Being a good example is behaving in a positive manner. Leading your life in a good way creates a scenario that others will most likely want to copy. For example, when parents demonstrate leadership, strength, guidance and responsibility, their children will absorb the good behavior.
I was fortunate to grow up in a good family environment. My parents taught me and my sister the importance of doing good and living by a good example. They believed that this standard of living would help us succeed in our future families, careers and life. My parents believed in education, helping those less fortunate, respecting other people's opinions and ideas, being honest, loyal and responsible were of the utmost importance. Now as mature adults, we have instilled what we were taught in our families; my sister practices these good examples with her children and I practice it in my marriage.
When you demonstrate good behavior, you become an inspiration to others. You encourage others to want to do better and push themselves to higher levels. You may not realize it, but living by a good example impacts many people.
Below are six ways to be a good example:
Be a good support system
If your spouse or other family members are in need, lend them a helping hand. You may not have the exact resource they need, but at least show them you care and they can count on you for moral support.
Respect other people's opinions
Regardless if you agree or disagree with someone's opinions, always respect them. Everyone is entitled to share their opinions. You might be surprised at what you can learn. You can learn something new or see a particular situation in a different perceptive.
Show professionalism and maturity
It is OK to have fun and be childlike from time to time. However, there are times when you need to demonstrate maturity. Serious situations, such as family problems, co-worker rivalries or relationship issues must be handled with maturity.
Be honest
Whether it is among your children, family members, spouse or friends, always be honest. I know sometimes we do not want to hurt someone's feelings by revealing the truth, but spreading a lie is worse. You do not want others to lose the trust they have in you.
Never start gossip or rumors
This could be one of the worst things anyone can do. Whether you are close to your family or having trouble within your marriage, never spread rumors or create gossip. This behavior will only cause hardship and more trouble than necessary. The best thing you can do is keep your distance and concentrate on doing positive things.
Demonstrate responsibility
It's important for your children to see you complete your daily duties, be on time, and be accountable for your faults. If you are a teenager, keep your parents informed of your whereabouts. If they ask you to come home at a certain time and you foresee being late, call them. It's only a phone call away. Do not keep them waiting and worried.
Living by a good example is an incredible feeling. Family and friends will attract the positive attitude and begin to spread the good around to others. Setting a good example is contagious.
