You Don't Have to Be Perfect to Be a Role Model

From what I know, being a role model doesn't entail that you must be the most successful person to be that. It doesn't also mean you must be perfect or you have answers to all the questions thrown at you at a time.

It could simply be your lifestyle and how much you can impact people positively. I know someone who always makes well-calculated decisions about training her kids, and when I discovered that, she became my role model, and I'm getting closer to her and learning better. She still struggles with her business, but that aspect of her life is simply unique, and thus, my role model.

Having said that, I can say yes to being a role model to someone else at this point in my life. This doesn't mean I have everything figured out, not at all. With all humility, I am still a learner in many ways. I still make mistakes, but each day, I try to be a better version of myself.

One thing is certain: people around us, especially younger ones, always look up to us; they learn from us in diverse ways even when we aren't aware of it. The way we talk, handle challenges, treat others, and do many more things, these people are watching and learning, whether it's the good or the bad side of our lifestyle. The fact that I grew up with my granma is a plus to me, because I learned many values from her, especially respect for the elders no matter their financial status.

This lesson has become part of me, and each time, I try to impact my kids, and yeah, this way I am a role model to them as long as I keep holding on to the good values always.

But then, would I agree to become someone's mentor if approached for it? Well, as long as I am very clear of what is expected of me, no issue. I can take up to such responsibility as this point in my life. The thing is that, I don't think to be a mentor, I must achieve everything in life first, but I also know that mentorship is not only about giving advice; there are more to it. Being patient, giving a listening ear, and more, and of course, as long as I can do most of this, and where I cannot, I must never admit it.

Another thing that makes me think that I can take up this responsibility is that I have this ability to help someone discover his or her strength while developing a full confidence. Encouraging people too is something I find lovable, and maybe these are good qualities of a mentee. I am not near to being perfect in any way; I still deal with my struggles and my weaknesses, and sometimes, I also seek support and encouragement from others, but then, it doesn't make me unqualified to mentor someone. As long as I can live by the same values I preach and I am open-minded to learning more, then it's enough to be a role model.

Overall, it will be joyful to look back someday to see that indeed, I have impacted someone or people.

image is mine