Career choices can also influence a family’s legacy. When children view a job simply as a means to make money, their careers can be unfulfilling. Haenselman is excited to see the evolution as younger generations redefine success. She works with teens and young adults to identify their passions so that they can live—and work—with purpose.
“Rather than stepping into a world that’s already laid out for them, they’re setting their own course,” she says.
When your children are creating their own paths, focusing on commonalities as opposed to differences can help older and younger generations within the family appreciate the values they share. For example, if a child starts a business that’s in a different industry from one the family founded, focusing on the shared value of entrepreneurship allows everyone to focus on what they have in common.
These discussions of shared values shed light on ways that the intent is similar, despite differing execution, and can bring families closer together, Herritt says.
Bill Lyons, director of governance with the Center for Family Legacy adds: “There are times when “young people who are pursuing their passions may not receive a strong economic benefit. But it’s amazing to see families still encourage it and even identify ways to support someone who may be earning less than other family members.”
And when family members have fulfilling careers and feel connected to the family’s values, they’re more likely to be engaged in furthering the family’s legacy.