Uplifting Renewal

“Your legacy is every life you touched.” – Maya Angelou

You are a leader in your space, whether you realise it or not. By reflecting on questions like these, you can shape your impact into something truly meaningful:

• Am I a positive change agent in my space?
• Do my words and actions build others up or tear them down?
• Will my name evoke joy, sadness, resentment, or appreciation?
• Have I loved, supported, and mentored others meaningfully?
• Did I leave people better than I met them?

Your influence isn’t limited to a single role or title; it reaches into your home, workplace, community, friendships, family, even strangers. Every interaction has the power to shape someone’s experience.

Remember, you are an agent of change, an influencer wherever you are. Even the smallest gesture can carry significance beyond what you can see.

How legacy is created through influence

“Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.” – Matthew 5:16 (NKJV)

Legacy is about the imprint you leave on others’ lives. It’s in every life you uplift or bring down, every supportive or harmful word you share, and every action that fosters growth or regression.

Unlike monuments or accolades, legacy is the thread woven into others’ lives, the encouragement that keeps them going or the inspiration that sparks change. Your legacy is how you used your life to be a light and beacon of hope to someone.

Recognize that every position you hold is a privilege in someone else’s eyes. Use that influence to uplift others—be a force for positive change. Inspire people to see their potential, to think bigger, and believe in who they can become.

Your legacy is not about control; it’s about influence. It’s a responsibility to use your position to inspire hope, confidence, and progress in others. Influence others to believe in their potential, without seeking to control their journey. Think of yourself as a light, a guiding force, a catalyst for positive change.

Everyday influence: Small actions, lasting impact

Often, we don’t realize the depth of our influence. Even seemingly minor acts can leave a lasting impression. So, make a commitment today to be mindful of what you say and do.

In every small interaction, you are the salt that seasons, the yeast that rises, and the light that brightens. Leaving a legacy is about living a life that positively impacts others and resonates long after you’re gone. This is how you leave your legacy. An enduring impact that outlives you.

10 Practical ways to leave a meaningful legacy

1. Live by good values: Identify and consistently uphold the values that define you. Whether it’s kindness, integrity, or perseverance. Living by good principles makes a lasting impression.

2. Mentor and teach others: Share your knowledge, skills, and experiences with others. Mentorship is a powerful way to leave a part of yourself with those you guide.

3. Make a positive impact in small ways: Sometimes, the smallest acts of kindness make the biggest difference. From lending a listening ear to offering encouragement, small gestures can have lasting effects.

4. Build meaningful relationships: Invest in relationships with friends, family, and colleagues. A legacy is often carried on through the people who remember you, so create bonds that are built on respect, love, and mutual support.

5. Contribute to your community: Volunteer, advocate, or work for causes that matter to you. By making a difference locally, you create a ripple effect that impacts others.

6. Create or support something that lasts: Whether it’s a business, a creative work, a charity, or a tradition, creating something that lives on is a tangible legacy. You can also invest in causes or initiatives that align with your values.

7. Be consistent and intentional: Legacy is built over time. Make decisions that align with the impact you want to have on others. When your actions consistently reflect your goals and values, your legacy becomes intentional and authentic.

8. Embrace challenges and growth: Demonstrating resilience and self-improvement in the face of challenges shows others how to overcome adversity. Inspire others by leading through example, showing that growth is possible no matter the obstacles.

9. Write it down or share your story: Document your experiences, values, and lessons learned through writing, speaking, or creating a record. Sharing your journey provides a roadmap that can inspire others even when you’re not around.

10. Empower others to succeed: Leave a legacy not just by your own achievements, but by enabling others to reach theirs. When you empower others, you create a legacy of positivity and opportunity that spreads far beyond your individual efforts.

Leaving a legacy is about living in a way that uplifts and empowers others, creating a positive mark that others can remember and carry forward.

The legacy you leave: A lasting influence

“Brothers and sisters, don’t get discouraged in doing what is right.” – 2 Thessalonians 3:13 (CEB)

Legacy is more than a story; it’s your gift to the world. It’s the collection of values, actions, and accomplishments that resonate long after you’re gone.

People may forget the words you spoke or the specific things you did, but they will always remember how you made them feel.

No matter your level in life, you have an opportunity to be an influencer and leave a legacy. So be intentional about the legacy you leave. Create a positive impact, one that resonates through the lives of those around you. Your legacy is your greatest story, and it matters.