When you think of entrepreneurship, you often picture founders trying to “leave a mark” on the world—dreaming of building something that lasts forever. But in a candid episode of Raj Shamani’s Figuring Out podcast, Kunal Shah, founder of CRED, offered a refreshing reality check.
“In 50, 100 years, you will be forgotten.”
With that one sentence, he challenged one of the most romanticized ideas in business—legacy.
Why Kunal Shah Says Legacy Is Overrated
Shah explained that the world is evolving faster than humans can adapt—especially with technology and AI transforming everything at lightning speed. Think about it: the gadgets we used just 15 years ago are obsolete today. Even companies once seen as “forever” brands have vanished or been replaced by newer players.
Shah’s point? The odds of creating something that lasts for centuries are extremely slim. And that’s okay—it’s simply reality.
The Weight of Trying to Be Remembered
For many founders, chasing a legacy can be a heavy burden. Shah compared it to running a marathon with a backpack full of bricks—it slows you down and drains your focus from the joy of building something meaningful.
“Do things with integrity now. Don’t do them because you want a statue built in your name someday.”
A Quick Reality Check: Who Do We Really Remember?
How many entrepreneurs from the 1800s can you name? How about even 50 years ago? Unless they built something of monumental cultural significance, most names fade away. And even when we remember a product, we often forget the person behind it.
Why the Present Matters More
- Work with honesty and intensity today – that’s where your control lies.
- Impact lives in the present – that’s where meaning happens.
- Let legacy be accidental – not the mission.
Three Takeaways from Kunal Shah’s Advice
- Drop the legacy obsession – it frees your creativity.
- Be fully present in your work – integrity and curiosity matter most.
- Measure success in impact, not memory – help people today.
Final Word
Shah’s advice isn’t about ignoring the future—it’s about prioritizing the now. You don’t have to be immortalized in history to make a difference. Maybe the best legacy is the jobs you create, the people you inspire, and the innovations you bring to life today.