We all need somebody to emulate, someone to push us to our next level and demand the best from us…a role model.
Think about three people who fascinate you and study them, synthesize their best efforts, add your own twists and use them to march forward with passion and purpose. Having visible examples of the extraordinary heights human beings are able to reach can inspire us to make the most of our lives.
One of my personal role models is Leonardo da Vinci. He was born out of wedlock during a time when being illegitimate was debilitating because in order to climb the socio-economic ladder, one had to come from a distinguished family. However, he was determined to overcome his common origins. He had a code that he lived by, “if circumstances hold you back, always find another way to achieve your goals.” So, Leonardo became an apprentice in Verrocchio’s workshop and got to learn from one of the best. Legend has it that after Verrocchio saw one of his art pieces of an angel; he never painted again because his student had eclipsed his capacities.
Leonardo believed it is only the mediocre apprentice that does not surpass his teacher. He was not just an amazing painter, but had talents in every area – he was a sculptor, architect, musician, mathematician, engineer, inventor, anatomist, cartographer, writer, and much more. As somebody with a voracious appetite for learning, I aspire to be as much of a generalist as he was because I believe the best innovations happen when you can intersect disparate ideas from a variety of fields.
Role models are sources of inspiration to propel you to greatness. The aim is not to become a carbon copy of your role model, instead, you should assess his/her value and then find that point of departure where you take your unique approach.
Q: Who is your role model? Comment and share your thoughts with us, we would love to hear from you!
Quote of the day: “Being a role model is the most powerful form of educating… too often fathers neglect it because they get so caught up in making a living they forget to make a life.” -John Wooden, Championship Coach
Who are your role models?