The qualities of a good role model are those that also make you an effective leader. Being a good leader or role model means you have the ability to motivate others to follow your example willingly. Serving as a good role model or leader means that what you believe, say and do are all in alignment. Good role models bring out the best in people and are sources of guidance for others.
Function
The function of a good role model is to show respect for others. A good role model follows the "golden rule" of treating others the same way he would like to be treated. Expressing gratitude for others and never taking advantage of people for your own purposes is a key quality of a good role model.
Significance
It is particularly important for parents to serve as good role models for your children, as parents are the first source children look to for guidance in terms of how to think and behave. It is important for parents to be aware of this fact and to know that the choices you make every moment do not only affect yourself but also your children. As a role model, the most important thing is for you to actually do what you tell your children to (and not just tell them to do things "because you say so"). Children, after all, will do what you do and not always what you just tell them to do.
Features
Other than integrity, taking responsibility for yourself is another important quality for a role model to possess. You can demonstrate taking responsibility for yourself by apologizing and admitting when you make mistakes. It is also important to have humility in order to be a good role model. Good role models recognize that you are no worse or better than others. Being a good role model means you try to elevate those around you while understanding that your status does not make you some sort of god. Mahatma Gandhi is an example of a humble role model who worked to empower his followers.
Considerations
It is important to follow through to serve as a good role model. Following through on your commitments means being on time, finishing what you begin, not quitting, staying true to your spoken promises and persevering in the face of obstacles. Following through on achieving your own goals demonstrates to others that it is possible to achieve goals, providing them the inspiration to persist in order to do so themselves.
Misconceptions
Many people equate assertiveness with aggressiveness. While it is important for a good role model to avoid being aggressive, being assertive is actually necessary. Being assertive means having the ability to clearly state what you expect to avoid creating misunderstandings.
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