How and when to make a Will.

When I was 27, the universe entrusted me with something that I wasn't completely certain I was ready for. A baby.

I spent every spare minute of life up until that point either working out, going out, or feeling strung out. I wasn't a mess, but I certainly wasn't completely together either.

Then I became pregnant. My mindset, habits, and purpose shifted, with every ultrasound, flutter, burp and heartburn reminding me that I was growing a human being. That I was now responsible for the life and livelihood of another.

I'd sing to her in the hopes that she would like the same music, read to her hoping she would inherit my love of books, and every night, I'd promise to keep her safe, even when the world may tell her that it has other ideas.

That little bump is now almost 15 years old with a little sister in tow. I often find myself watching them, completely in awe of who they are and what they may become, not quite believing that a day even existed when they weren't around.

What I have also found myself thinking at times however, is that one day, I won't be around. This realisation not only makes my heart literally hurt, but it has also forced me to take a good look at my responsibilities as a parent and how I could not only try and be around for as long as possible, but also be prepared if the unthinkable ever happened.

If we're being honest, we back up our phone data, we have contracts in place for our jobs; we even ensure our hairdresser keeps our exact colour profile on file. We have contingency plans for so much of our lives, but when it comes to planning for a really big life disrupter like leaving our kids behind, it's something we either don't think to do, or push to the side.

But creating a Will can actually be a really grounding process, and I promise that with a few tips to get the conversations rolling, it isn't as complicated or dramatic as you might think.

Make the call.

You can discuss making a Will through your family solicitor or an option like NSW Trustee and Guardian. As a trusted government agency, they can help make or update your Will, guiding you through it step-by-step to make it one less thing you need to worry about.

This is a useful option for creating a Will in NSW, especially if you want a government-backed, reasonably-priced, and straightforward service. And they don't just write Wills — they also administer estates and are known for their practical experience, which can help ensure your Will is structured clearly and is legally valid.

This first step is as easy as making an appointment. You can make the booking online, and your initial appointment can either be via video call or in person at any of their NSW locations.

Create a list.

Think about all of the things you deem valuable, your assets. Real estate, vehicles, jewellery, businesses, money in the bank, super, those fancy china teacups that your grandmother gave you after they were passed down to her.

Whatever it is, pop them down on a list along with any liabilities like loan debt, mortgages and credit cards. This will give you a nice clear view of everything you own that will be passed on to others if you weren't here.

Decide who benefits.

Our partner and/or kids typically sit at the top of the list when we think about who we would like to inherit our possessions and memories, but if you want to extend this to other family and friends, you absolutely can. There may even be some charities close to your heart that you would like to leave a gift to, leaving behind more of your goodness that will benefit others long after you're gone.

Consider guardianship of your children.

Breathe mama. This might make you feel uneasy, but it's actually a really important step in ensuring your kids have loving arms around them in times of need.

Anyone can be listed as a guardian in your Will. Your best friend, sibling, parents, anyone who you look at and believe would keep your children safe and supported. For my family, those two people are my girls' godparents: my best friend and my husband's best friend.

Choose an executor.

An executor handles your estate — they sort out your debts, deal with the legal paperwork, and make sure your money and belongings go to the right people according to your Will. They also generally manage any trusts under your Will, including for your children or other beneficiaries until they reach adulthood.

Make no mistake, this can be quite a bit of an undertaking for an individual so have a think about who you feel would endeavour to make the process smooth and do things according to your wishes. If you are worried about tasking a loved one with this title, there are professional executors who can do this for you, including NSW Trustee and Guardian. They can help keep things efficient, reduce miscommunication, take the pressure off your loved ones, and handle the legal and financial processes professionally and with care.

Review and update regularly.

Just like the seasons, our circumstances change. My husband and I make a date of reviewing our Will once every year or so. The kids have a sleepover, we order some delicious takeaway that they don't like to eat, and we lovingly pour over planning the perfect transition if it's ever needed.

"What ifs" aren't just reserved for older people, and it shouldn't feel dramatic or morbid to think about putting things in place. Instead, look at creating a Will as a practical step in giving yourself peace of mind, knowing the people you love most won't be left guessing what's next without us.

Book an appointment to make your Will with NSW Trustee and Guardian, either online or call 1300 10 20 30.

Featured image: Supplied.

'I didn't think I needed a Will. Having a child completely changed my mind.'