FEAR THESAURUS

LEAVING NO LEGACY



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HELPFUL TIP:

A deeply embedded fear often stems from trauma, so it can be helpful to explore emotional wounds that may be a factor. Your character might also become risk-averse, which can create problems in their relationships and limit their fulfillment. And for a character to achieve their story goal, they must overcome any fear-based thinking that's holding them back. The Character Builder is a great resource for pulling all these factors together.
NOTES:
There are different kinds of legacies. Sometimes, it's accumulating something substantial, such as money or land, for one's children. In other cases, a legacy is a worthwhile accomplishment that will be remembered after the character's death. Legacy is often tied up in purpose, resulting in a character with this fear going to any length to leave their mark and prove that their life had meaning and substance.

WHAT IT LOOKS LIKE:
Being ambitious
Accumulating wealth or status (degrees, membership in exclusive clubs, etc.)
Protecting the legacy above all else
Overspending to impress the right people and win recognition
Having high expectations (for themselves and/or others)
The character focusing intensely on whatever path will make their legacy a reality
Passionately pursuing creative endeavors and acclaim
Donating significant amounts of money to charities, hospitals, or the arts
The character pushing their own children toward financial or creative success
Volunteerism
Keeping meticulous records and photos for posterity
Making emotional decisions (instead of logical ones) surrounding the legacy 
Using unethical means to keep others from blocking the character's pursuit

COMMON INTERNAL STRUGGLES:
Feeling guilty for missing family milestones in pursuit of the legacy
Wanting to leave a legacy despite knowing it won't last forever
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FLAWS THAT MAY EMERGE:
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HINDRANCES AND DISRUPTIONS TO THE CHARACTER'S LIFE:
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EMOTIONAL WOUNDS IT COULD STEM FROM:
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SCENARIOS THAT MIGHT AWAKEN THIS FEAR :
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HUMAN NEEDS THAT COULD BE IMPACTED:
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GOALS MADE DIFFICULT BY THIS FEAR:
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CONFLICT SCENARIOS THAT OFFER GROWTH OPPORTUNITIES:
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