SEAHO Report - Summer 2019 - 11

SEAHO Feature Articles

Your Professional Legacy: How NOT to be a Burpee in
Someone's Professional Journey
By Stephanie Carter, Wake Forest University
I had the distinct pleasure of presenting one of the 2019 ACUHO-I Sprint sessions in Toronto, CA this June
and to say it was an awesome experience would be an understatement. My session was a mix of all my favorite
things to talk about, my son, Crossfit (including burpees) and Servant Leadership all in a quick 6 minutes and 40
seconds (whew!). Oddly enough, for as brief as my time on the stage was; I agonized for quite some time over a
topic to discuss. Mostly because I wanted it to be meaningful but secretly because I didn't want to get up there
and sound or look ridiculous, hopefully, I accomplished that. After having several conversations with others
pleading for them to suggest a topic (i.e. be the creative part of this process so I could do the rest of the work).
I found the answer when I looked up from my computer to one of the handwritten signs on my office wall. The
sign reads, what will your legacy be? This is my daily visual reminder that my actions in situations or inaction
to a situation can and will have consequences so pay attention and choose wisely. It prompted me to ponder how
many people think about their legacy from a creation and/or sustainability standpoint. When is the last time you
truly asked yourself, how do I want to be remembered? If you do this every day, fantastic! If you just did it now
for the first time, fantastic!
Ok, let's go ahead and get this out of the way. Should you decide to only skim this piece here is my 5-second
takeaway: always remember you are shaping your legacy every single day you are on this earth, every decision
you make, every interaction you have with others, it all factors into who you are and the legacy you are crafting.
Still with me? Ok, good! I am going to do my best to provide you with a few tangible reminders/nuggets of
wisdom as you work to build and/or sustain your legacy from me to you, you're welcome. As you progress
through life and your professional journey there are a few things to keep in mind. You, yes you, have the ability
and should always choose to live a life and create a legacy of being a light in someone else's life. There are
truly enough terrible things going on in the world so try not to add fuel to that fire. If no one has ever told you
this then let me be the first, people will sometimes remember your words, they will sometimes remember your
actions but most importantly they will remember how you treat them. Always be kind. Do yourself a favor and
don't overthink that reminder, little things make a huge difference. However, if you happen to find yourself
asking how you can light up someone else's life, here are a few quick suggestions:
* Smile at a stranger (or someone you know). Not a fake smile but a real smile. Smiling is known to reduce
stress in your body. I read an article that states smiling is almost the equivalent of getting "good sleep" as they
called it. I don't know about you, but I could always use more good sleep. No need to say cheese just smile
and reap the benefits.
* Write an encouraging note (or email or text) and send it to that person. It does not take much, a few kind
words go a long way for some people. Set a goal to do this daily, weekly or monthly whatever works for you
just make it a priority.
* Reach out to a friend when they cross your mind. Years ago, I never put too much thought into this concept but
as I've matured (a polite word for aged) I started placing more value on true friendships and that connection.
I often remind myself if someone has come across my mind it's for a reason and a simple text, call or social
media check-in may be just what they need from you.
* Ask someone how you can help them. I am not sure about you, but I naturally operate in a space where I try
to do most things myself without asking for help regardless of my true need for it. One day a friend reminded
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SEAHO Report Summer 2019

SEAHO Report - Summer 2019

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