The Creation of a Legacy

“A legacy is not some big, grand thing. It’s what you do everyday that you are going to be accountable for when you take your last breath.” – Maya Angelou

A legacy. We’ve all heard the term, but what exactly is it?

Something transmitted by or received from an ancestor or predecessor or from the past. – Merriam Webster

But what specifically goes into the creation of a legacy? Unfortunately, the creation of a legacy is not some quick fix, it takes time, patience and effort.

Here are some ways to stay on task with your legacy goals:

Get clear on specifics – IDENTIFY WHAT MATTERS: What do you want to be remembered for most? What do you want your loved ones to remember you for? What qualities do you respect and admire of those that have come before you?
Start today!: Tomorrow is not promised, so seize the day. Check out some success stories of people who inspire you and model their behaviors, vision board, network, keep your goals visible – out of sight, of mind.
Simplify your life – focus on the essentials only: Streamline or ‘budget’ your time wisely. Discipline will pay off here; cut the riff-raff, hours of mindless scrolling are just that and leave you little to nothing to show for it.
Treat everyone with kindness: You never know the path life will take, treat everyone with the same level of respect and decency you expect.
Step outside your comfort zone: Greatness takes courage, what is something you’ve been putting off? Return to your ‘bucket list’, these are the things you will be remembered for.
Be of service! And always the student: Never stop learning, especially in your quest for greatness, which will inevitably inspire those around you as well.
Seek out a mentor/coach or trusted friend to help keep you accountable and give you the extra push required to lean fully and completely into your goals: Often others see a vision that you cannot; let them encourage you and share in the joy of your accomplishments. Remember, others enjoy helping, so let them!
Greatness has no expiration: Devote a small fraction of time each day toward your legacy, even if it is only by way of a journal entry or email to a like minded friend or associate.
“Don’t be afraid of death; be afraid of an unlived life. You don’t have to live forever; you just have to live.” – Natalie Babbitt

While it is kind of impossible to put a time frame on your success, it is possible to measure your progress. Keep a time table or reward system so that when you accomplish something you celebrate it! Invest in yourself – the rewards are immeasurable.

You ARE worth it!