ShiFt Happens: Role Models Inspire, But Success Requires Action

Role models. The mere phrase evokes images of people we admire and aspire to emulate—athletes, business founders, authors, creators. And it’s not just about their accolades or talents; it’s about the impact they have on how we think, act, and grow. But in a world that’s shifting faster than ever, our perspective on role models needs a shift of its own.

The Power of Role Models in Growth

Let’s face it: watching someone achieve greatness can spark something powerful within us. A role model’s achievements can make us believe, If they can do it, why can’t I? This is true whether you’re eyeing the resilience of an entrepreneur, the discipline of an elite athlete, or the creativity of an artist.

As adults, we’re no strangers to this process. We find mentors and leaders who inspire us and nudge us forward. It’s equally vital for children, whose impressionable minds are constantly seeking examples of how to navigate the world. If you’re a parent, consider this: your children aren’t just watching sports stars or online influencers—they’re watching you, your friends, and your circle. Are you setting an example worth following?

The Delusion of Perfection

However, here’s where the shift in mindset comes in: role models are not perfect.

Too often, we put people on pedestals, convinced that their lives are free from the struggles we face. We see their success but not the sleepless nights, failures, and self-doubt that paved their way. This illusion of perfection can be damaging. When we’re captivated by someone’s talent or achievements, it becomes easy to ignore their flaws, rationalize bad behavior, or believe they’ve had it easier than us. That’s where we go wrong.

"Admire their work ethic, not their highlight reel," says entrepreneur and author Brené Brown. Her words serve as a crucial reminder: no one has it all figured out, and success is rarely as smooth as it seems.

If you’re emulating someone, it’s essential to keep this perspective. And if you’re serving as a role model—to your team, your peers, or your children—remember, it’s okay to show your humanity. Transparency about the challenges you face can teach far more than a facade of perfection ever could.

Success Requires Action

While role models can light the path, they can’t walk it for you. It’s one thing to admire someone’s discipline, creativity, or resilience; it’s another to put in the effort yourself. No amount of inspiration can replace hard work.

Think about it: you can watch countless videos of your favorite athlete training, but unless you pick up the weights or hit the track, their success remains theirs. The same applies to business founders, authors, or anyone you admire. Success demands action—your action.

This is a vital lesson to instill in children as well. Encourage them to look up to their heroes, but remind them that their dreams require their own dedication and grit. Role models provide the map, but it’s up to us to make the journey.

The Accountability Factor

There’s another key to this mindset shift: accountability. It’s not okay to idolize someone so deeply that their harmful actions or poor choices get a free pass. Whether it’s a public figure or someone within your own circle, admiration should never override integrity. It’s perfectly fine to acknowledge their talent while holding them accountable for actions that don’t align with the values you hold dear.

The Reciprocal Nature of Role Models

Here’s a thought that might surprise you: your role models might be looking back at you, too. Mentorship and inspiration aren’t one-way streets. Just as you’re inspired by others, the way you navigate your own challenges might be inspiring someone else. That’s why authenticity matters so much. By showing up as your true, flawed, but persevering self, you’re not just growing—you’re helping others grow, too.

Why This Matters for Children

Children are sponges. They’re watching how you treat others, how you handle stress, and how you bounce back from setbacks. They’re also watching who you choose to keep close and who you hold up as an example. Are your role models reinforcing the values you want to instill in your kids?

And while it’s vital for children to see greatness and dream big, it’s equally crucial for them to understand that success doesn’t mean flawlessness. Talk openly about the hard work and perseverance behind someone’s achievements. Highlight how they overcame obstacles. This fosters resilience and a growth mindset in your children, helping them face their own challenges with courage and determination.

Embrace the Shift

Role models are essential to our personal and professional growth. They push us to imagine what’s possible and inspire us to be better. But the real power lies in shifting our mindset—from idolizing perfection to respecting effort, from blind admiration to balanced accountability. Whether you’re learning from someone or setting an example yourself, the best role models are those who remind us that greatness is a journey, not a destination.

So go ahead, look up to those who inspire you. Just don’t forget: they’re human, just like you. And someone, somewhere, might be looking up to you, too.

Shift through it,

Mel