When we think about leaving a legacy, it’s easy to imagine grand gestures or monumental achievements. The kinds of things that fill history books or get passed down in stories through generations. But the truth is, legacies are built in the small, everyday moments. They’re found in how we treat others, the values we live by. Perhaps, most importantly, they are found in the way we allow ourselves to be imperfectly human.
For someone like me—a recovering perfectionist—this idea didn’t come easily. For years, I believed that my legacy would depend on how well I could do things “right,” whether that was in my career, relationships, or personal growth. I thought if I could be flawless, I’d leave behind something meaningful. What I’ve learned instead is that perfectionism is not a legacy; it’s a barrier. True impact comes when we embrace our humanity and allow others to see it, imperfections and all.
The Power of Modeling Imperfection
Think about the people who have impacted you the most. Were they perfect? Probably not. What likely stuck with you was their authenticity—the way they showed up, even when they didn’t have it all together. They might have shared their struggles, owned their mistakes, or allowed themselves to be vulnerable in ways that made you feel less alone.
This is the kind of legacy I want to leave. I’ve come to see the immense power of modeling imperfection— making space for the messy parts of our selves. I strive to be approachable, honest, and willing to admit I don’t have all the answers. By showing that it’s okay to be imperfect, I hope to create a safe space where others feel empowered to grow.
Why Vulnerability Matters
Brené Brown famously said “Vulnerability is the birthplace of innovation, creativity, and change.” I couldn’t agree more. Vulnerability is what allows us to connect deeply with others. It inspires them in ways we can’t when we’re hiding behind a façade of perfection.
One of the ways I practice vulnerability is by sharing my own journey of overcoming perfectionism. I talk about how I’ve had to reframe the idea of “doing my best” to mean showing up with what I have that day—not striving for an impossible standard. I share how I’ve learned to forgive myself for mistakes and how letting go of assumptions. This is a principle inspired by Don Miguel Ruiz’s The Four Agreements that has freed me to engage more authentically with others.
Building Connection Through Realness
Legacy isn’t just about what we leave behind; it’s about the connections we create in the here and now. When we allow ourselves to be real, we give others permission to do the same.
At the end of the day, what matters most isn’t how perfectly we live our lives but how authentically we show up in them. The legacy I hope to leave isn’t one of flawless achievements but of meaningful connections, honest conversations, and permission for others to embrace their own imperfections.
Let’s redefine what it means to live and leave a meaningful legacy—one imperfect step at a time.
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