“The things you do for yourself are gone when you are gone, but the things you do for others remain as your legacy.”
Much of who we are and what we do will pass away when we die, though there are some whose lives tend to live on beyond the transaction of their existence. Poets and novelists have books that may (or may not) transcend their passing, and truly great teachers leave an enormous legacy with the students who carry their influence into the world. Often, captains of industry will turn late in life to establish charitable trusts and foundations which ensure a kind of philanthropic legacy, too.
Done well, real estate can be a career with a legacy. Investing people in their neighborhoods and building community often springs from home ownership. Helping families in trouble navigate a short sale, or guiding a couple through the purchase of their first home can be a gift which people will remember you by. (Of course, real estate agents also champion many great causes, and offices all over the world typically pull together and engage in all manner of service-based activities to help others.)
I think holding the idea of “legacy” in mind can have a profound and positive impact on one’s day. A simple post-it note with the word “legacy” on it can remind us that chasing that second home in Aspen, or finally putting in a pool are secondary, material pursuits in our lives. The idea of our legacy can help us be more empathetic and more generous. It can also reduce our burdens. Our troubles, too, will come to an end when we do, so often the idea of our legacy and put conflict in perspective.
Ask yourself: “What’s my legacy?” today as you go about your usual business. See what impact it has, if it shapes your actions in a new way.
