There’s an old proverb that says, “A society grows great when old men plant trees whose shade they know they shall never sit in.” Whether or not those are the exact words, the message has stayed with me for years.
I’ve been thinking about that idea quite a bit lately.
When we’re young, much of our effort is focused on building something for ourselves. We work hard to establish our careers, provide for our families, purchase a home, and create opportunities that perhaps weren’t available to us before. There’s nothing wrong with that. In fact, it’s exactly what we should be doing.
But somewhere along the journey, something begins to change.
You start finding just as much satisfaction in helping someone else succeed as you do in achieving another milestone of your own. You realize that some of your most meaningful work isn’t measured by awards, commissions or titles. It’s measured by the people you’ve encouraged, the confidence you’ve helped build, the careers you’ve influenced, and the culture you’ve helped create.
In many ways, that’s exactly what this business is all about.
Every time an experienced agent takes a newer agent under their wing, they’re planting a tree. Every time someone shares an idea instead of keeping it to themselves, they’re planting a tree. Every time we protect our brand, uphold our standards, or take an extra few minutes to help a colleague solve a problem, we invest in an organization that will continue long after any one of us is here.
The interesting thing about planting trees is that it requires faith. You may never see how tall they grow. You may never meet every person who benefits from the shade they eventually provide. But that doesn’t make the effort any less worthwhile. In fact, it makes it even more meaningful.
As I reflect on my own career, some of the moments I treasure most aren’t transactions or business achievements. They’re watching people grow. Seeing someone gain confidence. Watching a new agent become a top producer. Seeing an employee step into a leadership role they once doubted they were capable of. Those are the moments that stay with you.
Success is wonderful. Legacy is something different.
As we head into another weekend, I’d encourage each of us to look for an opportunity to plant a tree. Share your knowledge. Offer encouragement. Mentor someone who’s just
beginning. Help solve a problem without expecting recognition. Do something today that may benefit someone years from now.
You may never sit in the shade.
But someone will.
And that’s a legacy worth leaving.
TERRY Talks 