It may seem as if the sun is setting on us, as boomers. But we still have many years to make our mark, to make a difference, to create a legacy we are proud of.
A generation is only as strong as the individual contributions each member makes.
While as a whole, the perception of the baby boomer’s contribution to society may have a bad rap, many of us know that we have made a positive impact with our lives.
As we approach this “3rd act in life”, now is a great time to review our legacy so far. (This is a common practice in the Thai culture – to re-assess life at age 60.)
Every step we take, adds to our legacy. This happens whether we realize it or not. Our daily choices create our life, our personality and our contribution to history.
Of course, in 100 years, our legacies may not stand out beyond our family history and the traditions we pass down through the generations. But we all make a mark and leave a footprint on the planet.
Today’s post includes an exercise to assess where we are. So try to complete it now.
Pull out a sheet of paper or your journal and begin. First, answer these questions:
What is my current legacy?
What words will be spoken at my memorial service?
How will my life be remembered?
What have I contributed, shared, taught to others?
How have I made a mark?
Finally, write down the three to five words or phrases which currently best describe your life.
(Mine are – I serve, I teach, I play.)
Regardless of your accomplishments so far, it is never too late to create a meaningful legacy. Revisit your answers in a week or so to see if they still hold true.
Over the next several months, I’ll be talking a lot about this topic. So stay tuned.
