The death of your spouse is an immense challenge, bringing with it not only emotional grief but also significant financial adjustments. As a financial advisor who has worked with many widows, through my own experiences and research about widows and money, I developed the "3 Stages of Widowhood®" framework to help you navigate this complex time, empowering you both financially and personally.

This framework breaks down your journey into manageable phases:

• 1. GRIEF/Numb: Financial Triage This is a highly vulnerable time. My focus in this initial stage is for you to feel heard and understood while emphasizing that you should make no big, irrevocable decisions. We'll focus on immediate needs, such as settling the estate, reviewing your cash flow and assets, and filing for benefits. This stage is all about helping you "Breathe" through the initial shock.

  
  

• 2. GROWTH/Journey: General Planning As your cognitive functions begin to normalize, we move into general planning. This stage involves taking the necessary "Financial Steps" to address basic estate planning, investments, taxes, and decisions related to pre- or post-retirement, as well as housing. The aim here is to help you find "Balance" and begin to feel financially secure.

  
  

• 3. GRACE/Transformation: Advanced Planning This final stage is about evolving into your new life. It includes advanced estate and charitable planning, addressing special family issues, and repurposing your life for independence. This stage encourages you to consider the new design of your life and focuses on building your legacy—sharing your stories, values, and aspirations for future generations, leading to fulfillment.

  
  

My "3 Stages of Widowhood®" framework provides a roadmap to help you move from a place of vulnerability to financial security and a sense of making progress. I invite you to download this PDF and gain a deeper understanding of each stage, helping to navigate your financial journey with confidence.