Every day we are shaping the legacy that we’ll leave behind. Even if you’re not conscious of it, every action you take adds up to how you’ll be remembered in life and how you can impact the world around you.
Peter Strople once said, “Legacy is not leaving something for people. It’s leaving something in people.”
What do you want people to say about you when you aren’t in the room? Do you want them to praise how hard you work and how kind and loving you are to your family? The answer is most likely “yes.” However, the way to ensure this type of legacy is simple: be someone who is kind, loving, and hard-working every day.
From how you interact with family and friends to how you conduct business, invest your money, and give to charitable organizations, it’s the small things that all come together to shape your legacy. So, how exactly do you leave an impact on the people around you?
Leave an Impact on Someone
Below are just a few ways to leave a lasting legacy in people that goes far beyond material possessions.
Practice Gratitude Daily
If you want to shape the world, the best way to start is by practicing daily gratitude. That makes it easier to start taking small steps each day to reflect the kind of person you want to be remembered as when you’re gone.
Become a Confidant
The people we emotionally connect with are often the people we trust. Becoming someone that people feel comfortable around is one of the best ways to impact their lives. Maya Angelou summed this up perfectly:
“At the end of the day people won’t remember what you said or did, they will remember how you made them feel.”
Become a Role Model
Think about the role models in your life. Who are they? Are they the people with the least responsibility or have made few sacrifices to succeed? Often, role models are those who chose to walk down difficult paths and overcame many obstacles to get where they are. The Lord tells us:
“Enter by the narrow gate; for wide is the gate and broad is the way that leads to destruction, and there are many who go in by it. Because narrow is the gate and difficult is the way which leads to life, and there are few who find it.” – Matthew 7:13-14
When you make a choice every day to lead a meaningful life and do your best to honor God with your choices, you will become a role model to many people.
Legacy Coaching with OneAscent
OneAscent believes that the most important legacies we leave are instilled in those around us rather than the financial assets or charitable contributions we leave behind. We help you create this legacy through daily action, as well as through financial plans that enable giving and providing for those around you.
To learn more about our Legacy Coaching program, contact your OneAscent advisor today.