People will always remember how they were treated, especially by those in power.
As leaders, it’s the interpersonal impact that becomes your legacy. Sure, your contribution to the bottom line is important during the performance year and the shareholders will be pleased at the plus signs during your tenure. But, the many factors that contribute to an increase in an organization’s revenue will not make for a very inspiring speech at your retirement party. That money is already spent!
What would be a great and lasting legacy is the way you treated everyone with dignity, respect, fairness, and kindness when the going got tough, when you didn’t see eye to eye, when there was uncertainty and change and when you just didn’t feel like it. People will care about how you showed up, or didn’t, for other people. Not how you secured the bag for your pocket book, elevated yourself and your in-group, and stacked your trophy case.
Do it for others. 💫