Every once in a while, we hear a sports hero, celebrity, or person of prominence decry: “I am not a role model.” It is an interesting statement because role models, like heroes and mentors, often are not labels we give to ourselves—they are badges of honor given to us by people who find us deserving.

The awe, the inspiration, the hope, and even the joy we bestow just by being ourselves leads people to look up to us, emulate us, and ultimately assign us the status of a role model. A role model is a leader, perhaps a shy, reluctant, or clandestine leader, but a leader nonetheless.

I recently pondered these thoughts in addressing 500 attendees at the Women in Leadership breakfast. One dictionary definition of leader is “one who is in charge or in command of others.” Whether that command comes from respect of a special talent, a unique skill, or physical or mental prowess, it evokes emotion from those who come into contact with that talent, skill, or prowess. And as long as you are the beholder of such command, you are a leader—on purpose, or by accident.

Being “at the top of your game,” striving to “be the best,” or “pursuing the ultimate” in a chosen field of endeavor will garner followers. It may be uncomfortable, unwanted, scary, or daunting, but often being a leader—or a role model—is not just your choice. When you inspire others, they will continue to look to you for inspiration. And when you are an inspiration, you are a role model.

Too often we think of role models as people in specific roles—as in a teacher, politician, or policeman. Positions such as these bear the torch of being “pillars of society,” the actions of whom our children should watch and follow. But title alone is not enough to assume leadership; just one look at recent headlines—teacher misconduct with students, broken political promises or abuse of public trust—shatters our traditional picture of the role model.

The bottom line is that each of us is a role model, a leader to someone—whether it is our children, coworkers, subordinates, or even if we are the clerk whose smile changes someone’s day. Each of us can model attitudes to emulate, carry out actions that inspire, or be a presence to admire. Every day can be the day you change someone’s life. So whether it is a role you have intended or one you have stumbled into, make the most of it for yourself and those who look to you for direction.

Embrace it. Just as giving yourself the title of role model does not mean people choose you to be one, likewise purporting “not to be” one can be a futile course of action. When you strive to be the best—whether you have conquered challenges, overcome adversity, elevated yourself to the top of your field, or chosen to spread positivity in everyday life—people will take notice, and many will admire you for it. Instead of absolving responsibility for your actions, take pride in who you are and what you have become.

Be yourself. Often it seems those wanting to dismiss the title of role model feel it will limit what they can do, who they can be. Being a leader does not make you superhuman, devoid of faults and complex intricacies; rather the more human you are, the more people can relate to you and what you bring to the table. Part of the problem with the title “role model” just may be the expectation that accompanies it—expectations we ourselves see as part of the role or that others attach to the title. Remember, the very fact that you are you is much of why you are considered a role model. If everyone were the same, whom would we emulate? What would make us strive to be better?

Speak your truth. By nature, leaders defy expectations. Many of us allow ourselves to fall into the rut of expectation, modeling the path of what we think we should follow, rather than what we know to be true in our hearts. Dare to defy convention—even if that convention is a limit placed upon yourself in your own mind. Strive every day to speak your truth, choose to confront the fear that chains you to mediocrity, and truly forge a path to greatness.

When someone in your presence gives you that rare glimpse of recognition—the innate knowledge that your skill, your actions, or your prowess have gone beyond the ordinary to the impressive—rise to the occasion. Instead of backing down with a resolution of “I am not a role model,” accept the challenge. Realize that you have a gift—a gift that can inspire others to greatness. . . .

** This article is one of 101 great articles that were published in 101 Great Ways to Improve Your Life. To get complete details on “101 Great Ways to Improve Your Life”, visit http://www.selfgrowth.com/greatways3.html

Author's Bio: 

Lifestyle expert Doni Luckett is chief executive of Divine Basics, a Colorado-based company that provides products, services, and information for women to connect with themselves and those most important in their lives. A frequent contributor to national media, including television, magazines, radio, and newspapers, Luckett's “Enriched Life” column can be read weekly in the Denver Post Sunday Style section. Each month, millions receive her advice on how to reduce stress, achieve goals, and enrich their lives. Divine Basics’ award-winning products are distributed through thousands of stores in 15 countries and online. Connect with her at http://www.divine-basics.com, or e-mail enrichedlife@divine-basics.com.