How to Leave a Legacy That Matters: The Three Questions You Need to Answer

How much is enough? It’s a question we all face at some point—whether we’re planning for the future of our loved ones, supporting the causes we care about, or considering our own needs. In estate planning, this question becomes even more profound. It’s not just about dollars and cents; it’s about balance, purpose, and ensuring your wealth reflects the life you’ve lived and the legacy you want to leave behind.

There’s an old story about a wealthy man who passed away. When someone asked his accountant, “How much did he leave behind?” the accountant replied, “Everything.” It’s true—you can’t take it with you. As the saying goes, you’ll never see a hearse pulling a U-Haul. But how much you leave—and how you leave it—matters deeply. A thoughtful estate plan ensures that your wealth provides for your family, supports your passions, and leaves a legacy of meaning and values.

The Three Questions That Define Your Legacy

1. How Much Is Enough for My Family?

Providing for your family is often the first priority in estate planning, but “how much” isn’t just a financial question—it’s an emotional one. Will your estate empower your loved ones to thrive? Will it encourage independence and growth, or could it inadvertently create dependency?

A thoughtful plan ensures that what you leave behind provides stability and opportunity while preserving harmony. It’s not just about financial security—it’s about leaving behind the values that will guide your family long after you’re gone.

2. How Much Is Enough for Charity?

Estate planning offers a unique chance to extend your impact beyond your lifetime. How much do you want to give, and which causes reflect your values?

Strategic charitable giving lets you align your wealth with your life’s purpose. Whether through donor-advised funds, charitable trusts, or direct bequests, your generosity can create a ripple effect that benefits your community and the world. It’s not just about generosity—it’s about ensuring your legacy makes a lasting difference.

3. How Much Is Enough for Me?

Before you can provide for others, you must ensure your own peace of mind. How much is enough for you to live comfortably, pursue your dreams, and navigate life’s uncertainties?

Answering this question helps you create a plan that balances present security with future generosity. It ensures you approach estate planning from a place of confidence, knowing your needs are met first.

Bringing Your Vision to Life

Once you’ve answered these key questions, estate planning tools can help bring your vision into focus. For a deeper dive into the essential components—like wills, trusts, and charitable giving vehicles—check out our blog post: Writing Your Final Chapter: A Guide to Thoughtful Estate Planning.

Building a Legacy That Lasts

Estate planning isn’t just about transferring wealth—it’s about transferring values. It’s about providing for your loved ones, supporting the causes you believe in, and ensuring your story continues to inspire and uplift.

Take the time to reflect on these questions: How much is enough for your family, for charity, and for yourself? Thoughtful answers today will shape a legacy that reflects not just the life you lived but the life you want to leave behind.

Because while you can’t take it with you, how much you leave—and how you leave it—will define the legacy you’re remembered for.