How to Leave a Legacy: The Ripple Effect

I want to leave a legacy. How ‘bout you? I want to know I left a mark on this world and not just any old mark, but one that really made a positive difference in as many lives as possible. Sound impossible? No way! Every action you take has the potential to be a ripple effect.

What do I mean by “ripple effect”? Well think about a bowl of water sitting in your sink. It’s just sitting there, but then the sink drips and one drop falls into the bowl. What happens? It hits and the water ripples outward. Simple, eh? Sure it is!

You have a sphere of influence in your life. You have the people you come in contact with every day – your children, spouse, co-workers, etc. Then there are the people you see or contact regularly – your friends, the people at the bank, the grocery store, the gas station, extended family. Finally, there are the people you randomly run into – the person you pass walking to your car, the mom with the screaming child at Wal-Mart.

All of these people represent your bowl of water. What kind of influence are you having on them? How can you leave a legacy? It’s simple!

First you need to appreciate that they are a blessing (even the obnoxious ones). Next, you need to pay attention to what makes you uniquely you. Are you funny, cheerful, kind, exuberant, shy? There is no right or wrong here – it’s just YOU!

Now, BE you! Let yourself be who you authentically are and “drip” into that bowl. When you’re genuine, your ripple can affect people in ways you can never imagine. But it requires you being willing to make an impact. Set that intention now! How can I cause a ripple effect today?

Want to know a secret? Your ripple effect doesn’t just impact those around you. It impacts you as well. By stepping out and being more of your true self, you are positively impacted. You know you’re living your life on purpose rather than just going through the motions.

One of the biggest compliments I ever received was a 3rd party telling me about a conversation he’d had with a friend of mine. This friend said “I just love being around Alyssa. Her smile lights up a room and you just can’t help but be in a better mood.” Laughter and joy are my gifts and I try to use them as often as I can. So what about you? How are you going to cause a ripple effect today? Go on, leave a legacy – I dare you!