National Inspirational Role Models Month is celebrated every November to appreciate the people in our lives who have set a positive example for us. Through their character, accomplishments, and behavior, role models inspire us to be better versions of ourselves. There is no right age to have role models; we can have a role model at any stage in our lives. A good role model at a critical time can drastically change lives and motivate others to grow up to be better people.
History of National Inspirational Role Models Month
The concept of mentoring is widely believed to have originated from Homer’s “Odyssey.” In this epic poem, which dates back around 3,000 years, Odysseus entrusts his young son Telemachus to the care of his Mentor, who is his trusted companion, when he goes to fight in the Trojan War. Odysseus takes decades to come back home during which Mentor nurtures and supports the boy.
However, Mentor from “Odyssey” did not have the characteristics that we would associate with a mentor in our world as Odysseus just described him as an old friend. It was the French author, Francois Fenelon, who is considered responsible for the view we have of a mentor. He created the character of a mentor in his 1699 novel “Les Aventures de Telemaque” and referred to the mentor as a guide and instructor.
Mentoring became a common practice during the Middle Ages for guilds and trade apprenticeships when young people benefited from the patronage of more experienced and established professionals after acquiring technical skills. In the 1970s, business people and researchers started to recognize the vital role of mentors in the development of corporate executives, and mentoring was increasingly used in the workplace to help junior members to progress. A mentor is a role model for a mentee, and in their relationship, the mentor gathers knowledge for the mentee and encourages the mentee to be better.
National Inspirational Role Models Month timeline
The idea of mentoring originates from Homer’s “Odyssey.”
Mentoring becomes a common practice during the Middle Ages for guilds and trade apprenticeships.
French author Francois Fenelon creates the character of a mentor in his 1699 novel “Les Aventures de Telemaque,” and refers to him as a guide and instructor.
Business people and researchers recognize the vital role of mentors in the development of corporate executives.
National Inspirational Role Models Month FAQs
What are the different types of role models?
There are three types of role models — positive role models, reverse role models, and anti-role models.
Why are anti-role models important?
Anti-role models enable us to discover and avoid the biggest obstacles to our success.
Who are most children’s role models?
Most children view their parents and caregivers as their role models.
National Inspirational Role Models Month Activities
Appreciate your role models
Express your gratitude toward those who have helped you grow as a person. Tell your role models that you cherish their presence in your life.
Research about the value of inspirational idols
Read up on the importance of role models and mentors in life. Try to understand why they play a crucial role in our journey.
Spread the message online
Raise awareness about National Inspirational Role Model Month on the internet. Share posts, articles, and videos about people who influence you to do and be better.
5 Interesting Facts About Role Models
A role model inspires
Role models have an incredible passion for their work and life which affects others.
They have a clear set of values
Role models have a defined set of values, and they adhere to them at all times, which makes people admire them.
They support the community
True role models are focused on supporting the community and always try to help others.
They are selfless
Role models are selfless and accept people for who they are even if they are very different from themselves.
They can overcome obstacles
Role models do not bow down in the face of obstacles but are persistent in their quest.
Why We Love National Inspirational Role Models Month
It is a month for appreciation
This month is all about acknowledging the role models in our lives for their continued good work for the community. It values their efforts and the inspiration that they are for all of us.
It pays tribute to all role models
Role models don’t necessarily have to be important public figures. This month celebrates role models from all walks of life.
It promotes a noble way of living
This month encourages us to practice living with compassion and selflessness. It rouses us to seek a life dedicated to noble causes.
National Inspirational Role Models Month dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | November 1 | Friday |
| 2025 | November 1 | Saturday |
| 2026 | November 1 | Sunday |
| 2027 | November 1 | Monday |
| 2028 | November 1 | Wednesday |
Log In With Google