Beyond Success: Crafting a Legacy of Impact
“Why do you want more money?” is a question I regularly ask my clients. While their answers vary, one common theme emerges: they all want their lives and careers to have meaning.
Success means different things to different people and can depend on their perspective. However, when I dig deeper into what success means long-term, having an impact on others’ lives is a common theme.
Many of my clients are organizational leaders who have achieved significant success in their careers but feel something is missing. They yearn for more than just professional accomplishments and material gains.
A friend who is a strategic advisor for non-profits sees this trend among people in the twilight of their careers. He calls it moving from “success to significance.” But you don’t need to wait until retirement to add more meaning to your career. It’s a lifelong journey that allows you to make a lasting impact and find deeper fulfillment.
Success vs. Significance
Success is often measured by achievements, wealth, and status. It's about reaching personal and professional milestones that bring recognition and rewards. While these accomplishments are valuable, they can sometimes leave us feeling unfulfilled.
Significance, on the other hand, goes beyond personal gain. It focuses on the impact we have on others and the legacy we leave behind. Significance is about making meaningful contributions that resonate beyond our careers and touch the lives of others.
Why Transition from Success to Significance?
Here are some benefits of making the shift:
· Greater Meaning & Purpose: Bring deeper meaning and purpose to your life.
· Global & Community Impact: Make a positive impact on your community and the world.
· Lifetime Growth: Encourage continuous personal and professional development.
· New Perspective: Gain a broader perspective on what truly matters.
· Inspire Others: Motivate others by leading with purpose.
· Create a Legacy: Leave a lasting legacy that benefits others.
Transitioning from Success to Significance
Many of the world’s best leaders have made this transition. Bill Gates, whose foundation focuses on global health and education, Richard Branson, who addresses social and environmental issues, and Ruth Bader Ginsburg, who advocated for gender equality and social justice, all leveraged their success to create legacies that benefit millions.
How can you shift your focus to become more impactful?
Self-Reflection - Assess your current achievements and their impact. Identify opportunities you aspire to make a difference.
Reevaluate Your Goals - Shift focus from personal gain to broader impact.
Leverage Your Success - Use your current position, resources, and influence to make a difference.
Give Back - Engage in philanthropy, volunteering, and community service. Support causes and initiatives that resonate with your values.
Build Meaningful Relationships - Foster connections that go beyond professional networks.
Embrace Lifelong Learning - Continuously seek knowledge and growth in areas that contribute to significance.
Evolving from success to significance is a continuous journey of self-awareness and growth. By shifting your focus from personal achievements to making a lasting impact, you can find deeper fulfillment and leave a meaningful legacy.
Reach out if you want personalized guidance and support to overcome self-doubt, build confidence, and create a more impactful life.
