Every leader will eventually ask themself “What will by my legacy?”
Far too often, we ponder this near the end of a career or a life and I would suggest that when we do that, we are pondering legacy not because we care about others but because we care about ourself.
Legacy has two roads…It can be a self-absorbed “look at what I did” approach or it can be an intentional action performed each and every day that can impact the culture and future of an organization for generations to come.
Legacy Changes Lives.
Legacy is not just about achievements or accolades. It’s about impact. It’s about the way you made people feel, the values you stood for, and the culture you created. It’s about who you empowered, what you stood up for, and how you responded when it mattered most. Legacy lives on in the teams you built, the lives you touched, and the vision you cast that outlived your time in the role.
Do you want to start leading with legacy in mind? Consider the following actions:
Lead with Purpose
Get clear on your “why.” Let your values guide your decisions and actions so others see what truly matters to you.Invest in People
Mentor, coach, and elevate others. Legacy lives on in the people you grow and empower.Share Your Knowledge
Pass on what you’ve learned. Document your experiences, speak openly, and leave a trail others can follow.Make Bold, Values-Driven Decisions
Be willing to take courageous stands for what’s right, even when it’s unpopular. Legacies are remembered for moments of conviction.Celebrate Others Often
Give credit freely. Highlight the wins of those around you. People remember how you made them feel.Think Generationally
Build systems, strategies, and teams that can outlast you. Don't just think about your time—think about the future.Stay Humble and Curious
Admit mistakes, keep learning, and stay grounded. Humility adds humanity to your leadership story.Be Present and Intentional
Every day counts. Show up fully, lead intentionally, and remember: legacy is not in the someday—it’s in the now.Want to know more about Leadership Legacy?
Plug in to our Podcast wherever you listen to them at “Courageous Leadership with Travis Yates”
If you haven’t read the book that started this movement, you can get it here. If you can’t afford it, I’ll send it to you.
Encourage your agency or conference to host our training. It will throw gasoline on the match you have already lit.
Always remember, Lead On & Stay Courageous!
Dr. Travis Yates retired as a commander with a large municipal police department after 30 years of service. He is the author of “The Courageous Police Leader: A Survival Guide for Combating Cowards, Chaos & Lies.” His risk management and leadership seminars have been taught to thousands of professionals across the world. He is a graduate of the FBI National Academy with a Doctorate Degree in Strategic Leadership and the CEO of the Courageous Police Leadership Alliance.
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