Role Models

Sometimes the person who provides you with exceptional inspiration doesn't even know your name. Role models are usually professionals whom we look up to—we follow their careers and we admire their success. We might even long to be just like them.

Aspiring journalists often cite superstars Barbara Walters, Diane Sawyer, and Katie Couric as their role models. These three ladies of network news pave the way for generations of talent and they inspire legions of women both in the television industry and out. They do this by being the best in their business and by giving speeches and interviews that are accessed by their fans. Similarly, by becoming the first woman in space, Sally Ride's strides led other women to dream big and to reach for the stars in their own chosen profession.

You can learn a lot from women you don't know personally. Study their paths and research their backgrounds to find clues to their success. As you advance in your career, remember that your advice and experiences are valuable to others. Be willing to return the favor and lend a hand, because it's the best way to build meaningful personal and professional relationships.