The human impulse to leave a lasting impact—often called “legacy”—is shifting from a late-life chore to a proactive psychological tool for long-term well-being. According to Beth Hunter, a professor at Bowling Green State University and a specialist in legacy research, every individual leaves a legacy whether they intend to or not. Modern research suggests that intentionally curating this footprint, whether through values, biological contributions, or material assets, can reduce death anxiety and improve mental health across the lifespan.
How Legacy Thinking Transforms Mental Health
Thinking about one’s legacy acts as a bridge from “death anxiety” to “death reflection,” according to research cited by experts like Kimberly Wade-Benzoni. Rather than fearing the end, individuals who document their values or life stories report higher levels of peace and a clearer sense of purpose. This process, sometimes called “generativity”—a term coined by psychoanalyst Erik Erikson in 1950—is the drive to contribute to future generations. Studies show that when people engage in “legacy activities” like writing ethical wills or organizing family histories, they experience lower rates of depression and anxiety, even when facing terminal illness.
In 2021 alone, more than 26,000 people in the United States donated their bodies to medical science. Research from Belgium indicates that 16% of body donors explicitly cited a desire to give their death “meaning” as their primary motivation for the gift.
The Three Pillars of Legacy
Researchers categorize the ways people leave a mark into three distinct, often overlapping areas. Understanding these categories helps individuals plan their impact more effectively:
- Biological Legacy: This includes genetic lines, but also extends to organ donation and the donation of one’s body to medical research. The Visible Human Project, which utilized the remains of activist Susan Potter to create a 3D anatomical model, serves as a prominent example of how physical remains can educate future generations.
- Material Legacy: This covers traditional assets, including wealth, real estate, and family heirlooms. However, studies show that people often place more weight on the stories attached to these items than the monetary value itself.
- Value-Based Legacy: Often considered the most significant by researchers, this involves passing down moral principles, faith, and life lessons. Unlike wealth, this form of legacy is shared through behaviors and recorded narratives.
Why Younger Generations Should Start Now
While legacy planning is traditionally associated with the elderly, experts argue that the benefits of “legacy thinking” are most potent when applied throughout adulthood. By identifying core values early, individuals can align their daily decisions—such as career choices or volunteer work—with the mark they wish to leave. Psychologist Jesse Bering notes that humans view themselves as the protagonists of their own life stories; consciously crafting the “moral” of that story can provide a sense of coherence that buffers against the stresses of modern life.
Don’t wait for a milestone to start. Begin by writing down three core values you want to pass on to your family. Research suggests this simple act of “ethical documentation” fosters a sense of accomplishment and helps clarify what truly matters in your daily routine.
The Future of “Symbolic Immortality”
As technology evolves, the ways we leave a mark are becoming increasingly digital. From ethical wills stored in the cloud to permanent digital archives, the concept of “symbolic immortality”—the idea that our influence persists after our physical existence—is gaining traction. While researcher Jesse Bering warns that an obsessive focus on how one is remembered can distract from the joys of the present, the consensus among scholars is that intentionality is key. By treating legacy as a living project rather than a final task, individuals can foster a stronger connection to their community and a more profound sense of personal meaning.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an “ethical will”?
An ethical will is a document that expresses your values, life lessons, and hopes for the future. Unlike a legal will, it does not distribute assets, but rather passes on your wisdom and moral legacy to loved ones.
Is it better to leave money or values?
Research indicates that while material assets are practical, people often find the transmission of values, stories, and beliefs to be more personally fulfilling and impactful for the next generation.
Does thinking about death make you sad?
Not necessarily. According to researchers like Kimberly Wade-Benzoni, shifting from “death anxiety” to “death reflection” by planning your legacy can actually reduce fear and increase life satisfaction by helping you find purpose in the present.
Have you started documenting your life lessons for the next generation? Share your thoughts in the comments below or subscribe to our newsletter for more insights on living a life of purpose.
