Not only is it important to know your net worth, but also you need to know the breakdown of those figures. How much is liquid, e.g. stocks, bonds, CDs, cash? How much is in tax-deferred investments, e.g. IRAs, 401K plans, etc.? How much is in real property, e.g. your home, vacation home, income property, etc.? There are many estate planning techniques to help you achieve your goals. Some work better than others with certain assets.