What does it mean to leave a legacy?

Monika had given serious thought to retiring. She had held those thoughts for more than two years! She was at the right age–actually a bit beyond her planned time of retirement–and she was ready to let go of the reins. There were so many things she wanted to do with her life. However, she clearly had no one to replace her. She had a good team, but no one would step up and take responsibility to lead the organization. No one showed her passion. When asked what she wanted to do after she retired, Monika talked about quite a lot of things, but no clear image emerged. She had no clear idea how she would live her passion after letting go of the reins. She was strongly thinking about staying on as a consultant if/when she retired. Over several months, Monika explored her passions and motivation, her interests and desires. She discovered where she wanted to direct her passion and how she would design a flexible, yet fulfilling life after leaving the company. It was a life that she would experiment with, modify and refine as she would any design as time and experience unfolded. Soon, she was so caught up in her evolving life and its new focus that her focus on the company began to wane.

What she found next was most amazing. Two of her direct reports began to emerge as leaders. They not only took on areas of responsibility that she was losing interest in, but together they were creating a new direction and vitality for the company. They were excited about the possibilities and wanted to take over. Either person could clearly take on her role, but when asked, they chose to work as a team. Monika felt confident to let go of her stewardship and continue her transition into her new life, leaving the company with passionate leaders while she moved on to her next set of challenges.

The term “legacy” comes from the 15th century and while it has its roots in the law and bequest of personal or real property it is always described as a “gift” from one person to another. What gift do you want to leave to others in your organization?

As we move into the next stage of our life, finding a deeper meaning often becomes important. The same things that used to challenge us or were the sparks behind our motivations changes. Has your focus changed? What holds your interest or desires beyond your current corporate / professional perspective? How do you want to be remembered? What changes can you start making in your life now to move in this new direction?