Why I Wrote an Estate Planning Book That Doesn’t Overwhelm You (2 min read)

Estate planning gets a bad rap.

Most people assume it’s a stressful, expensive, and overly technical process reserved for the ultra-wealthy. Legal documents. Complicated tax rules. Attorneys using phrases like “inter vivos trust” and “per stirpes.”

It’s no wonder so many people avoid it.

But here’s the truth: estate planning isn’t about money or paperwork. It’s about peace of mind. It’s about protecting your loved ones. And it doesn’t have to be overwhelming.

The Real Reason People Avoid Estate Planning

In my experience, most people don’t avoid estate planning because they don’t care. They avoid it because no one has ever explained it in a way that feels doable.

If you’ve ever said something like:

  • “I know I should get a will but I don’t know where to start.”

  • “I’m not rich enough for estate planning.”

  • “It’s all so confusing - maybe I’ll deal with it later.”

You’re not alone. You’re actually exactly who I wrote my book for.

Simple Over Scary

When I sat down to write my estate planning book, I made one big decision:

I wasn’t going to write another legal guide. There are plenty of those - and they’re great if you’re a law student or a tax professional.

But I wanted to write something simple, clear, and relatable - something that someone could read in an afternoon and say, “Okay, I finally understand what I need to do.”

That’s why each chapter in the book is short and focused on just one topic at a time. I didn’t load it up with legalese. I didn’t try to explain every possible scenario. I focused on the big picture, the core principles, and what matters most to real people like you.

What I’ve Seen - and What I Want to Help You Avoid

I’ve seen families fall into confusion and conflict after a loved one passes - not because anyone did anything wrong, but simply because there was no plan.

I’ve seen assets tied up for years in probate because the right documents weren’t in place.

I’ve seen adult children left guessing what their parents “would have wanted.”

And I’ve seen how much easier, kinder, and more peaceful it can be when there’s a simple, clear plan in place ahead of time.

That’s why I wrote this book - not to impress anyone, but to empower people who’ve been putting this off to finally take action.

If You’ve Been Waiting for a Starting Point, This Is It

If you’ve ever thought:

  • “I’ll get to it someday.”

  • “I just need to understand it better first.”

  • “I’m not sure what I even need.”

Then I invite you to start here.

My book is written for people just like you. People who want to do the right thing. People who don’t want to get overwhelmed. People who are ready to take that first step.

A Very Simple Estate Planning Guide: That Goes Beyond Creating a Will is designed to make estate planning less intimidating, more empowering, and 100% doable.

Final Thought

Estate planning doesn’t have to be cold, complicated, or scary. It can be clear. It can be comforting. It can even be an act of love.

That’s the message I share in my book - and I hope it’s one that gives you the clarity and confidence to begin.

Cheryl Gill

Cheryl Gill is the author of A Very Simple Estate Planning Guide, and also motivates and helps others to understand the basics of estate planning through speaking engagements at various venues. She believes that planning ahead not only provides peace of mind but also makes life easier for everyone impacted during life’s toughest moments.

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Amending vs. Restating a Revocable Living Trust: What’s the Difference and When To Do It (4 min read)