Role Models and Why We Need Them
Who are your role models? Do you really need them? Has anyone ever asked you about role models?
In one form or another I’ve been helping others in the workplace for three decades. I’ve had the great fortune of seeing many people grow and develop their careers.
Unfortunately I’ve watched even more slip through the cracks just short of their reach for something more.
Sure, some people believe they can breakthrough on their own. Those with strong willpower and desire (hunger) probably can. That same person with the help of a good coach or mentor can probably achieve it sooner and with more quality, fewer mistakes, and a greater reputation for their work.
Role Models
Many of the people who I coach get this question from me, “Who are your role models?” Honestly, I typically don’t get a quick answer, and I don’t expect one. However, having a great role model or several role models can significantly impact your career.
Perhaps one of the greatest benefits to having a great role model comes from trying to close the gap.
You know the gap. It’s the one between your current behaviors, your knowledge, your skills and abilities, and those of the role model. Without a solid goal or a vision of where you want to be, you’ll likely not go very far.
When people attend school they feel an obligation to learn. When people attend a workshop, participate in an on-line course, read a book (or blog), watch a video, listen to a podcast, or receive advice from a mentor or coach they might feel a similar obligation.
The obligation is the relationship that exists between the student and the teacher. It’s a good one, but it’s different when compared with the obligation of becoming more like your role model.
Why We Need Them
People with role models set a visionary standard for themselves. They hold the role model in the highest regard. They respect, admire, and honor those who have set an example that they would like to follow.
Perhaps most important, they take responsibility to achieve more and they own the appreciation and humility often required to propel them to the next level.
This is their obligation, not because someone told them they should or must, but because it is their desire. It might be a grandparent, parent, brother or sister. Sometimes it might be a teacher, religious leader, or their boss. In other cases, it might come from a book, a movie, or even a friend’s recommendation.
The difference is that they own it, they own it by choice.
Make a Selection
Choose a role model, or select a few of the very best qualities from several.
Everyone needs role models, not just because they set the example, but because we find it an honor to strive to be that good.
– DEG
Dennis E. Gilbert is a business consultant, speaker (CSPTM), and corporate trainer that specializes in helping businesses and individuals accelerate their leadership, their team, and their success. He is a four-time author and some of his work includes, Forgotten Respect, Navigating A Multigenerational Workforce and Pivot and Accelerate, The Next Move Is Yours! Reach him through his website at Dennis-Gilbert.com or by calling +1 646.546.5553.
