As business leaders, most of us want to leave a name behind that our peers, our teams, and our communities will remember. This is driven by the belief that we can create something bigger than ourselves. Unfortunately, we often get caught up in the crossfire between our competing wants: to build a legacy and to make money… fast.
Think hard for a minute: What drives your actions and decisions as a business leader? Are you motivated by the thrill of the sprint, focusing on getting to the finish line the fastest, or are you preparing for a marathon, eyeing the long haul? This is the essence of the ‘legacy concept’ – it’s not about the sprint but the endurance to keep going, to build something that lasts.
Too often, as leaders, we’re more concerned about quick wins and immediate results.
The validation.
The proof points.
That sweet, sweet dopamine hit.
And it’s no surprise, given that our brains are wired to prioritize short-term interests thanks to a little something known as cognitive bias. Simply put, we’re more likely to prioritize immediate reward opportunities than we are to invest in longer-term reward opportunities.
This means we chase after short-term goals instead of playing the long game.
And, while there’s nothing wrong with short-term goals, if your entire focus is on immediate success, you might overlook the long-term sustainability and growth of your organization. That’s like sprinting at the start of a marathon – you might lead initially, but will you actually have the stamina to finish the race?
(Hint: probably not.)
The legacy concept shifts this focus.
It encourages leaders to view their journey as a marathon, not a sprint. This mindset fosters long-term planning, consistent growth, and a sustainable pace that keeps you moving forward, even when challenges arise. And this is where we come in.
As a leader, your legacy is more than just the profits you make or the products you create. It’s about the culture you foster, the team you build, and the values you uphold.
Your legacy is what remains long after you’ve left the room. It’s the long-lasting impact you create through your actions and decisions.
So, how do you embrace the legacy concept?
First, define what you want your legacy to be. What do you want to be remembered for? Once you have a clear vision, align your actions and decisions with this vision. Revisit this often.
Second, invest in your team. They are your most valuable asset. Foster their growth, empower them, and lead by example. A leader’s true legacy is in the growth and success of their team. Hire fast. Promote faster. Fire fastest.
Third, focus on sustainable success. Prioritize long-term growth over quick wins. Make decisions that benefit your organization in the long run. The quick wins? They’ll come, too.
Finally, get in touch with me. If you’re ready to embrace the legacy concept and lead your organization toward sustainable success, we should talk.
Together, we can transform your organization into one that not only achieves success but also stands the test of time.
Your journey towards lasting impact awaits – take the first step today. Remember, it’s not a sprint but a marathon. So, let’s run it well. DM me to learn how we can help.
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