5 Qualities of Real Heroes
In a world that worships self, having heroes feels juvenile. Emulating others seems insulting to people who sing, “I’ve got to be me.”
Some of the most satisfying moments in my life happen when I am sincerely emulating someone I admire.
I have many heroes because I’m easily impressed.
My heroes:
It sounds frivolous but I admire people on TV shows like America’s Got Talent and American Idol. Anyone who works hard, strives for excellence, and let’s themselves be seen is heroic.
People that work hard to accomplish meaningful goals encourage me to reach high.
Some dead people energize me, Ray Charles, John Adams, and Hellen Keller, for example.
All the people I work with inspire and teach me.
5 qualities of real heroes:
- Show up with an open hand.
- Work hard to contribute.
- Be authentic. Fakers drive me nuts.
- Be dependable. You don’t have to have loads of talent. Just show up and get something done.
- Let yourself be seen. Vulnerability is magnificent.
Low standards:
People I admire are frail. Learn to see the good in imperfect people or you will admire few and despise many.
You might think I should have higher standards. The power of being easily impressed is openness to learning and encouragement.
Life without heroes is small.
While you are being yourself, be like others, too. We should all be authentic. I’m learning to be me AND to be like the people I admire.
Challenge:
Think of heroes as examples, not saviors.
Life is bigger and richer when heroes live in you.
A person with heroes is more likely to become a hero.
A person with a hero knows how to celebrate the success of others. You can’t envy someone and be easily impressed with them.
Being easily impressed expands life.
Still curious:
The Real Reason Rudolph Flew from Outcast to Hero is Not About Red Noses
Something to avoid: Savior Complex: Definition and Common Examples
Great post. My heroes are examples of greatness. They weren’t / aren’t perfect. Many have flaws. I’m trying to imitate the things that made them great, and avoid their mistakes. Sometimes it also makes me a little more sympathetic to their faults as well.
Dan in writing my third book I have included a chapter on my heroes. My criteria is: people I truly admire for something they have done, exclude family and work mentors, and someone I actually personally knew. One started a charter school for minorities; one is a nun who is helping rebuild a church and mission in a tough area, etc. It is a great exercise to think of your own heroes!
Brad
Be dependable! This will take you further than intelligence. People believe I’m a lot smarter than I actually am because I produce good results. I believe my results are due to nothing other than the dedication and effort I put into the project.
Heroes are weird. Once you move outside Classical mythology, heroes tend to be really ordinary! Right up until the point where they aren’t. You can’t tell a hero ahead of time!