Like It or Not, You’re Leaving a Legacy

Legacy. It’s a word that often gets reserved for the extraordinary—the icons, the innovators, the people who build empires or achieve historic feats. But here’s the truth: every single one of us is leaving a legacy, whether we’re conscious of it or not.

Yes, the impact of ultra-high achievers is incredibly important, but the reality is that the small, meaningful ways we influence the people and communities around us are just as valuable—and sometimes, even more lasting. It’s something every one of us creates through our everyday actions, our relationships, and the way we choose to show up in the world.

Think about it: Maybe your aspiration isn’t to change the world, but to raise children who grow into kind, compassionate adults. Maybe it’s to lead a team where every employee has a sense of belonging, feeling supported and empowered to achieve their career goals. Or perhaps it’s as simple as being the person who makes others feel seen and valued. These are legacies that cascade out, often in ways we can’t fully see. They matter deeply.

Legacy Isn’t Accidental—It’s Intentional

Here’s the catch: because legacy is created in the ways we interact with others and live our lives, it’s not something you can ignore. You’re already building it, whether you’re aware of it or not. That’s why it’s so important to pause and think: What kind of legacy do I want to leave behind?

For some, the answer might be rooted in family or community. For others, it could be a broader vision of shaping industries, challenging injustices, or building something tangible that outlasts them. Whatever it is, the key is to get clear about your intention. Because when you define your legacy, you’re more likely to live it out in alignment with your values and goals.

Are You Living Your Legacy or Someone Else’s?

But what if we find ourselves pursuing a legacy that others have envisioned for us rather than following our own true calling? The expectations of our parents, mentors, or even societal norms can shape our beliefs about what we "should" do with our lives, sometimes overshadowing what we truly want to do.

It takes courage to step back and ask yourself: Am I living a legacy that reflects my values and passions—or one that was handed to me by someone else? This isn’t about rejecting the guidance or influence of those who’ve shaped us. In fact, many of us give credit to family members, mentors, or teachers for helping us achieve success—and that acknowledgment is important. But there’s a difference between honoring those influences and hiding behind them.

This was true in my own life. I downplayed my own role in my accomplishments and the success of my company because I feared that owning my impact might seem arrogant. I was challenged by a professional coach to stand confidently in the legacy I am creating, instead of deflecting attention and attributing my success to my father and others.

Owning Your Legacy with Grace, Humility—And Power

The truth is, you can—and should—own your impact with grace, humility, and empowerment. Recognizing your role in the impact you have on others and the world around you isn’t about ego; it’s about authenticity. It’s about acknowledging the unique ways you’ve touched lives, created opportunities, or made a difference. When you do that, you’re not just owning your story—you’re giving others permission to do the same.

The Perfect Time to Reflect

We’re still early in the new year, and there’s no better time to reflect on the legacy you’re leaving. It doesn’t have to be a dramatic, sweeping exercise. Start small. Ask yourself:

• What kind of impact am I having on those closest to me—my family, friends, colleagues, or community?
• What do I want the people around me to remember about me?
• Am I living in alignment with the values I hope to be remembered for?
• Am I doing the things that give me joy and fulfillment?

Taking a moment to answer these questions can give you clarity and help you begin to be more intentional about the ways you’re shaping your legacy.

Your Legacy Matters—Big or Small

Whether your legacy is raising a family, mentoring a colleague, building a thriving company, or simply spreading kindness in the spaces you occupy, it’s important to remember that all legacies matter. What may seem small to you could mean the world to someone else.

So as we fully engage in 2025, here is an important reminder: Like it or not, you’re leaving a legacy. Make it one that reflects who you are, what you value, and how you hope to be remembered.

Because when we’re intentional about the impact we leave behind, we don’t just shape our own legacy—we impact the lives of others for the better.

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