AIM: To explore the perceptions that individuals with life-limiting illnesses have about their lives, both positive and negative, and their messages to future generations. METHODS: A preparation and life completion intervention (Outlook) was assessed for acceptability and feasibility in an Australian palliative care setting. This paper reports a qualitative analysis of the participants' responses to the intervention. The intervention sessions were audiotaped, transcribed, and analysed using interpretative phenomenological analysis. RESULTS: Eleven participants were recruited from inpatient and outpatient hospital and hospice settings. Three overarching themes were identified: life review, current situation, and legacy/principles. CONCLUSIONS: The intervention provided insights into individual palliative care patients' sense of self, views of their current situation, hopes, and how they would like to be remembered.