We all have a time stamp, and expiration date, a dash between dates that will be under our name. Do you ever think about the legacy that you are living and the one you will leave behind?
As a coach, I meet many people who intuitively know that they are here for a specific purpose. They may not know what it is yet, but they know that it exists at their core. I help them discover what’s inside so that they can start living their legacy.
You don’t have to be famous or rich to leave a legacy. You don’t have to be a scientist or a politician to create an impact in the world. We all make an impression on our circle of influence. The question becomes, is it the impression that you want to be known for? Being intentional about the way you live and the ripple effect you create is the key to leaving a meaningful legacy.
Here are some questions to help you start to define your personal legacy:
- What do you want to be remembered for? Think of the different people in your circle of influence; your spouse, your kids, your colleagues, your friends, the organizations that you are a part of. What would each of these groups say about you if you passed? Is what you think they would say, the thing that you want them to recall in the future when you come up but are no longer wearing your earth suit? If not, what actions do you need to take in your life to change the messaging?
- What are you core values? These touchstones are the guiding principles in your life. Are the things that are governing your life in alignment with your values or, are they a habit that you have adopted to survive? Think of these values are road signs directing you on where to go and follow them.
- What will you leave behind that will keep going and growing? Maybe it’s an idea or an ideal. It could be a business or investments that will keep growing and benefit others. It could be something that you are doing today that will affect future generations (think about the population as a whole, your kids, your grandkids, your community), like a seedling being planted that turns into a tree. What give do you have in your heart that you want to leave behind? If you don’t know, find out. It’s important.
After you have taken stock of what is and what isn’t, I encourage you to spend some time being honest about the life you are living and the ripple you are leaving in your wake.
We will all leave something behind. The question is, how long will it last and is it the thing that you want to be remembered for?
If you are interested in building your personal legacy, contact me for a complimentary 30-minute session. I also invite you to join my Shine on Purpose Facebook group to get more tips on how to live life to the fullest.
