How to be an inspirational role model to your teenager

November is inspirational role model month. What better time of the year than to share some tips for how to be an inspirational role model to your teenager?

Being a mum to a teenager can be both challenging and rewarding. Your teenage child is going through a phase of rapid growth and change, and they look up to you more than you might think. As their role model, you have the power to positively influence their life and build a strong, trusting relationship. In this blog post, we’ll explore the importance of being a good role model and how it can benefit both you and your teenager. We’ll also provide some tips on how to be an inspirational role model to your teenager.

Why is being a good role model important?

Being a good role model is important to your children at all stages of their life. It shapes how they behave and want to behave. There is a difference between being a good role model and an inspirational role model. Showing our children good behaviours for them to imitate is being a good role model. Being an inspirational role model goes beyond that.

What is an inspirational role model?

Inspiration goes beyond mimicking behaviour. It is more emotive and related to the way we feel. As parents we are in a position to be great inspirational role models to our teenage children. In most cases we already have a good emotional bond with our teenagers. This relationship can have benefits for both of you.

The importance of being an inspirational role model

As a mother, you are a source of guidance and support for your teenager. Your behaviour and values are often reflected in their own. By being a positive role model, you can show them how to navigate the world with integrity, kindness, and responsibility. This, in turn, can lead to your teenager making better decisions in life.

Teens often struggle with self-esteem and self-identity. By modelling self-confidence and self-acceptance, you can help your teenager develop a healthy sense of self-worth. Your support and encouragement can empower them to be their best selves.

Being a good role model can significantly impact your relationship with your teenager. When they see you as an inspirational figure, they are more likely to trust and confide in you. Open communication is vital during teenage years, being a good role model can encourage your child to share their thoughts and concerns with you.

Benefits for your teenager

Strengthening your relationship. Being an inspirational role model can strengthen the emotional connection between you and your teenager. This can create a foundation of trust and understanding, which is vital for a healthy parent-child relationship.
Improved Decision-Making. When your teenager has a strong role model in their life, they are more likely to make informed and thoughtful decisions. This can lead to better academic performance, healthier social relationships, and a more secure future.
Positive Life Lessons. As a role model, you have the opportunity to teach your teenager valuable life lessons that go beyond textbooks. Lessons on empathy, resilience, and the importance of hard work can shape their character and help them face life’s challenges with confidence.

Benefits for you

Thinking about your actions. Life is busy! Sometimes we act without having the luxury of time to think through our actions. Knowing we are aiming to be an inspirational role model to our children means we may think through our decisions more thoroughly.
Reflection. As above, life is busy, as parents it is difficult to find the time to reflect on our actions. Rationalising them and thinking about how that may have come across to your teenager, is a good reflective practice. If something went well, take time to appreciate the decision you made and be proud. If something didn’t go as well, use it as a learning exercise with your teen. Explain you think you could have handled that particular situation better and ask what they would have done. You can learn from each other.
Confidence. As our children get older, the transition to them becoming independent and leaving the nest looms closer. Knowing you have been a good role model preparing them for life outside of the family home is reassuring. You have prepared them well for the next stages in their life.

What behaviours should I model?

Effective Communication: Show your teenager how to communicate openly, honestly, and respectfully. Encourage them to express their thoughts and feelings and be a good listener in return.
Empathy: Demonstrate understanding and empathy towards others, teaching your teenager the importance of compassion and kindness.
Respect: Treat others with respect, regardless of their age, gender, or background. Show your teenager that everyone deserves to be treated with dignity.
Responsibility: Be accountable for your actions and responsibilities. This will teach your teenager the importance of reliability.
Conflict Resolution: Model healthy ways to resolve conflicts. Show them how to address disagreements peacefully and find solutions together.
Self-Care: Prioritise self-care to maintain your physical and mental well-being. This demonstrates the value of self-nurture and self-respect.
Positive Attitude: Maintain a positive outlook even in challenging situations. Optimism can be contagious and help your teenager develop a resilient mindset.
Continuous Learning: Embrace lifelong learning by reading, exploring new hobbies, or pursuing personal development. This encourages your teenager to be curious and strive for self-improvement.
Gratitude: Express appreciation for the little things in life, teaching your teenager the value of gratitude and contentment.

Financial Responsibility: Manage your finances wisely, budgeting, and saving for the future. This helps your teenager understand financial responsibility.
Curiosity and Creativity: Encourage creativity in your daily life, inspiring your teenager to explore their interests and talents.
Adaptability: Embrace change and adapt to new situations, highlighting the flexibility and resilience required in life.
Forgiveness: Demonstrate the ability to forgive and move forward from past grievances, emphasising the importance of emotional healing.
Self-Reflection: Encourage self-reflection and personal growth, showing your teenager that self-awareness and self-improvement are ongoing processes.

By demonstrating these positive behaviours, you can serve as a powerful role model for your teenage children, helping them develop into responsible, compassionate, and well-rounded individuals.

How to be an inspirational role model to your teenager

Show genuine interest in your teenager’s thoughts and feelings. Listen actively without judgement, allowing them to express themselves freely. This can build trust and help them feel understood.

Demonstrate the values and behaviours you want your teenager to adopt. Show respect for others, take responsibility for your actions, and handle challenges with grace. Remember, actions speak louder than words.

You should support your teenager’s hobbies and interests, even if they differ from your own. This shows that you respect their individuality and encourages them to pursue their passions.

FAQ’s

What if my teenager doesn’t seem to respond to my role-modelling efforts?

Your teenager will most likely not want to be like you. 😂 They are still sponges though, even as teenagers, and will be constantly watching and learning. It’s normal for teenagers to sometimes resist their parents’ influence. Be patient and consistent in your efforts. Keep the lines of communication open and continue to be a positive example.

How can I balance being a friend and a role model to my teenager?

While it’s important to maintain a friendly relationship, ensure that you also set boundaries and provide guidance when needed. Striking the right balance is crucial to being an effective role model.

Can I be an inspirational role model even if I have made mistakes in the past?

Absolutely – learning from our mistakes is a great trait for an inspirational role model to have! Your ability to acknowledge and learn from your own past errors can serve as a valuable lesson to your teenager. Being open about your experiences can show them that it’s possible to grow and improve.

In conclusion, being an inspirational role model to your teenager is a valuable gift you can give to them and yourself. This benefits not only your child but also your relationship with them. By setting a positive example, fostering trust, and offering guidance, you can navigate the challenges of the teenage years together and emerge with a strong, loving bond. Remember, the journey of parenthood is an ever-evolving one, and the effort you put in today will shape your teenager’s tomorrow.