By Dr Wilfred Isak April
LAST week I encouraged each one of you to change the way you think and always view the glass as half-full and not half-empty.
I know it is not easy to always see life this way, especially in difficult times, but I know with a positive attitude it can be done, because as entrepreneurs, parents or educators we are always online. What do I mean by that? We are always role models for someone else, whether we are aware of it or not. This week I have been thinking, what my answer would be if someone asked me what are some of the challenges that face Namibian entrepreneurs today? Common answers such as financing, poor networking skills came up. However, I dwelled deeper into the issue and realised education and role models should be part of that list, because with better education Namibians can change their thinking and also their behaviour. This brings us closer to today’s discussion of whether or not you are a good role model. People, who notice, respect and admire the things you do will model their behaviour on yours. If you are a well renowned entrepreneur in Namibia or sometimes even the most successful person in your family, people are very perceptive and will watch every move you make. For better or worse people always observe and imitate our behaviours and expressions.
As a nation we all are in a position of tremendous power with regard to the development and influencing of the next citizen. There are numerous things we would like to achieve as a nation such as creating and reinventing jobs, rather than waiting to be employed. In order for us to achieve these goals having more role models is important, because it is the primary way that we all can learn the values required to run a business successfully. As a role model it is sometimes not what you say, but what you do that really makes an impact. Businessman/women in Namibia are very good at making commitments, but will you be able to honour and respect them? Remember, I told you in the beginning that you are always online; someone amongst our just over 2 million people is watching you, and will model your behaviour. It is important that you keep your promises if you want to be trusted and seen as someone with integrity. As we are all aware talk is very cheap, but are you able to deliver the goods or services when you are expected to shine. People usually respect those who do what they say. There is a general tendency amongst us to always sit on the fence. It is about time that you get off that fence, take a stand and develop opinions so that we all can learn from one another.
It is only through our opinions that we can learn to be innovative and challenge the status quo. Try to accept when people notice you, you may also become a target for criticism. Finally some critical pointers that could help you to be the best role model you can be. Try and model a life of passion and purpose, where you feel vibrant and alive. Start taking good care of yourself physically, because as an owner of a business you need a lot of energy. Are you able to model financial responsibility with regard to your bills? Or do you overindulge and live above your means. Gossiping, lying, cheating and cursing are liabilities for any business, hence try and do away with them. It is also high time that we start respecting ourselves, and offer the same respect to others. Learn to start asking people for their opinions and ideas in business and listen to what they have to say, as different opinions and ideas can lead to creativity when handled respectfully. I know, certainly it is not possible to predict where we will be and the problems we will be confronted with in the near future, but you got another chance today to be a good role model and model those behaviours you wish to see that could take Namibia to the next level. Our country is in dire need of good role models, please become one.
*Dr. Wilfred Isak April is a University of Namibia (Unam) graduate and holds a PhD- Entrepreneurship (New Zealand). He lectures in Leadership, Organizational Behaviour and Entrepreneurship at Unam.