Building your legacy – what does that really mean?  For some, it might mean being a positive role model for their children.   For others, it might include being able to leave financial gifts of money or property to friends.  If you are a business owner, maybe it means leaving a thriving business for family to continue building through the generations.  Although it takes drive to work toward your vision of that legacy, you can do it if you consider these basic building blocks.

• Beliefs and values.The foundation to establishing a legacy begins with your beliefs and values.  Do you know your core beliefs and values?   Take time to reflect on what they are and write them down.  These become your lighthouse to guide you during difficult times.

•  Actions.  Each of us is responsible for what we do, and others are influenced or affected by our actions.  As noted by Plato, “Good actions give strength to ourselves and inspire good actions in others.”  Be a positive role model in what you do.  Think about your actions and the implications they will have not only on you, but on others.

• Words.  Spoken or written, words we utter impact our lives and the lives of others.  Use the power of your words to encourage and build people up rather than tearing them down.  Remind yourself that your word choices reflect your attitude toward people and the topic of discussion.   John C. Maxwell echoed this idea when he said, “People may hear your words, but they feel your attitude.” 

• Relationships.  In everything you do, developing positive relationships with others is most important.  Treat people with respect and learn from them.  Build lasting relationships both in your personal and professional life.  Find a mentor, and allow yourself to be a mentor.

• Work.   Work is not just about a job, but it is how we choose to spend our time and energy each day.  Look for balance in your life, not just between your career and your personal life, but with your time and talents you share with others.  Consider giving of yourself in service to others in your community as part of that balanced life.  “The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others,” Mahatma Gandhi wisely stated. 

• Focus.  “Lack of direction, not lack of time, is the problem. We all have 24-hour days.”  Zig Ziglar understood the importance of focus.  As you build your legacy, you must give concentrated attention on the things that matter to you.  Keep in charge of your agenda or someone else will take charge of it for you.

It takes a life time to build a legacy.  Throughout your life, make time to review and reflect on these basics.  In each area, you can apply the improvement cycle of Learn, Grow, Achieve, and Prosper to better develop your legacy.  Not sure of how these apply, especially in your business life?  Do you want to develop your current business into a legacy business?  Let’s join forces and allow me to be a partner with you as we develop your legacy!  To find out more, visit www.celestegiordano.com