When most people hear the word "legacy," they think about what they will leave behind after they're gone, like a family home, an investment portfolio, a business, or treasured heirlooms. For many families, leaving financial security for loved ones is an important goal and a meaningful part of their legacy. But what if legacy is about more than the assets you leave behind? What if it's also about the impact you make while you're here?

Too often, people consider their work done once their estate planning documents are complete. Estate planning should be much more than simply having a will or a trust; it should also focus on what you want to achieve in life and what you want to pass on beyond your assets. This is called a "Legacy Plan"; it defines your goals and allows your purpose to be carried forward to have a continuing impact on the world. Legacy planning is a proactive and intentional process, building your legacy over the course of your lifetime.