The Importance of Role Models

Role models are people whom others look up upon and emulate because of their outstanding character or behavior. Tiger Woods and Michael Jordon are two sportsmen who make good models. People who admire their backgrounds, persistency and achievements want to model after them.

But it's not only admirable characters that people take after. Any striking quirks are also being copied especially by the younger people. Some high profile celebrities and public figures show bad examples. But kids copy them and want to become an exact image.

It's important that you too become a good model. You have different roles in life. You are being modeled without your realization. Your children, colleagues, and other people are either consciously or unconsciously emulating your qualities and strengths.

You are your children's idol, your spouse's strengths and an example to some others. People who are close and dear to you are watching and absorbing your conduct and beliefs and you are their shining example. It is important then that you develop a set of admirable characteristics for your children to copy and mimic.

"Look for role models who have succeeded in achieving goals similar to your own - individuals with whom you can personally identify." - Denis Waitley

Finding Role Models

Know what you want to model.

Decide on the trait, quality, behavior or result you want to achieve. If one of your weaknesses is making decisions, look for a mentor who demonstrates that quality and who continually succeeds.

Find someone you respect and admire.

The people you work with, your family, your children, books, stories and many other sources are available. You can choose several individuals to become your mentors, each one helping you in different areas in your life. What matters most is what works and how they make things happen.

Read autobiographies and stories.

Everyone has a story to tell. Reading stories and autobiographies of people who have made it in spite of obstacles and difficulties is inspiring and motivating. Stories provide other people's experiences. Reading them will help you avoid the mistakes and take the right path. They provide lessons and can liberate you from your limited thinking and saves you time and the pain and frustrations from your trial and errors.