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Role Models

Many teenagers look upon sports stars as role models. Role models in sports not only display important sport-related characteristics, but also attributes that are important in our daily lives, including persistence, accomplishment, and acceptance. Below is a definition of role models. In how many of these aspects does Silken Laumann qualify as a role model.

Role models. . .

• are people who show strong admirable values by example and action,
• have behaviours that match their ideals,
• feel good about who they are and are comfortable with themselves,
• are confident and willing to show themselves and their belief to others,
• earn your respect through example,
• are people with similar pressures, issues, and questions as the rest of us,
• show grace, wisdom and good judgment,
• are not perfect but show persistence,
• are risk-takers and are willing to stand up for what is right,
• have learned and grown from their experiences as leaders, and
• are not static, but continue to grow and allow others to grow.

Now let's look at role models in more detail, and then we will ask you to do an exercise that will define some role models (or potential role models) in your life.

To begin this search for role models, think of a person you admire very much. It could be someone famous in his or her field of work, someone in the community, or even a special friend. What are the special characteristics or qualities that this person possesses that lead you to describe them as role model material? Next, think about how the person displays these qualities. Here is an example:

We always talk about other people as role models for us, but what about ourselves as role models for other people. Now look at yourself as a possible role model for others. Examine your positive qualities or characteristics and consider how you display these characteristics. We are often known by what we do.

Here are some sample things you might think about that could be positive role-model qualities:

• I am known for my sportsmanship on the basketball court.
• I am active in organizing activities such as school dances which lift one's spirits.
• I always let my parents know where I can be reached.
• I don't monopolize the TV or the telephone.
• When friends loan me CDs I return them promptly and in good condition.

Write down the things you do that could be considered positive role-model qualities for your younger brothers or sisters, your classmates at school, or your friends.

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