Role Models: The Unsung Heroes of Real Life

The heroes of my life have not been superstars or very famous. Instead, they have been people I've met in real life, often through work. For example, they've proven to me that a woman can, of course, have a very successful career in business. They've also demonstrated, through their behavior, that as a business leader, you can be both very successful and very kind.

We should put more spotlight on real-life role models!

One of the reasons I wanted to work as CEO for Oriflame is that I know the company is filled with inspiring people from over 60 countries around the world. If you want to understand how business works – how it is run by real people (not just by a handful of tech billionaires) – then our Oriflame Brand Partners are shining examples. These are people who work to build a better future for themselves, their families, and their communities. They often start without any seed money, inheritances, or business networks. Yet, they break through difficulties and succeed.

Whether they are in China or Sweden, Poland or Mexico – they have a lot to teach us all about real business.

One of our much-admired partners is Craig White, who lives in the UK. His energy levels are fabulous! If you present him with a problem, he will always find a solution, and if you feel a bit low or tired, a few words from Craig will help you bounce right back up!

Here is what he has to say on the subject of role models:

“In my early years, I never really appreciated the role models around me. I think this is true for many of us! I was really privileged as a kid; I had hard-working, ambitious, and driven parents. Both my parents had an entrepreneurial heart, having run successful businesses – I heard stories of how they met in Spain, running businesses in the busy seasons for tourists.

My parents introduced me to the world of Direct Selling, an environment of dreamers, hard workers, and genuinely empowered people. This gave me access to a world of successful people; I attended events and listened… One of the biggest role models for me was a guy named Rob. I loved the way he treated others, his positive energy, and his ambition to make a difference. Well, he changed my life, and alongside becoming a great friend, there were two big things he did for me:

First, he said, ‘Craig, stop chasing the money; chase personal growth, and the money will chase you.’

Secondly, Rob recommended a book to me. I hadn't read a book since leaving school. But so strong is the power of a role model, that I read that book cover to cover – in fact, I studied it. Now, all these years later, I am the author of three books.

I am convinced that:

• We carry a lot of power when we understand and believe in the daily impact we have on other people.
• We have a responsibility to dream, to learn more, become more, and give more – creating an environment of positive influence.”

I am curious to hear – who have your role models been? How can we encourage others, and ourselves, to act as role models in day-to-day business?

In future articles, I will be looking forward to introducing you to some other Oriflame Brand Partners – they teach me something every day at work, and I want to spread that inspiration!