We all have people in our lives that we look up to and admire – those who we consider to be role models. These individuals inspire us and represent an example of the kind of life and success we aspire to. Role models can be public figures, personal mentors, friends and family members, or even fictional characters. Identifying and examining our role models can reveal a lot about ourselves and the kind of future we are shaping.
The Importance of Role Models
Role models serve as important sources of inspiration, motivation, and guidance. Seeing someone else achieve a level of success, overcome challenges, or embody admirable qualities can spark a desire within us to emulate them. Role models demonstrate what is possible and show us tangible examples of how to get there.
Looking up to role models is a natural part of human development. From a young age, we often model our behavior after parents, teachers, and other influential figures. As we get older, our role models may shift to public leaders, accomplished professionals, or cultural icons. Observing and internalizing the habits, values, and decision-making of these role models shapes our own identity, priorities, and aspirations.
Examining Your Role Models
Taking the time to truly examine our role models, however, is just as important as having them in the first place. The people and figures we choose to look up to say a lot about our own values, insecurities, and blind spots.
- Are your role models renowned for their wealth, fame, and material success?
- Or do they embody qualities like integrity, generosity, and service to others?
- Do you find yourself drawn to role models who push boundaries and take big risks, or those who demonstrate discipline, steadiness, and incremental progress?
The answers to these questions can reveal a lot about what you truly value and the kind of person you hope to become. We may be subconsciously attracted to role models who fulfill unmet needs or compensate for our own weaknesses. A workaholic businessperson, for instance, might be drawn to role models who seem to “have it all” – wealth, status, and influence – without recognizing the toll that lifestyle has taken on their personal relationships and wellbeing.
It’s important to look at not just the end results of our role models, but also the journey and choices that led them there. Incredibly successful people often make immense sacrifices, face significant challenges, and make difficult tradeoffs along the way. Idolizing the outcomes without understanding the full context can lead to unrealistic expectations and disappointment.
The Dangers of Blind Spot Role Models
When we’re not mindful about our role models, we run the risk of elevating flawed individuals and emulating behaviors or values that don’t ultimately serve us. Public figures, in particular, often project carefully curated images that may not reflect the full reality of who they are.
For example, many people were inspired by the vision and charisma of Steve Jobs, the co-founder of Apple. However, his intense perfectionism and reported abusive management style toward employees has led some to question whether he truly embodies the kind of leader they would want to emulate.
It’s easy to get blinded by the successes and accolades of role models without looking closely at the full scope of their actions and character. We may subconsciously overlook or minimize concerning behaviors or questionable ethics because we’re so enamored with their talents and achievements.
The Importance of Aligning Role Models with Your Values
Ultimately, the role models we choose to look up to should be those who embody the qualities, principles, and priorities that we most aspire to in our own lives. When our role models are closely aligned with our deepest values and most authentic selves, they can serve as powerful catalysts for growth, fulfillment, and positive change.
Carefully vetting our role models and always striving to understand the full context of their lives and choices is crucial. We must be willing to critically examine even our most cherished role models, and not hesitate to adjust our admiration or emulation if we discover unacceptable flaws or contradictions.
At the same time, it’s important to recognize that no human being is perfect. All role models will have their own unique weaknesses, blind spots, and struggles – even if they may excel in other areas. The key is to find role models who most closely align with the kind of person you aspire to become, and who can provide meaningful inspiration and guidance without leading you astray.
Your role models don’t just represent aspirational outcomes – they reflect the very essence of who you are and who you hope to become. By thoughtfully curating the examples you choose to follow, you can ensure that the path you’re on is one that truly honors your deepest values and helps you become the best version of yourself.
Let’s delve into your motivations, recognize and understand your role models, create customized strategies, and place you on the fast track to the life you desire.