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from The How to Think like Leonardo DaVinci Workbook by Michael J. Gelb, pg 40.

"One of the most efficient ways to learn from mistakes is to let someone else make them for you. It is wonderful to have positive role models, but you can also learn a tremendous amount by studying “anti-role models. (The author writes) For example, I learned most of what I know about coaching and teaching from my worst coaches and teachers. I remember sitting in class while one teacher droned on endlessly; another never listened when someone asked a question; then there was the coach who was fond of humiliating his players. They taught me what not to do. I am also grateful to other anti-role models who, by demonstrating exactly what not to do, have helped me avoid getting into debt and having a nervous breakdown. The tricky thing about this exercise is that sometimes your greatest anti-role models also happen to be positive role models in some areas. Your task, of course, is to accurately discriminate between what you want to emulate and what you want to avoid".

For this discussion, list three role models and the qualities they demonstrate that you’d like to develop. What can you do today to better embody these qualities?

Then list three anti-role models and qualities that you’d like to avoid. How can you learn from their mistakes?

Answer 1

Role models and the qualities they demonstrate:

1. Mahatma Gandhi:

- Leadership by example

- Clarity on goals and purpose

- Ability to adapt to change based on situations

Gandhi has taught me countless lessons through his journey of life. I would like to be naturally charismatic like him in today's age. He was not a leader by birth but someone who adopted to various situations to become a leader, I would like to adopt some of his great qualities and try to become a better leader over time as well. I would like to have a rock-solid value system from which all my activities would flow and I would like to make major changes at every turn of my life, just like him. Would like to lead from the front and be an example to my teammates and do what I talk.

2. Nelson Mandela

- Determination and grit

- Self control and discipline

- Visionary

Nelson Mandela was a visionary leader, an extraordinary man who overcame great humiliations and suffering while emerging as a renowned politician and activist. He always believed in forgiving and building the future. I would like to take to bring all of his qualities to today's world like self-discipline, determination and a great level of self-control. I would like to use this in a team environment which would help me in understanding what I really need from the team and what I can provide to the team while managing them. I would like to be as respectful and equal in my judgement.

3. Martin Luther King Junior

- Self confidence

- Persistence

- Dream big, deliver bigger

All people are not born to lead, but they can still have a positive affect within their organization.There are good leaders and there are bad leaders, but the key is to be the best leader you can be for your followers. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was a phenomenal leader and some of the traits that he possessed were intelligence, self-confidence, and determination. I would like to bring all of those qualities in today's world. If I am confident in my actions, I will gain the trust of my team mates. His oratory skills are something that are really important in today's world to inspire others just like his speech "I have a dream" which is even remembered today as a revolutionary speech.

Anti-role models and their negative qualities:

1. Elon Musk:

Tesla is one of the most revolutionary product by Elon Musk and his time blocking method is a reliable way for effectively managing your time. However, I did not like some of Elon Musk's erratic behavior he demonstrated in 2018, like his social media rants. This has taught me how not to act on social media, as well as how to not treat journalists, investors and employees.

2. Tiger Woods:

A golfing phenomenon almost from the cradle, he inspired countless young people with his multicultural background and effortless athleticism. He was my sports hero as well. But his character and values hit rock bottom when he was found guilty of cheating his wife. I would like to believe now that all sports stars are human after all and they can make errors as well. But what that has taught me is that when you become a brand/model/inspiration, you need to be all the more careful or you would just be admired for your work and not for the person who you are which is more important for me.