Each of us knows that our stay on this planet is temporary, but what we don't know is when and how we will transition to other states of consciousness. You might lapse into a coma after an accident tonight, or you may be playing tennis at 95. Learn five things you can do right now to help your loved ones take care of your body and your things no matter what your possible future evolves. If not now, when?

Emily Schwartz, JD is a licensed attorney in California and Arizona, teaches business law for the University of Phoenix, and is writing the first in a series of "how to" books on Holistic Estate and Life Planning. Preview a chapter at www.holisticestateplanning.com.