LEGACY. Typically
when we think of the meaning, we often think of something old or left
behind. Maybe something of monetary value. An inheritance
perhaps.
When I
pulled out my trusty Merriam Webster dictionary, it provided
the usual information that LEGACY is a noun and means "money
or property left to someone in a will." Another source, the
online Bing dictionary referenced something similar. 1. Bequest
made in a will; 2. Something from the past; 3. Outdated or discontinued.
Hmmm, I
was still looking for a different description that provided a newer
concept. Let me explain. When I think about leaving a
LEGACY, it takes on a whole new meaning. It pertains to now and how
it can be used for development. LEGACY is a
word I hold close to my heart. It is part of my being and pertains
to leadership and developmental growth.
Simply
said, "LEADERS today
will leave a LEGACY tomorrow."
I
believe LEGACY is an important partner with Leadership. To cultivate the
spirit of leadership and develop that which inspires others to act with passion
and lead with integrity as it means to transform life's results in leaving a
LEGACY. A legacy is the impact and impression an individual makes and leaves
behind in the lives of others. It no longer represents the individual. It
represents the people who carry on his or her name with passion and integrity.
Leaders
are defined by the following characteristics found in L.E.G.A.C.Y.
- Leadership
- Enthusiasm
- Generosity
- Authenticity
- Compassion
- Youthfulness
- "Leadership"
- "Leaders lead while inspiring
with incorporating and building upon people's confidence."
Often
the perception is that to be a leader, you're older and
experienced. Something that occurs towards the end of your
life. Not true. LEGACY plays an important role in defining a
good leader at any age. Leadership is not about producing results or
measuring success with statistics. Leadership is doing something with
significance that makes families, organizations, societies, nations and the
world a better place before you die.
- "Enthusiasm"
- "People who intensely
believe in their purpose to leave a legacy behind."
They
have the ability to spread their positive outlook and a readiness to take
action, involving all who come in contact with them. It's the
difference of being laser focused on what can be done instead of allowing
inertia to set in. Enthusiastic people take action rather than
setting up roadblocks or distractions. What helps grow enthusiasm
and build on the momentum is to have a clear vision of what motivates you to
remain focused.
- "Generosity"-
"Generosity is a strength,
not a weakness."
Generous
leaders are confident and giving of themselves and their
knowledge. The gain is not financial, it's in growth and
sharing. Generosity, when freely given, empowers people to receive
what they truly want, knowledge, credit for their actions, praise for their
efforts, responsibility because they're capable and the authority because
they've earned your trust. Generous leaders have faith in others to
succeed. In turn, they receive ten-fold, loyalty, commitment, and a
positive outcome.
- "Authenticity"
- "It's not what you
tell people but how you make them feel."
I
believe Leadership is a verb, not a noun when you factor in
authenticity. An authentic leader's role encompasses active
participation with their team. Expressing strength and confidence to
lead with their hearts, not only with their minds. Authentic Leaders
are not afraid to show emotion and vulnerability as they share in the
challenges with the team. Also critical to authentic leadership is
to develop a solid foundation of trust with open and honest
communication. It's surprising to me when leaders lacking
authenticity are surprised to find team members unhappy and leave.
"Outstanding leaders go out of the way to boost the
self-esteem of their personnel. If people believe in themselves, it's amazing
what they can accomplish." - Sam Walton
- "Compassion"-
"The secret to long-term relationships is providing kindness, caring
and love."
As a
leader our purpose is to provide knowledge and generate trust through
kindness. This will provide a foundation that allows others to make
choices, right or wrong, and grow in a positive manner from the
experience. Taking the time to go the extra mile when needed is the
best way to develop solid leadership. Compassion is that special
element that is often missed and makes the difference in building a positive
environment.
As you
can see, it's very important to leave a legacy.
- "Youthfulness"- We often
think that leadership is something that only occurs when you're
older."
Successful
leaders leave a legacy behind at any age. The "Y" in
legacy is to remind us that our future leaders are young and energetic, full of
new ideas and eager to embrace the vision and principles of
Leadership. Leaving a legacy is for all ages, developing everyone, our
future leaders in society, our country and the world.
"Legacy is more than leaving possessions behind. It's about
investing in people with passion and integrity through leadership and
love."
Here is
my final thoughts for you...
Transformational
Process of Living and Leaving a Legacy
Transformation
takes place within us when we learn to be intentional and go from focusing
on... to...
* Me ... to...
others
* Success ... to ... significance
* Limited ... to ... limitless
* Scarcity ... to ... abundance
Then
you will develop a "No Excuses" mindset and will go from making a
living to making a difference and from leadership to legacy.
No Excuses LEGACY = LEADERSHIP +
LOVING TO SERVE OTHERS
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