Would you make a GOOD ROLE MODEL?

United States
February 18, 2007 12:40am CST
My husband and I have thought of this issue, when we discuss the future of children in our lives. We think of this objectively, and it is not just if we are ready to have kids or not, it is really about how we are in general. I feel that a role model, is someone that can be a positive influence on anyone, not just their own children (and vice versa). Sometimes, I hear people tell me that they think I am a good role model, but, I always feel that as a parent, it will be very difficult, because there is more on the line, and it is daily. Can I be a good role model on a daily basis? I don't know anyone that can. I know that this is a tough one, because none of us are perfect, but, perhaps many of you feel that you have positively influenced others, or your children, and that is why you are a role model. Or, are you not such a stellar person, and still need more help from a role model, than you can give?
4 people like this
6 responses
@Sawsen (793)
• United States
18 Feb 07
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1 person likes this
@Sawsen (793)
• United States
18 Feb 07
Sorry it accidently posted on it's own. I'm on a weird computer. It's going nuts! But back to your discussion, I think as a mother, I try to be the best role model that I can be. I don't think that I'm always the best role model, but I think if you try your best then that's what counts. People should always try to be the best they can be. And pass that type of behavior to others.
1 person likes this
@Sawsen (793)
• United States
18 Feb 07
Sorry it accidently posted on it's own. I'm on a weird computer. It's going nuts! But back to your discussion, I think as a mother, I try to be the best role model that I can be. I don't think that I'm always the best role model, but I think if you try your best then that's what counts. People should always try to be the best they can be. And pass that type of behavior to others.
2 people like this
• United States
18 Feb 07
Don't worry about your computer going wacko, we all have that problem too. Anyways, I agree with you, I hope that if I try, I can pass on good behavior and qualities that I have, and that anything bad I have, will not be mirrored. It is tough to instill in others only the good that we possess, but we can always hope, that they will be better than we were, and that we did a good job. That is what I hope.
1 person likes this
@Willowlady (10658)
• United States
18 Feb 07
Not sure, since I could see good in anything done in a bad way. Can be radical in the thoughts that would make the world a better place. Call something lazy when it is. Being blunt and truthful is not a popular thing. I support individuality within the framework of society. That can be tough to do. Perhaps I could be a good role model, however, I don't really see it.
1 person likes this
@Willowlady (10658)
• United States
18 Feb 07
Thank you very much, it is nice to hear how others consider you. It has made my evening. Thanks for responding to me.
1 person likes this
• United States
18 Feb 07
That is a very interesting viewpoint. However, since reading your discussions and responses, I would have to say, that you are a good role model, especially since that is one of your positions here on mylot. Also, you are right in what you say, but, I beleive that goodness and truth are guiding forces, that, in the end, make people better, and even though they are unpopular, they are right.
• United States
28 Feb 07
I am raising my sisters two kids and I am only 19. I have to be the best role modle that I can because their mother wasnt a good one. I think having kids and being a good role modle well I think noone knows until it is time and the kids come. yes people sit around saying if I was a parent I would blah blah blah well once you find out how it is you can not do what you planed it is easier said than done. I must say though it is a joy having those kids in my life and I would not change it for a thing. I think if you want to have kids do it because it feels right. So yes I think I am a good role model I would do anything for those kids.
18 Feb 07
I have two children and feel my partner and I have been good role models. We are in no way perfect, but we have instilled morals and a secure environment for our kids which is of upmost importance. They have both been influenced by their peers but they also have the respect to not follow everything they do. Being a parent has to be one of the hardest jobs and no matter how well you do, when you look back there are always things you wish you had done differently. But as you say, when it is on a daily basis, most of the time I cannot analyse what I am doing as it is always happening. Give your children a routine, boundaries, a sense of pride and build on their self-esteem and you have given them the best start in life. To be resillient into todays society and have social skills are in my opinion the essential tools every child needs today. Good luck when the time comes!!
• United States
18 Feb 07
Thank you, and you are so right. I am glad that you were so successful and did a good job. It always makes me feel better when people can say something positive about the way their kids were raised, and turned out. I hear so much horror stories, or disgrace stories (even within my close circle of friends and family) that it depresses me. Even a friend of mine, that I grew up with, was raised totally wrong, and she is still trying to find herself, and making more and more mistakes as she goes along, but the sad thing is that she had a daughter recently, and is not the best role model for her child. I had not always had the chance to keep in close contact with her, and now that I have moved, it is even harder, but I know that if she had me around more often, she would not have made as many of the mistakes in her life, because she is misguided and looking for friendly advice and guidance. So, that is why I am happy about your situation, and I hope I do the right things also.
@dmillman (2273)
• United States
20 Feb 07
At this point in my life, I wouldn't make a role model for anyone. I can't even be a real me, if that makes sense. I have no job, since September, the friends I have are far away from me so we can't hang out often, if at all, I've been a victim of credit fraud........those are the big things, but I'll stop there. I know that I can't be a good role model to anyone until I like myself, and where I am in life. I don't have children, but I could be a role model to others - in the future. But then again, I don't have a good role model either, so it's all messed up. Sorry if I brought the discussion down, but I had to say it.
• United States
19 Feb 07
I think I am a good role model to my younger brothers and sister. I want them to look up to me. I'm not perfect but I think I have good qualities that they can look up to and follow.