General News
23 August, 2026
Call the doctor: The value of being a good example
What does it mean to be a good example of yourself? Dr Felix explores how the way we live, speak and act can quietly influence the people around us.
This fortnight I thought I would write about one of my favourite words, and one of the key principles I use to guide my life.
Four years ago, while meditating at my favourite place to do so, I had this sudden realisation that for my life one age old notion could best guide my choices.
In amongst a chaotic and complex world, where it can be hard to know what to do, all one really needs to live a good and worthy life is to try and be a good example of themselves.
Humans are at a fundamental level creatures that copy each other, we are very much monkey-see-monkey-do animals.
There is even a name for the parts of our brain responsible for this called mirror neurons.
I think it is fair to say that my character, mannerisms, opinions, values, everything I am; is simply an amalgamation of other people I've met and known.
We grow essentially by absorbing other people.
However there are three nuances to consider.
First we don't just copy the good in people, we can learn bad habits too, especially if we are young or vulnerable. Like it or not, you will rub off on people.
Second, we copy each other in everything we do, even, or perhaps especially so, with the subtle and small things.
If you trudge down the street looking all tough and mean, more people in your town will do the same.
Likewise if you confidently stroll with a friendly smile, you will be greeted with more friendly smiles.
Third, it is not important how successful we are compared to others, it only matters that we are successful within ourselves.
We all have flaws and baggage, and luck and privilege, and it is within that context that we are examples of ourselves.
Do we make the most of what we have been given?
Are we kind to ourselves and others despite the challenges we face?
It is how we rise to the trials of life that determine if we will have a positive effect on those around us.
Being a good example is not about other people making the same decisions or having the same opinions as you, it is about demonstrating human values and spirit through healthy words and actions.
The means by which one can be proud of the life they live is by being a good example of themselves.
That said, looking up to others, and wanting to copy them, or emulate them is still really important for our individual growth.
Role models help us aspire to be and do better.
It is only natural to want what other people have and do, and this is a good thing.
This, when done humbly and honourably, is not jealousy, but emulousness.
To be emulous means to be in a state of wanting to emulate someone.
Humans cannot help wanting to copy other people, it is built into our brains.
Our inherent tendency to emulousness is what makes our species thrive.
So next time you see someone you want to emulate, don't cower into bitter self-entitled jealousy; stride boldly towards emulousness, and ask yourself “what can I learn?”, “in what ways can I grow?”.
Better yet, ask “how can I live as an example to others?”, “how might I be exemplary?”