Making Your Mark: How to Leave a Lasting Legacy, Inspired by Chef Margarita Fores
90-Day Challenge: Day 13 of 90
The news of Chef Margarita Fores' passing yesterday sent shockwaves through the culinary world and beyond. It was a stark reminder of life's fragility, its fleeting nature. As a fan of her work, a frequent visitor to Grace Park, Lusso, and Cibo, and someone who was eagerly anticipating the opening of her new Margarita restaurant in Ayala Triangle, I felt a pang of sadness. But more than that, I felt a surge of inspiration.
Chef Fores was a champion of Filipino cuisine, a culinary ambassador who brought our flavors to the world stage. While her love for Italian food was evident in her restaurants and menus, she always found ways to incorporate Filipino ingredients and influences, showcasing the richness and diversity of our culinary heritage.
A Life Maximized
What struck me most about Chef Fores was her ability to truly maximize her life and influence. She wasn't just a talented chef; she was a leader, an innovator, and a force for good in the culinary world. She built an empire, mentored countless aspiring chefs, and left an indelible mark on the Filipino food scene.
Her passing made me reflect on my own life and work. Am I making a meaningful impact? Am I leaving a positive legacy? I believe I am.
Leadership as a Foundation
My passion for leadership stems from a deep-seated desire to make a difference. In 2017, I wrote down my personal vision:
"To be a leader of this world. A force for good. To give before receiving and going first but eating last. To model growth, joy, integrity, and compassion. To inspire others to live at their highest potential. To believe big, act big, achieve big. It's all possible."
This vision guides my actions and fuels my purpose. Whether it's leading my 130-member agency, mentoring aspiring financial advisors, or contributing to industry organizations, I strive to make a positive impact. I believe in elevating the standards of the financial advising profession, and I do this through my own practice, by developing high-quality advisors, and by actively participating in initiatives that benefit the industry as a whole.
The Ripple Effect of Influence
We all have the power to make a difference, no matter how small it may seem. Every act of kindness, every gesture of support, every effort to contribute to our communities creates a ripple effect that can extend far beyond our immediate sphere of influence. Who knows, your positive influence on one person might inspire them to make a difference in the lives of others, and so on, creating a chain reaction of positive change.
Leaving a Lasting Legacy
Just like Chef Margarita Fores, let's strive to leave a lasting impact on the people and communities around us. Let's use our talents, our passions, and our influence to make the world a better place. Let's be leaders, innovators, and forces for good. Let's live lives that matter.
In honor of Chef Gaita Fores, what small act of leadership or kindness will you do today? Share your intentions in the comments below.
Peace.✌️ Love you all.😍