LEAVING A LASTING LEGACY

How will you be remembered?

Maybe this question conjured up the thought of death, but quite the opposite is true. How you live your life in the 'here and now', the beliefs that you hold dear, and the way you treat your family and fellow man will determine your legacy.

You may think that what people say about you when you are gone, will not make any difference because you won't be around anyway. Think again! What you leave behind will have an impact on your children's lives and on society, as a whole. If you treat your children badly or even speak to them in a way that strips them of their self-belief, they will carry a negative connotation about 'Parenthood' with them for life, and either won't have children of their own or treat their children in the same fashion. In a society that is riddled with woman and child abuse, we must look at the fathers and ask: How do you want to be remembered?

As we celebrate Mandela Day this month, let us strive to leave a legacy of kindness, forgiveness, tolerance, perseverance, and faith in a better tomorrow. Nelson Mandela, the father of our nation, and world icon once said: "What counts in life is not the mere fact that we have lived; it is what difference we have made to the lives of others that will determine the significance of the life we lead."

You might not be a Mandela, a Mother Theresa, or an Alexander the Great, but you can focus on living a life of character, conviction and compassion and you, too, will be leaving a lasting legacy. It is about what you do, how you do it, and how it affects the people around you, that will determine how fondly memories of you will be treasured.

Living a life that lasts long after you are gone, could involve your personal and family life, your workplace and importantly, financially. Finances are the most tangible part of a legacy; it is important to ensure that your loved ones have 'a home' and financial security.

Here are six basic tips for building a lasting legacy:

1. Attitude and outlook on life. A positive attitude and a bit of humour can go a long way in improving happiness.
2. Commitment to doing good. Always remember that your actions influence the world around you.
3. Family heirlooms and history. Pass on your family's legacy by telling your children and grandchildren about your life and your beliefs.
4. Interpersonal relationships. Always take time to ask someone how they are doing and pass on all compliments.
5. Financial security of loved ones. Are your financial matters in order to ensure your loved ones will be taken care of when you're gone?
6. Inspiring others around you. Be an example of how to live a fulfilling life.

When you sit in front of your fireplace this winter, let your thoughts go as to what stamp you want to put on the future and the contribution you want to make for future generations. Then, start shaping your life to leave your unique mark on this world. We all want to know that 'our life mattered!'

How will YOU be remembered?

Inspired by Bestow & BJ Biehler