Practical Steps: Beyond the Spreadsheet
So, how do you move from success to significance? How do you ensure your wealth is a blessing and not a curse to your children? Here are three strategies we use with our clients:
1. The Legacy Letter
Don't let your only communication with your heirs be a legal document drafted by a stranger. Write a legacy letter. Tell them about the mistakes you made in the "messy middle." Tell them about the times you had to rely on faith when the bank account was empty. Share your values, your hopes for them, and your "why." This document often becomes more valuable than the inheritance itself.
2. Experiential Giving
Instead of waiting until you’re gone to pass on wealth, start "experiential giving" now. Fund a mission trip for your grandkids. Invest in a child’s business idea and mentor them through the process. See how they handle responsibility while you are still here to coach them. Use these moments to build their character before they ever receive a major distribution.
3. The Family Council
If you’re planning an exit, don't do it in a vacuum. Involve your family in the "why." You don't have to share every dollar amount, but share the vision. Let them see that you are acting as a steward, not just a consumer. When children see their parents being intentional with their resources, they are much more likely to follow suit.
Your Next Move
If you’ve reached the summit and realized the view isn’t what you expected: or if you’re staring down an exit and realize you’re not ready for what comes next: let’s talk.
You don't have to navigate this alone. As your "Quarterback," I can help you coordinate your advisors, clarify your purpose, and execute a plan that secures not just your wealth, but your legacy. We’ll look at your business, your family, and your faith to ensure everything is pulling in the same direction.
The most dangerous place to be is a successful Christian who has lost their mission. Let's find yours.
Reach out to me directly to talk about how this applies to your business and your family.
Chris Gardner
Founder, Generosity Driven
Email: chris.gardner@arkosglobal.com
Phone: (478) 249-2212
Connect with me on LinkedIn
Supporting Social Posts
LinkedIn Post 1: The "Success Trap"
You’ve hit the numbers. The business is thriving. So why does it feel like something is missing?
Many entrepreneurs find that financial success is actually a mirage: it provides comfort, but not meaning. In my latest blog post, I dive into why money alone won’t secure your family’s legacy and how to move from "Success to Significance."
Read more here: [Link to Blog]
#Legacy #ExitStrategy #GenerosityDriven #BusinessOwner
LinkedIn Post 2: The Quarterback Approach
When you’re planning a business exit, who is coordinating the team?
Your CPA wants to save taxes. Your attorney wants to mitigate risk. But who is looking at your life outcomes? As a "Quarterback" for business owners, I help ensure your exit strategy aligns with your actual purpose, not just the balance sheet.
Check out the full breakdown on the blog: [Link to Blog]
#ExitPlanning #BusinessSuccession #Stewardship
X (Twitter) Post:
"The most dangerous place to be in your Christian walk is to be a successful Christian."
Success can breed complacency. Stewardship is the countermeasure.
Read why Meaning Matters more than Money in my latest post: [Link to Blog]
#KingdomBusiness #Legacy #PurposeDriven