Everyone wants to leave their mark on the world, and we can only hope it’ll be a good one.
You don’t need your name on a building or your face on a coin to leave a legacy, either. It’s really all about the impact you have on people’s lives, the ideas you bring to the table, and the change you set in motion. You don’t even have to wait until you’re older to start doing these things, either. The sooner you start, the better your legacy will be. Here are some things you can do to be remembered long after you’re gone.
1. Start writing your story, even if it’s just for yourself.
Source: Unsplash You might think your life isn’t worth writing about, but you’d be wrong. Your experiences, thoughts, and insights are unique to you. Start jotting them down, whether it’s in a journal, a blog, or even voice notes. It’s not about creating a bestseller (though who knows?), it’s about leaving a record of your journey. Your words might inspire someone in the future, or give your great-grandkids a glimpse into who you really were. Plus, the act of writing itself can help you gain clarity on your own life and values.
2. Plant trees you’ll never sit under.
No, this isn’t about actual gardening (unless that’s your thing). It’s about doing things that will benefit future generations, even if you won’t be around to see the results. This could be supporting a cause that fights climate change, volunteering at a youth centre, or backing innovative research. The key is to think long-term and act selflessly. It’s about creating a positive ripple effect that continues long after you’re gone.
3. Become a mentor, even if you think you’re not ready.
You might feel like you don’t have enough experience or wisdom to guide someone else. But the truth is, you know more than you think. Your struggles, successes, and lessons learned could be invaluable to someone just starting out. Mentoring isn’t about having all the answers; it’s about being willing to share your journey and support someone else on theirs. And here’s a secret: you’ll probably learn just as much from your mentee as they do from you.
4. Create something that solves a problem.
Source: Unsplash You don’t need to invent the next big tech gadget or cure cancer (though if you can, go for it!). Look around you and identify a problem, big or small, that bothers you or affects people you care about. Then, work on a solution. It could be a community initiative, a simple tool, or even a new process at your workplace. The size of the problem doesn’t matter; what matters is that you’re actively working to make things better for people.
5. Start that passion project you’ve been putting off.
We all have that one idea we’ve been mulling over for ages, but never quite got around to starting. Maybe it’s writing a book, starting a podcast, or creating a piece of art. Whatever it is, now’s the time to get cracking. Your passion project isn’t just about the end result; it’s about the journey, the skills you’ll learn, and the people you’ll inspire along the way. Who knows? This project might end up being the thing you’re remembered for.
6. Build genuine connections, not just a network.
In our LinkedIn-obsessed world, it’s easy to focus on building a vast network of shallow connections. But a lasting legacy is built on deep, meaningful relationships. Take the time to really get to know people. Listen to their stories, support their dreams, and be there during tough times. These genuine connections will enrich your life and create a web of positive influence that extends far beyond your immediate circle.
7. Share your knowledge freely.
In the age of paywalls and exclusive content, there’s something powerful about sharing what you know without expecting anything in return. Start a blog, give free workshops, or simply be open to answering questions from people who are interested in your field. By freely sharing your knowledge, you’re not just helping individuals; you’re contributing to a culture of openness and collaboration. Your insights could spark ideas or inspire actions that have far-reaching effects.
8. Challenge a societal norm that doesn’t make sense.
Every society has norms and traditions that persist simply because “that’s how it’s always been done”. Take a critical look at these norms. If you find one that seems outdated, unfair, or just plain silly, challenge it. This doesn’t mean you have to start a revolution; even small acts of questioning and pushing for change can have a big impact over time. Your willingness to speak up and push for progress could inspire other people to do the same, which could just create a ripple effect of positive change. Hey, you never know!
9. Teach a skill you’ve mastered, no matter how niche.
You might think that skill you’ve honed over the years is too obscure or unimportant to pass on. But you’d be surprised how valuable it could be to someone else. Whether it’s coding in an old programming language, repairing vintage watches, or making the perfect soufflé, your expertise is worth sharing. Set up a workshop, create online tutorials, or simply offer to teach interested friends. By passing on your knowledge, you’re not just preserving a skill; you’re potentially sparking a passion in someone else that could lead to innovations or preservations you never imagined.
10. Create a time capsule for future generations.
This isn’t just about burying a box in your garden. Think bigger and more impactful. Create a digital time capsule that captures the essence of your time, your thoughts, and your hopes for the future. Include photos, videos, news articles, and personal reflections. Don’t just focus on the big events; include the everyday stuff that future generations might find fascinating. Your insights on current technology, social norms, or even fashion could provide valuable context for historians or curious descendants decades from now.
11. Start a tradition that brings people together.
Traditions have a way of outliving their creators, becoming cherished practices that bind communities and families. Think about starting a tradition that promotes connection and positivity. It could be an annual neighbourhood clean-up day, a monthly skill-sharing meetup, or even a quirky holiday celebration. The key is to create something that people will want to continue even when you’re not there to organise it. A good tradition can foster community spirit, create lasting memories, and potentially impact lives for generations to come.
12. Invest in other people’s potential.
This isn’t about financial investment (though that can be part of it). It’s about believing in people’s potential and actively helping them achieve it. Keep an eye out for talent and passion in unexpected places. Maybe it’s the barista who dreams of opening their own café, or the kid in your neighbourhood who’s always tinkering with gadgets. Offer encouragement, share resources, make introductions, or even provide practical support if you can. By investing in other people’s dreams, you’re not just changing individual lives; you’re potentially setting in motion achievements and innovations that could benefit society as a whole.
13. Document the stories of your elders.
Every older person you know is a living library of experiences, wisdom, and historical context. Take the time to sit down with your grandparents, elderly neighbours, or older colleagues and record their stories. Ask about their childhood, their struggles, their triumphs, and the changes they’ve witnessed. Don’t just focus on the big historical events; capture the everyday details of life in their time. By preserving these stories, you’re not only creating a priceless family or community record, but you’re also ensuring that valuable perspectives and life lessons aren’t lost to time. This act of preservation is a legacy in itself, connecting past, present, and future generations.
