Monday, April 7, 2025
Saturday, April 5, 2025
How everyone can leave a legacy at work
1. Reflect on impact
The first step towards establishing a workplace legacy requires people to reflect on the impact they want to have.
“Ask yourself, ’What will people say about my contribution when I’m gone?’” advises Shah.
One way to articulate this is by undertaking a "tombstone coaching" exercise, which Fenwick uses with clients, where they imagine they are in the last days of their life.
“On that last day, are you going to look back on your life and feel a level of fulfillment?” he asks. “Were you true to your word? Did you live by your values and achieve what you said you would? Was that the thing you really wanted to do?”
Similarly, being a trusted sounding board can leave a powerful legacy. “Make yourself available as a reliable confidant for others,” suggests Shah. “Provide honest and constructive feedback.”
In addition, he encourages people to reflect on their chosen legacy and why it is important. “There will always be times when it feels too hard or you don’t have the time,” he says. “But if you’re connected to your ’why’ that’s your internal motivator and the fuel that’s going to push you forward.”
She recommends starting with small, consistent actions: aligning behaviour with values, prioritising relationships, celebrating wins and failures, and challenging the status quo.
“Remember, your legacy isn’t built in a single action or initiative,” says Shah.
“It’s the sum of consistent, intentional behaviours over time. Every decision, conversation and interaction contribute to what you’ll ultimately leave behind.”
Vocabs
confidant
noun [ C ]
uk /ˈkɒn.fɪ.dænt/ us /ˈkɑːn.fə.dænt/
(female also confidante)
Add to word list
a person you trust and share your feelings and secrets with:
a close confidant
Ref: CPA
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