First, let's look at what it isn't. It isn't a will. It isn't all about money. It isn't the same as estate planning. And, above all, it isn't just about death. It's about life—and passing on what matters most: your values and life lessons, your final wishes, your most prized personal possessions, and your financial assets.

Quite simply, a legacy includes your non-material assets—your possessions of emotional value. In fact, when defining a legacy, many people feel the non-financial, and sometimes intangible, things you leave behind are far more important than who gets the money. There is no greater gift you can leave than your values, traditions, beliefs and wishes. These are the true components of a personal legacy—the things money can't buy. The things that will be treasured by the next generation. And hopefully, become a part of their own personal legacy-for generations to come.