Has it ever occurred to you that you may be the only positive influence on someone else’s life? Have you ever stopped to think that you may be the only example of excellence and integrity to a classmate, neighbor or friend? As strange as it may seem, people are always watching you, even if you are not aware of it. And the more you do what’s right, the more your peers will look to you as a positive role model. They may never tell you. They may never admit it to themselves. They may even make fun of you for being the type of person who tries to do what is right, but that doesn’t mean that they do not respect you or look up to you.

When you have a vision of something greater for your life and work towards that vision you will become a positive role model for others whether you want to or not. When you value, believe in and respect yourself, people will notice that there’s something different about you. And chances are you will not fit in with everyone else. That’s a good thing, because it means that you are unique and you were given the special task of being a beacon of light for others.

Being a role model isn’t always easy. There will be times when you will find yourself at odds with your friends. You’ll even worry about fitting in. But don’t worry. You’re not supposed to fit in, because being a role model means that you stand out for others to see.

As a teen you’ll often hear about the importance of having role models and there’s no questions that this is important. But what’s also important is, being a positive role model. Who says that you can’t be the positive role model?

There is something special about knowing that you are trying to set a good example and that you care enough to be the very best. Whether or not you are popular has nothing to do with being a role model. A role model is someone who chooses to put forth their best effort everyday and when they make a mistake they pick themselves up and try again. If this sounds like you, then I say that you are a positive role model. Keep up the good work.

This article is excerpted from Cassandra Mack's book, "Young, Gifted and Doing It: 52 Power Moves for Teens."

Cassandra Mack
http://www.strategiesforempoweredliving.com