YOU
LEGACY BUILDING
Leaving behind a legacy means making an impact that will last long after you die. It could be financial, with something you create, or through the people you touch while you’re alive. The good news is, it’s never too late to start working on building a legacy that will outlive you. You may be think, “I don’t want to leave a legacy.” There’s nothing wrong with that. But before you dismiss it altogether, look at the various ways you can leave a legacy. You may find that your focus is limited to your own children and grandchildren, or you may prefer to have a touching funeral that gives everyone a chance to say goodbye. Here are some ways to leave a lasting legacy:
Evaluate your life
When it comes down to it, leaving a legacy meaning is simply knowing that you’ve left your mark on the world. The best thing to do is stop where you are now and evaluate. If you died today, what would people say about you? Are you happy with being known for that? If you don’t like what you find, you can start asking how to leave a legacy that would make you happy.
Pass along your values
For many, the leaving a legacy definition applies specifically to the next generation. If you have children and grandchildren, take a look at the example you’re setting for them. Have you imparted the values you hold dear to you, both through example and by teaching them?
Practice generosity
When you’re looking at legacy examples, you’ll probably see a common theme. Generous people tend to touch more lives and, as a result, leave a stronger legacy. Generosity is fairly simple. You put others first. You do things to help those in need. It can be as simple as helping out a friend who has fallen on hard times, or as large-scale as pitching in to help after a local disaster.
Create a plan to transition your wealth
There’s also the sensitive subject of your financial legacy. What assets will you leave behind for your survivors? If you aren’t swimming in money, that’s okay. But as you spend in retirement, think a little about how much money you want to leave when you die and who you want to be responsible for what you leave behind. You can never be too prepared.
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THE THE GRAND GRAND SEASON SEASON •• MAY MAY 2022 2022
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