We all know that eulogy virtues—character, kindness, courage, humility—are the ones people speak about when we’re gone. And yet, in our daily lives, resume virtues tend to take center stage: achievement, productivity, skills, and accolades.

David Brooks calls this out in his book The Road to Character, noting how society and our educational institutions disproportionately value the “doing” over the “being.” As someone who’s queen of color-coded lists (and lists of lists!), I’ll admit—I’ve glorified doing plenty. But I also know where my center lies.

Over a decade ago, I went through a deep process to craft a personal mission statement. You can find it on my website if you’re curious. I revisit it semi-regularly—especially as Toadie, my son, grows and shifts—and every time it still fits like a well-worn favorite. I’ve never felt the need to rewrite it.

But lately, I’ve been reflecting on what goes into that statement. Now I want to explore that mission more intentionally—by creating two lists: one for the resume virtues I embody through action, and another for the eulogy virtues I hold dear in being. And I’ll ask myself, “Am I living in alignment with these?”

Toad has taught me that legacy isn’t just what we leave behind—it’s how we live while we’re here. And our mission statements don’t just guide our businesses—they guide our relationships, our choices, our presence.

So whether you're parenting a child, nurturing a business, or caring for yourself through a season of growth… what virtues are shaping your being? And how do they show up in what you do?