Happiness often hides in unexpected places. Sometimes, it’s in a smile from a stranger, a comforting routine, or a small victory in our day. But there’s another source of quiet joy we don’t always notice, having someone to look up to. I’ve been very lucky to have a number of role models and leaders in my life. From work to various sports I’ve participated in, I’ve always looked for someone to be inspired by.
What Makes a Role Model Special?
A role model doesn’t have to be a celebrity or someone changing the world on a grand stage. In fact, some of the most powerful role models are the everyday people around us. It could be a teacher who believed in us when we doubted ourselves. A friend who shows kindness no matter what. A family member who carries resilience and grace through difficult times.
What makes them special isn’t just what they do, it’s how they do it. Their words or actions can quietly inspire us to try a little harder, to believe in ourselves, or to keep going even when things feel tough
The Hidden Joy of Looking Up to Someone
Role models remind us of what’s possible. They show us paths we might not have seen and open doors in our imagination. Sometimes, just knowing they overcame challenges makes us believe we can, too. That spark of belief can bring unexpected happiness. It’s the comfort of feeling guided, the hope of knowing we’re not alone, and the encouragement to keep moving forward.
Collecting Little Pieces of Inspiration
One of the most beautiful things about role models is that we don’t need to find one “perfect” person to look up to. Life gives us the chance to collect inspiration from many different people.
- We might learn courage from one person.
- Patience from another.
- Joy from someone else entirely.
Each of these influences becomes a thread in the fabric of who we are becoming. Piece by piece, we create our own unique path forward—shaped by those we admire, but always true to ourselves.
Where I’ve found role models and what they’ve taught me
Throughout my life, there have been a few role models who really taught me certain things. Although I won’t be naming them directly, I will share what I’ve learnt
- Being nice costs nothing. Try and help everyone as you’d like to be helped
- Asking for help is not a sign of weakness; often, it’s a sign of strength
- Life is too short to be worrying about what others think about you.
- Being active is a mindset; small steps will lead to bigger ones.
- Setting boundaries is healthy and can usually lead to more respect
There are so many other points I’ve learnt – some I don’t even realise I’m sure. I’m so grateful for everyone who has taught me something.
Becoming a Role Model Without Realising It
The hidden happiness of role models works both ways. Just as we look up to others, there may be people quietly looking up to us. We don’t always see it, but our actions – big or small – can leave an imprint on someone else’s heart (I touched on this ripple effect in the first-ever blog on Hidden Happiness called the Ripple Effect). A smile, a word of encouragement, the way we show up in difficult times. These little moments can inspire someone in ways we may never know. That reminder brings its own joy: that each of us has the power to light the way for someone else, even without realising it.
Conclusion
Looking up to someone isn’t about comparison. It isn’t about feeling like we need to be “just like them.” Instead, it’s about learning and remembering that happiness often comes from connection.
Let us know in the comments what’s something you’ve learnt from a role model?