The Paradox of WILL Writing: Why We Avoid It Despite Its Simplicity

Writing out your WILL (My Directive) may seem simple. After all, it involves just putting your thoughts on paper or typing them out. Still, many of us find ourselves putting this task off or avoiding it altogether. Why does something so straightforward feel so intimidating? In this post, we will explore the reasons behind this paradox and offer practical advice to overcome the inertia that stops us from writing out our WII.

Understanding the WILL Concept

The WILL concept is a valuable tool for creating a personal directive. It enables individuals to clearly state what they want to happen to their body and their assets, in the event they transition out of this life . When we articulate our WILL in writing, we essentially create a roadmap that guides others toward finalizing our wishes.

For instance, studies show that people who write down their directives are 92% more likely to having them achieved. Yet, many individuals still struggle to take the time to record their WILL. This reluctance often arises from various factors, including fear of deciding who will be the person to carry out our directives and what will be the assets in your Estate to be distributed. The ambiguity around this, or the sheer scale of the task at hand can lead to procrastination.

The Fear of Commitment

One major reason people shy away from writing their WILL is fear of commitment. When we commit our intentions to paper, we make a promise to ourselves (and our loved ones). This can be daunting, especially if we feel uncertain about whether the end result will get accomplished, since we won't be alive to see it fulfilled.

Writing can solidify these intentions, making them feel more real and binding. According to a survey by the American Psychological Association, 61% of individuals report feelings of anxiety when faced with the prospect of commitment. This anxiety can cause many to avoid writing out their "WILL" altogether.

Lack of Clarity

Another barrier to writing our WILL is a lack of clarity regarding our goals. Many struggle to express what they truly want to happen, leading to confusion and frustration.

When faced with a blank page, the expectation to define the intentions can seem overwhelming. According to a report from the International Coaching Federation, 70% of people express feeling unclear or indecisive about their goals at some point. This uncertainty often leads to procrastination. We may think we need more time to process our thoughts before we can write anything down.

The Overwhelm of Possibilities

In today’s fast-paced world, we encounter a constant stream of choices. This flood of options can lead to "analysis paralysis," where the abundance of possibilities makes decision-making difficult.

Specifically, when attempting to write our WILL, the multitude of decisions can feel paralyzing. A study by Psychology Today found that people can struggle to make decisions when faced with more than six options. This indecision can trap us in a cycle of inaction, which further delays the writing process.

The Illusion of Time

Many often think they lack the time to write their WILL. In reality, the writing process can take only a few minutes. However, our busy lifestyles can skew our perception of time.

We frequently prioritize tasks that seem more urgent, relegating WILL writing to the background. A survey conducted by the National Sleep Foundation found that 74% of people feel guilty about not finding time for self-improvement activities. This guilt can further discourage us from dedicating time to documenting our WILL Directive.

The Power of Accountability

One useful way to overcome reluctance around documenting our WILL, is to add an element of accountability. Sharing our intentions with a trusted friend, mentor, or coach can create a sense of responsibility that motivates us to act.

When someone else is aware of our goals, we may feel more driven to follow through. Research from the Dominican University shows that people who share their goals with others are 33% more likely to achieve them. This external pressure can help us push through our fears and make writing feel more approachable.

Creating a Supportive Environment

Another effective strategy is to create a supportive environment for WILL writing. This involves setting aside dedicated time and space for reflection and writing.

Minimizing distractions and establishing a comfortable atmosphere can enhance our focus on intentions. For example, designating a quiet corner in your home or visiting a favorite café helps create a conducive atmosphere. Research by the University of California indicates that reduced distractions can improve productivity by up to 65%.

Wrapping It Up

The paradox of documenting your WILL stems from its simplicity and the barriers we construct that stop us from engaging in the process. By recognizing the fears, lack of clarity, and overwhelming choices we face, we can take proactive steps to dismantle these challenges.

Introducing accountability, creating a supportive environment, and embracing imperfections can transform WILL writing from a daunting chore into an empowering exercise.

Ultimately, investing the time to get it done, can cultivate greater clarity, focus, and success in our lives. So, let’s overcome the paradox and make time to do it today!

A notebook and pen ready for writing intentions