Why Should We Have Role Models and How to Discover the Right Role Model

Role models of today's generation (clockwise from top left) Barrack Obama, Oprah Winfrey, Bill Gates, Steve Jobs.

Successful people all have one thing in common; it is that they have role models to follow in their lives. I personally think it is an important element on the path of self-improvement.

Some might say that it is unnecessary to look for a role model and they can still succeed without a role model. To counter that argument, I will state some of the benefits of having role model in our lives.

Firstly, learning about someone’s success story will give us a different outlook on issue that we deal with, which could change our mindsets to become better.

For example, Nick Vujicic, the internationally known limbless motivational speaker has set an example to those who are limbless and disabled, that these ‘shortcomings’ could turn out to be ‘blessings.’

Nick Vujicic is a motivational speaker born with Phocomelia, a rare
disorder characterized by the absence of all four limbs.

As we learn more from our role models, we may adopt their good qualities and habits too. Take me for example; I really admire Father Anthony Ng, a priest in Saint Ignatius Church, who treats everyone equally despite their background. For example, he will greet the garbage collector equally genuine as how he would greet the parishioners in church. Ever since, I will make a conscious effort to be humble and treat everyone equally, just like Father Anthony.

Here are just some of the great examples of how having a role model could make a difference to our personal growth and life.

So here are some simple questions which could help you discover the right role model for you:

1. What kind of person do I aspire to be?

2. What do I want to achieve and is there someone who achieve that?

3. Is there anyone that empowers me with his/her words, vision and qualities?

After going through these questions, you should be clearer on whom you will like to take inspiration and direction from.