Developing Your Leadership Legacy

Every leader has a legacy. Let me say that again—EVERY leader has a legacy. Whether it’s good or bad, and whether it’s intentional or not, every leader has a legacy.

What is the legacy you’re leaving? In your current position or circle of influence, what do you want to leave in your wake for those who come behind you? It takes intentionality to leave a legacy that has purpose and clarity and leaves people better because of your leadership. John says people will summarize your life into one sentence—which can be scary to think about, I know! But if you were able to write that sentence now, what would you want it to say? And once you know that, how do we make that happen?

I think there are few key ways to get started.

1. INTROSPECTION.

There are two questions to start with: What is it you want to be known for in your life, and in the current position you hold? Take some time to reflect and get laser-focused on that. And the second question is, what are you known for now? Analyze that gap and work toward figuring out how you can pull those two questions together and close that gap.

2. INVEST.

How are you investing in yourself, so that you can invest in other people? What value are you adding to your boss, your team, your coworkers? Your values help shape your behaviors and act as a filter for decision-making for you; they allow you to be consistent in making decisions that will protect your legacy in that position and as a leader.

3. IMPACT.

What is the impact of other people on you, and what’s your impact on other people? John says we become the average of the five people closest to us, so we need to be wise about those we allow to impact our lives. And also, what impact are you leaving to others? Are you encouraging them to grow, learn, and change as needed? Are you coaching them to go higher in relationships, work, finances, growth potential, and spiritual life?

4. INTENTION OVER INHERITANCE

Legacy isn’t just about what you pass on—it’s about how you shape the environment right now. Inheritance is what you leave for people. Legacy is what you leave in people. Are you being intentional with your actions and words today so they will be remembered tomorrow? This could look like mentoring a future leader, modeling integrity in tough situations, or being consistent in your encouragement. These intentional moments may seem small, but they echo far beyond your immediate influence.

5. INFLUENCE THAT OUTLIVES YOU.

True leadership legacy is about empowering others to lead well after you’re gone. Are you developing the people around you in a way that prepares them to grow, carry the mission, and lead others in return? It’s not just about setting a good example—it’s about multiplying your values through others. Legacy-minded leaders think generationally, not transactionally. They leave behind tools, not just memories.

The word “legacy” can feel overwhelming. At Maxwell Leadership, we carry John’s legacy by continuing to learn and share his vast knowledge of leadership. That’s our professional legacy, and it’s a huge one! But what’s my personal legacy? What’s yours?

Start to look inward at these three things and take ownership of shaping the legacy you’re leaving, both in your current work position, but also in life.

What else is shaping how you view your legacy?

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