the presentation.

• Come to a community presentation. Look on “Workshops” page for information.

Publishing Options:

• A handwritten or typed Ethical Will presented on archival paper
• Your Ethical Will professionally published in a personalized hardback bound book which may include photos

Recommended Reading:

• “Letters From Dad” by Greg Vaughn
• “The Ultimate Gift” by Jim Stovall
• “The Last Lecture” by Randi Pausch
• “Ethical Wills: Putting Your Values on Paper” by Barry Baines M.D

Read samples of Ethical Wills (click here)

*Our Ethical Will Organizer will take you through the steps of writing and completing your ethical will using professional techniques.  Available for $10 plus shipping