The term role model gets thrown around a lot. Celebrities are usually considered role models, based simply on their status in society. But what does the term really mean and what does it take to be a good role model?

Role models are people others want to imitate; someone who is admired and who others want to be like. A good role model should help you get motivated. They should help you develop the skills and abilities necessary to succeed in your chosen field (sports, arts, business, sciences, politics etc.).

They can be famous or notable people or someone you know from your daily life, like a teacher, coach, parent or friend. Anyone who inspires you to be the best person you can be could be considered a good role model.

It is important to have people to look-up to. They can help you make important decisions that will impact the rest of your life; like whether or not to continue your education or what career path to take.

Role models can help show you how to live. They can help guide you in making good decisions, and can teach you the importance of hard work, self-confidence and how to become a productive member of society. Looking up to a successful person will help make you successful. Seeing how someone else accomplished their goals provides a path for you to do the same.

An example of a good role model could be Mala Yousafzai. She is a 17 year-old activist from Mingora, Pakistan. In 2012 she defied the Taliban by insisting girls be allowed to receive an education. For speaking out for women’s rights and standing up for her beliefs she was shot on her way home from school. She survived and continued her fight. In 2014, she was nominated for a Nobel Peace Prize and won, making her the youngest recipient of the award in history. Mala took a tragic event and turned it into awareness. Her ability to stick to her beliefs in the face of overwhelming obstacles shows a confidence and resilience that is admirable, making her someone to look up to.

Whatever your interests or whoever you choose to be your role model, make sure they have a few of the following traits:

• Confidence
• Leadership
• Respectful
• Knowledgeable
• Empathetic
• Passionate
• Humility
• Charitable
• Moral
• Hardworking

But remember, even though it’s good to have someone to aspire to, it is just as important to be you. Don’t become someone else. You are meant to be your own unique person. Don’t loose that.