What “legacy” means to me
Legacy isn’t just about what we leave behind when we’re gone – it’s how we show up along our journey with our interactions, our words, our relationships, and our presence. Our legacy leaves footprints!
I wanted to talk about “legacy” because it’s something I’ve deeply internalized throughout my personal journey. I honor the footprints of those who came before me, especially my mom, a first generation Mexicana, and how they sacrificed, believed, and powered through barriers so that I can do what I do.
I’m determined to continue that legacy.
I believe with all my heart that we live in a time where we can leverage our multicultural identities to create a legacy that’s powerful, beautiful, and causes us and the women around and coming up behind us to RISE.
Legacy takes many forms. Here are some I’ve been reflecting on recently…
Legacy is a lasting impression
Think about this: every conversation, every gesture, every action you take has the potential to leave a lasting impression on someone. Your words and actions can resonate, lift, and inspire someone long after the moment.
As a leader, this is your legacy in motion!
YOU – especially in your leadership role – have the ability to light up someone’s path, spark their confidence, and be the reminder that they, too, can step into their strength.
I want to challenge you this week to work toward being aware of this power your words and actions have to resonate, ripple, and spark. Be intentional with your presence!
Legacy is reciprocity
Legacy isn’t just about what you leave for others, it includes what you’re gaining for yourself while you’re here working, leading, and living. We are shaped by the people who support us!
Human relationships naturally give and take. As you leave your legacy with others, they leave yours with you. This connection can create deep bonds! What we receive from others can enable us to give more and leave a richer legacy.
Think about the mentors and role models who have impacted you. They’ve contributed to shaping your story, your path, and your leadership. As you lead, you do the same for others.
Legacy is contributing to a multi-generational cycle of giving and receiving, growing and sharing. How beautiful!
Legacy might feel invisible
We walk in this life not really knowing or fully understanding the footprints we leave behind. And yes… that can be hard for leaders! We’re pouring our hearts and energy into our roles and our people and sometimes we just don’t get to see how much of a difference it made.
Your path to leaving a legacy might be carefully planned out, or it might happen spontaneously, but it’s mostly about walking with intention, love, and gratitude. When we take time to reflect on our journey, we can appreciate the footprints we’ve left in the hearts and minds of others.
If you were to pause now and look back at the trail you’ve left – how would it look? Are you proud of the path you’ve walked? Do you feel gratitude for the lessons learned, the people you’ve connected with, and the connection you’ve shared?
Take a moment to celebrate your journey!
Incremental growth can be just as meaningful and rewarding as landing a new role (and let’s be real: often less stressful!).
Legacy is ultimately about LOVE.
If we LOVE people enough to show up with empathy and care, we establish a legacy that has infinite ripples.
It’s also about loving ourselves.
The way you love yourself, the way you lead with love, and the way you offer love to others is the true heart of legacy. When you embrace LOVE as the core of your leadership, you create a space for others to do the same. And that’s how we change the world.
At Rising Legacy, we’re helping multicultural women rise as leaders who leave a legacy of love, gratitude, excellence, and connection. Your legacy is unfolding right now! What will you leave behind, not just for others – but for yourself, too?
Let’s start today.
Lead the way,
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