Many of us want to make a lasting impact on the world after we die. This could include doing something we can be remembered for, or simply doing something that will continue to have a positive effect after we have passed away.
There are so many different ways to leave a legacy. Below are just a few different options to consider.
Invest in a physical memorial
Some people love the idea of leaving behind a physical memorial as a way of preserving a memory of themselves. The most basic and popular form of memorial is a grave marker. By exploring different styles such as these cemetery grave markers by Memorials.com, you can pick out your own grave marker to reflect your life in a way that you see fit. Some people even invest in headstones or statues to place on their graves. You could also decide upon a memorable inscription to place on your grave marker.
Of course, these are not the only forms of memorial. Some people love the idea of investing in a bench in a place they are fond of. This can allow people visiting this location to sit down and take in the view, while also commemorating your life and preserving a part of your soul in that special place you always loved.
Alternatively, you could plan to have a tree planted as a natural memorial to your life. This could be located on your resting place or somewhere that is special to you. From out of your death will come life, and loved ones will be able to visit the tree and remember you.
Leave an inheritance to loved ones
Your legacy could involve leaving behind money or possessions to loved ones. This could be a way of passing on memories or simply helping out loved ones financially when you are gone. You can choose how much money and which possessions each loved one receives by writing a will.
If you haven’t got any money to leave behind, you could start contributing money now into a trust fund or set aside some savings. Alternatively, you could take out a life insurance policy that can pay your loved ones compensation when you pass away. There are sires online that can help you to compare life insurance quotes.
When it comes to leaving behind valuable possessions, consider whether there are any assets that you could invest in. You could invest in property or collectibles. A loved one can then choose to keep onto these for sentimental value or they can choose to sell them.
Make charitable bequests
On top of leaving behind money and property to loved ones, you can plan to make charitable bequests. This could include leaving behind money to a charity, a local organization or local project that you are passionate about.
You could also donate possessions to charities or museums, or even plan to leave behind a property for a charity to use. This is something else that you should include within a will (this guide at TrustAndWill.com explains more about charitable bequests).
Improve your community
There may be ways of leaving a lasting impact on your local community. This could include helping to set up local organizations or helping with local projects while you are alive.
By helping to improve your community, you’ll be positively affecting the lives of people for years to come. Consider what it is that your community needs and how you can help. Could you help improve your local sports team? Are there local environmental causes you could help with such as planting trees or cleaning up the beach? Could you campaign to build a new homeless shelter or add a new crossing to a road to make it safer? These are all ways in which you could leave behind a legacy.
Help other causes while alive
There could be other causes around the world that you can support. Your legacy could involve bringing about positive changes that affect the lives of people for years to come.
Consider which causes you are passionate about and work out how you can help. Even taking small measures such as creating videos to spread awareness or donating money can have big ripples.
Personally create something to leave behind
If you love the arts or you love crafts, you may be able to leave behind creations. This could include handmade items like paintings, sculptures, furniture, jewelry or knitted items. Alternatively, you could try publishing a book, recording a song, producing a film or creating online content.
These creations will outlast you and could allow you to leave an imprint on the world.
Write a journal of your life
You could also consider telling a story of your life through a journal that can then be handed down to loved ones. Your direct loved ones will likely treasure this journal. It could also allow generations after you to delve into their roots.
You could publish this journal online as a blog, or you could write a physical book that can be handed down. This guide explains more about how to journal your life.
Do good deeds
Small good deeds can have a big positive knock-on effect. They are also the things that people will remember you fondly for.
You could make it your mission to do one good deed every day whether it’s helping to do some DIY for a friend or helping carry a stranger’s pram up some stairs.
Have children
Having kids is a big responsibility and it isn’t for everyone. However, it is one of the best ways of leaving behind a legacy. On top of continuing your bloodline, you will be raising human beings who will preserve your memory and who (if raised right) will continue to have a positive impact on the world.
Not everyone can physically have children. However, you can still consider adoption. You could even consider simply working or volunteering with kids as a way of helping to shape the next generation.
Disclosure: This is a collaborative post.
