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As seniors, it’s important to consider the legacy you’re going to leave behind in this world. How are you going to be remembered? What will your epitaph read? Will people be wishing you had done something more with your life? Will they know what you wanted to do with your life if you never got around to it? Whether it’s setting up scholarship funds for college students, planting trees, or writing books that inspire others, there are lots of ways to leave a legacy behind when you’re gone from this world.
1) Set up a Scholarship Fund
A scholarship fund is a great way to leave a lasting impact on the next generation. While you may be too old to use your money for yourself, by setting up a scholarship fund, you can help others achieve their dreams. You can set up a scholarship fund at an organization like The American Legion or the National Scholarship Providers Association.
2) Create something with your hands
In the process of creating something with your hands, you are more likely to think about what you are making, as opposed to just clicking a button. Plus, it's an enjoyable way to create a lasting impact.
The materials and techniques you choose are also entirely up to you. You can create a handmade quilt or knitted blankets for homeless shelters. You could make homemade gifts for family and friends, such as home-baked cookies or personalized Christmas tree decorations.
3) Become a mentor
We need a lot more senior citizens to mentor younger people. Mentoring is important because it keeps seniors engaged and gives them purpose. But in order to succeed, you need the right skill set, personality, and temperament. You’ll also need some good ideas for how to connect with young people and what type of mentorship might be most beneficial for your mentee. And finally, if you have the opportunity to work with a company or organization that has formal mentorship programs, take advantage of that! It’s so much easier than starting from scratch on your own!
4) Volunteer
Volunteers are the backbone of many organizations. Giving your time and talents to a cause that you care about can be immensely rewarding and fulfilling. Volunteering also offers health benefits such as lower rates of depression, higher self-esteem, and reduced risk of stroke.
5) Donate to charity on a regular basis
One of the best ways you can leave a legacy is by giving back to the world. As a senior citizen, this can be as simple as donating to your favorite charity on a regular basis. Not only will it make a difference in the lives of others, but it will also help you feel good about yourself and serve as an opportunity for some self-reflection.
6) Use social media to help others
Seniors can use social media to help others. Whether it be providing information or support, seniors can make a difference on social media. They may want to share their life lessons and tips for living well with those who are struggling with similar issues. They may also want to connect with other seniors through groups to find new friends and create support networks that span the miles.
7) Write a book or record videos about life lessons learned from experience
You may not think that you have a lot to offer, but chances are you know a thing or two about life. If you're retired and thinking about what to do with your time, why not turn it into something that can benefit society? Share your insights by writing a book, recording videos or voice messages on important lessons learned in your life. If you're having trouble coming up with ideas, use Storii's prompts and questions to get you started.
8) Give back to the environment in some way
One way to leave a legacy is to give back to the environment. One of the easiest ways, and most rewarding things you can do for the environment, is planting trees. Trees provide a habitat for wildlife and reduce air pollution by absorbing CO2. Planting trees also helps retain moisture in the soil and prevents erosion.
