A legacy is something you pass on to future generations. It can be a financial gift, an inheritance, or the personal impact that remains long after you’re gone. My sister recently received a speaking assignment on “Leaving a Legacy,” and it got me thinking about what I would say if I were assigned that topic. Here are some immediate thoughts:

Start with your family. If you are blessed to have children, grandchildren, or other family members you influence, take that responsibility seriously. Be a model for hard work and integrity. Help them find their passion and pursue it, expose them to enriching experiences, and demonstrate character and integrity through life’s trials.

Find good teams. You will not build your legacy alone. Legacy builders understand the vital role of teamwork and community in accomplishing lasting achievements. Seek out and participate with teams that share your vision and values.

Invest in talent. While a CEO might invest in talent by dedicating financial resources to training, recruitment, and compensation, I mean something different. From time to time, you’ll encounter people with special talents and abilities—their passion and heart make them stand out. When you see them, invest your time: include them in your network, do them a favor, and follow their career. You make a difference when you encourage talent.

Engage and initiate. Most people who create a legacy don’t even know they’re doing it at first. They simply act because something needs to be done—they’re engaged and ready to initiate change. Legacies won’t find you; you must create them.

Legacy building is a process. Those who build legacies are dedicated to influencing the world around them. Join in with those striving to change their world. Lead where you stand. It’s how you make your life count.

-Howe Q. Wallace Jr