Being Role Models
We all know that parents have a significant impact on their children’s development.
But what researchers have seen for decades is that what the parents DO is much more impactful than what the parents SAY.
“Don’t smoke, kid.” said Mom. Then she took a long drag from her cigarette. “These things’ll kill ya.”
The most likely outcome for a situation like this is that, decades later, the now-adult “kid” will be a long-term smoker who says, “These things are gonna kill me” to himself every time he lights up.
The takeaway for parents, team leaders, and basically anyone who has influence over others is that we are role models. If we want a positive behavior from our people, we need to walk the walk ourselves.
Be the kind of person you want your children to be. Be the kind of professional you want your team members to be. Your people are always watching, so show them; don’t just tell them.
(Photo by OC Gonzalez on Unsplash)