Friday thoughts on GROWTH #3 all things relatable
What is a role model?
A role model is either a person whom someone admires and seeks to emulate. It’s someone whose behaviour, example, or success serves as a model for others, especially younger individuals or someone who we really do not want to become.
Role models can inspire and guide us by demonstrating positive qualities, values, and attitudes. Whether it’s a leader, a sports star, a historical figure, or someone in our everyday lives, role models influence our aspirations and actions.
They provide a blueprint for how we might navigate challenges, make choices, and achieve our goals.
Here are some qualities of a good role model:
Integrity: A good role model consistently demonstrates honesty, transparency, and ethical behaviour. They act with integrity even when no one is watching.
Empathy: Role models show compassion and understanding toward others. They listen actively, consider different perspectives, and treat people with kindness.
Resilience: A strong role model faces challenges with determination and perseverance. They bounce back from setbacks, showing resilience in the face of adversity.
Positive Attitude: Role models maintain a positive outlook, even during difficult times. Their optimism inspires others and helps create a supportive environment.
Continuous Learning: Good role models value education and personal growth. They seek knowledge, learn from mistakes, and encourage curiosity in others.
Leadership: Role models lead by example. They inspire and motivate others, whether in their community, workplace, or family.
Generosity: A good role model is generous with their time, resources, and support. They give back to their community and help those in need.
Self-Confidence: Role models believe in themselves and their abilities. Their self-assuredness encourages others to believe in themselves too.
Adaptability: Role models embrace change and adapt to new situations. They demonstrate flexibility and open-mindedness.
Authenticity: The best role models are genuine and true to themselves. They don’t pretend to be someone they’re not, which makes their influence authentic and relatable.
Role models come in various forms—celebrities, teachers, parents, friends, or even fictional characters. The key is to learn from their positive qualities and strive to embody them in our own lives.
What about the converse? The bad role model as these can be just as useful for our growth and development.
Here are some characteristics of negative role models:
Unfriendliness: Negative role models tend to be unfriendly and uncooperative. They may not engage positively with others and might create a hostile environment.
Resistance to Learning: These role models may be unskilled in their job and unwilling to learn or improve. Their lack of growth mindset can hinder their own progress and set a poor example.
Conflict Instigation: Negative role models might try to pit co-workers against each other. They thrive on creating discord and animosity among colleagues.
Unexplained Anger: Without valid reasons, they exhibit anger and frustration. Their emotional volatility negatively impacts those around them.
Humiliation: Negative role models may intentionally humiliate others. They use demeaning language or actions, eroding self-esteem and trust.
Remember that identifying negative role models allows us to consciously avoid their behaviours and seek positive influences instead.
What then if there is no one in the public domain who inspires you and whom you would want to emulate?
Then, you need to become a good role model yourself. Being a role model isn’t about perfection; it’s about continuous improvement and conscious efforts to inspire others.
Here are some practical ways to be a positive role model:
Lead by Example: Practice what you preach. Model the behaviours and attitudes you wish to see in your team or community. When you take the lead, others notice and follow suit.
Mentor and Coach: Guide and support those around you. Share your knowledge, offer encouragement, and help others grow. Effective mentoring and coaching create a ripple effect of positive influence.
Acknowledge Weaknesses: Understand that no one is flawless. Identify your weak points and actively work to improve them. Seek advice, say “no” when necessary, and learn from mistakes.
Respect Everyone: Treat others with respect and empathy. Understand their struggles, listen actively, and create a supportive environment. Trust and admiration stem from genuine respect.
Communicate Openly: Be transparent and honest. Address challenges directly, share your experiences, and actively listen to others. Open communication builds trust and fosters positive relationships.
Walk the Talk: Ensure consistency between your words and actions. Integrity matters—what you do speaks louder than what you say. Align your behaviour with your values.
Remember, being a role model isn’t about being flawless; it’s about striving to be better and inspiring others along the way.
Taking it further and contemplating being an inspirational leader, what do we need to consider then?
An inspirational leader is someone who can motivate and inspire others to achieve their potential.
They go beyond mere management and create an environment where individuals feel empowered and driven.
Here are some key characteristics of an inspirational leader:
Purpose-Driven: Inspirational leaders help others understand their own purpose. They foster opportunities for individuals to step into their unique roles and contribute meaningfully.
Positive Influence: These leaders positively influence those around them. Their actions, attitude, and behavior inspire others to strive for success. They create a ripple effect of ambition and growth.
Authenticity: Inspirational leaders are genuine and authentic. They don’t pretend to be someone they’re not. Their sincerity resonates with others, making their influence powerful.
Calm Under Pressure: When faced with challenges, they remain calm and composed. Their ability to navigate stressful situations inspires confidence in their team.
Visionary: Inspirational leaders have a clear vision and communicate it effectively. They inspire others by painting a compelling picture of the future.
Empathy: They demonstrate empathy and understanding. By actively listening and considering others’ perspectives, they create a supportive environment.
Remember, being an inspirational leader isn’t about titles or authority—it’s about positively impacting lives and encouraging greatness in others. We all need to be leaders in our own way and to strive to emulate exactly what we wish to see in all aspects of life!
“Don’t think for a moment that there’s nothing to be learned from the people who’ve failed us. For some of the greatest lessons that we’ve been granted are from those who showed us how ‘not’ to do something. And we’d be wise to remember that some of those people are us.”