Finishing Well: Part III

Recently author, Bob Shank, shared about succession planning with a small group of Kansas City leaders. Bob stated that our choices include lingering, committing larceny, or leaving a legacy.

The final and best choice Bob proposed is leaving a legacy. Focusing on what’s best for the future of the organization will lead you to investing in those leaders who follow you.

The truly great leaders are those who turn their focus to leaving a legacy by training and coaching the next generation.

In Matthew 10:1 we read, “Jesus called his twelve disciples to him and gave them authority to drive out impure spirits and to heal every disease and sickness.”

Jesus left an amazing legacy by investing in those who would remain when He left. Jesus poured His life into twelve disciples before leaving this earth which resulted in a legacy today of billions of followers.

If we desire to leave a legacy in our workplace, it may be time to start looking for those with whom we should invest our time and talent.

Questions for Reflection

• What kind of legacy would you like to leave? Who could use your attention or assistance? How could you use your remaining time to benefit your colleagues' careers?
• How would you feel about your successor being so well trained and prepared that they outperform you, taking your organization to a higher level?
• What were you taught before taking up your role that could be useful for your successor? What were you taught by taking up your role?
• Who is one person in whom you will commit to begin investing?