During November, we ran workshops discussing this topic which led to so many interesting and positive stories of how role models helped us, knowingly or not.
I really resonated with this topic because it was how I managed to gain focus in my own life during a difficult time. In my previous career, I had progressed in my role from a carpenter to management to senior management which at a glance was great. But … the work and diligence that went into that career progression left me neglecting many areas of my life.
Like many men that I've been in conversation with, work and family often take priority with no time for anything else (for some its only work). My support network, my hobbies and interests, my own self care had taken a back seat. I realised I had neglected many of my relationships and mostly spent time with my work colleagues who were not like the people I wanted to be like, they say you are the average of the 5 people you spend the most time with. These were not my people.
Something had to change. I looked to find role models, who did I want to be more like? Who did I want to learn from? Who did I want to be inspired by?
I was 'gifted' 🤨 with a 3hr daily commute and I love listening to podcasts, mostly around personal development and stories. This was the perfect opportunity to shape how I was being influenced. Listening to podcasts was the first step in building and finding the right support network.
Finding support in this way is referred to as a parasocial relationship. These types of relationships are often one sided; you experience feelings of knowing the person or role model and because of their position i.e. podcast host you can experience illusions of reciprocity. These types of relationships are on the increase because of platforms like Instagram, TikTok and YouTube that create a direct connection making you feel like you are closer to that person.
What this new focus gave me was the curiosity and intrigue to find new communities to engage with, find new hobbies that interested me and new ways of thinking. Following up with the new hobbies then led to building a new support network and strengthening relationships I still had. I also inadvertently gained a huge interest in personal development which steered me to my career change.
To many of us feeling alone can feel like a huge problem to solve but making a small change like listening to a Podcast every morning can change your life for the better. They’ll never know it, but people like Tim Ferriss, Steven Dubner and Angela Duckworth have enriched my life and given me a sense of purpose again.
Our session on role models during November was so popular we have now created a workshop for 2025:
Lead by Example: Becoming and Finding Role Models
Description - Role models aren’t just for childhood—they’re essential at every stage of life. In this workshop, we’ll explore how role models influence our decisions, help us grow, and inspire us to achieve more. You’ll learn how to identify the right role models, build meaningful connections, and even become a role model yourself, creating a ripple effect of positivity and empowerment in the workplace and beyond.
If you would like us to deliver this workshop in your organisation, reach out to us today (mention this blog and we will also give you 10% off our usual price).
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