Legacy vs Fate: Write Your Story Before It Is Written For You

“Fate is a terrible writer.”

These words from Donald Miller can hit like a thunderbolt. How many of us are letting fate write our story instead of intentionally crafting the legacy we want to leave behind?

Planning your legacy isn't about death; It's about creating impact that outlasts you. Writing your obituary can be a part of step one in our 7-Step Succession planning process.

The Power of Writing Your Own Obituary

It sounds morbid, doesn’t it? Sitting down to write your own obituary. But here’s the truth: this exercise isn’t about death – it’s about life. It forces us to confront essential questions:

• How long do I want to live?

• Who do I want to show a lifetime of love and devotion to?

• What big vision do I want to accomplish?

• What do I want people to say about me when I’m gone?

Creating Your Life’s Story Summary

Every great story has three key elements:

1. A clear ambition

2. A challenge to overcome

3. A way to inspire or help others

Your life story should be no different. By defining these elements, you transform from a passive character to the hero of your own story.

The Power of Time Horizons

Vision without action is just daydreaming. That’s why creating 1-year, 5-year, and 10-year time horizons are crucial. For each time horizon, consider:

• Career goals

• Health objectives

• Family relationships

• Spiritual growth

• Friendships

The Right Questions Lead to the Right Actions

The quality of our lives often depends on the quality of questions we ask ourselves:

• What do I want most in life?

• Why should people care about what I’m doing?

Taking Control of Your Story

Remember: Every day you’re either writing your own story or letting fate write it for you. Creating a meaningful life isn’t about leaving things to chance – it’s about:

• Reflecting on your goals daily

• Understanding why each goal matters

• Setting clear deadlines

• Finding accountability partners

• Keeping score of your progress

Don’t let another day pass letting fate write your story. Take these steps:

1. Write your obituary (yes, really)

2. Create your story summary

3. Set your 1, 5, and 10-year goal horizons

4. Establish your daily rituals

5. Find accountability partners

Remember, you’re not just living a life – you’re writing a story. Make it one worth telling.

Ready to transform these principles into action? Our Succession Planning for Impact mastermind provides the perfect environment for this kind of accountability and growth.

In our monthly mastermind sessions, you’ll find a trusted circle of peers who understand your journey. Together, we’ll tackle the seven essential succession planning conversations, helping you move from surviving to thriving.

Harry T. Jones

P.S. Don’t let another month pass without the accountability you need to write your success story. Email me at Sunshine@cultivatingimpact.biz with “mastermind” in the subject line to learn how you can join our next cohort of intentional leaders who are writing their own stories of impact.