Life and business legacy are closely intertwined for those who own an SME print business.
Our regular contributor, Marcus Clifford asks, ‘What will your Legacy be, and what is your Print Legacy?’
I became very interested in the concept, notion, and issue of Legacy* some 10 years ago and have studied it a lot. Legacy can mean different things to different people and has many psychological states that drive it. It also includes practical issues such as money. Many forces help drive us to pursue goals and dreams, but the desire to leave a legacy gets stronger as we get older.
I have just launched a service which covers this topic and how you can build your life legacy now, not leaving it until later. Building your legacy means living the life you want now, investing in the important things that build on the important values, meanings and positive things you want to be known for. I talk to many people about unbundling issues and also removing barriers that may hinder progress, and there can be many.
The Print sector. A Legacy of Transformation! You are part of an ongoing seminal legacy project.
The print industry has fundamentally shaped the world by enabling mass communication, spreading knowledge, fostering societal change, and enriching culture. Its influence stretches across education, politics, business, and the arts, and even in the face of digital transformation, it leaves an indelible mark on human history. Its legacy continues to evolve, blending old practices with new technologies to adapt to a changing world.
Life Legacy and Business Legacy
The crux of legacy is that we look for ways to be existentially reassured that our lives mattered. Sometimes, we struggle to see clearly what actual human value we have created, particularly to loved ones. Regret, guilt, remorse, breaking patterns of behaviour, and smouldering family issues can stand in the way of feeling liberated just to get on and do the important building of a great legacy full of value and meaning. It’s a daily part of your life now. Don’t leave it too late.
There is an interesting exercise that involves writing your own obituary. Writing your own obituary is a powerful way to uncover your life’s purpose. By imagining how you want to be remembered, this exercise helps you find deeper meaning and clarity, allowing you to live with intention and focus on what truly matters. It’s about reconnecting with what truly matters now and getting on with it now.
Building a Legacy in Business
The psychological and personal drivers behind people who start or take over a business are often deeply rooted in their motivations, values, and life circumstances. While each entrepreneur’s journey is unique, several key drivers tend to influence business ownership:
The drivers for starting or taking over a business are highly personal, blending autonomy, purpose, passion, and financial incentives. Whether motivated by independence, the need for growth, the desire to make an impact, or the lure of risk and adventure, business owners are guided by a combination of psychological factors that shape their entrepreneurial journey. These motivations ultimately influence how they run their businesses and the legacy they aim to create through their work. Unfortunately, the original motivations, wishes, noble pursuits and values can be obscured by the need just to survive and keep things together, as business is a hard endeavour.
Ironically, I often, during a conversation, see the values, spirit, energy, passion, and personality of the younger version of the owner as what will help them get through and realise a better legacy.
When you own a business or have a stake in a business, realising your life’s work can be difficult and complicated. Things don’t always go your way, and you might not get the outcome you wish for.
Legacy and Long-Term Impact considerations- Succession and exit planning
Many are motivated by the desire to leave a lasting impact. Building a lasting legacy in business, especially for family-owned SMEs or long-established companies, requires a blend of long-term vision and adaptability. Be truthful with yourself about what you genuinely desire and discuss with someone what likely outcomes might be.
Your business has likely been a central part of your life. After years of navigating the highs and lows, many business owners eventually reach a point where they begin to consider succession planning seriously. While stepping away completely might seem appealing on some days, it’s important to consider a few key questions before making that decision.
A business exit strategy has advantages and challenges, and the best choice will depend on your SME’s unique circumstances, mindset, and circumstances. However, by reviewing your legacy in life and business, you can create a powerful manoeuvre or technique to handle a difficult situation.
Many key principles can be integrated for business owners to ensure their companies stay relevant in a competitive market and build a meaningful and lasting legacy.
Make it a mission to start living your legacy now and planning for a future legacy. Both can work together.
Call me to discuss ideas and options to rebalance, clarify and refocus yourself. A legacy is built on values, purpose, and impact. Sometimes, we need to discuss such issues with someone who understands objectively, can listen and apply relevant and workable solutions.
Marcus Clifford 0774 381 8806 Marcus@printboosterologist.com
* The term ‘Legacy’ originates from the Latin word legatus, meaning ‘ambassador, envoy, or deputy.’ In the late 14th century, the Old French word legacie refers to a group of individuals dispatched on a mission.
See more on our Blog page.
