Do you have a mission statement for your legacy?
Do you remember the book, The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, by Stephen Covey? There’s an exercise in the beginning of the book to help individuals define their personal mission statement. Covey asks the reader to imagine they’re at their own funeral, and think about what they hear people saying.
- What would you hear?
- How will your life be defined?
- What is your legacy?
Does your legacy affirm your beliefs?
Imagine the impact of your legacy. How will what you leave build a future for the next generation, charity, church – that person, place, or thing that matters most? A mission statement can help point in the direction of Covey’s next step, having a moral compass. Knowing what we care about, helps us make clear decisions and stay true to ourselves.
Do you have a vision for the future?
Building a legacy plan goes beyond investments, a will, or trust. It should leave you satisfied, hopeful, and engaged.
How to start building your legacy
- What values have guided you in life?
- What principles are behind your life choices?
- If you could give one piece of advice, what would it be?
- Who has influenced you most?
- What has brought value and meaning to your life?
These are some of the questions to ask as you begin looking inward to find your core beliefs.
Financial planning is more than just investments
Well designed portfolios, risk management, retirement income are all key parts of how investment advisors help clients, but often the most important questions we ask are about your goals. When you have a goal to leave a legacy the conversation moves beyond the ordinary. We want to help align your mission statement with your financial plan.
As your advisor I can help with this process. I would love to hear more about your thoughts on leaving a legacy.