Want to know what it is? 

Role models.

Role models are the number one way to positively influence the next generation of female leaders.

Merriam-Webster defines a role model as “a person whose behavior in a particular role is imitated by others.” If we want to help our daughters unlock their potential, and become the women God created them to be, we need to get serious about showing our daughters positive women whose behavior they might imitate.

The women who can positively affect how a girl sees herself and her own potential. They are women who will serve as the evidence that God is alive and at work in each one of our stories, including their own.

Our girls need to see and experience the stories of other women both intimately and in action. They need to see a diverse group of women who live authentically, seek God consistently, and step boldly into the opportunities He lays before them. They need to see women saying Yes to those opportunities, not because they have all the answers or can see the path ahead, but because it’s what God is telling them to do. There is power in allowing girls to be influenced by positive role models, both around the world and in their local communities.

Here are three quick and easy tips for creating opportunities for your daughter to learn from role models:

1. Plan an in-home event for your daughter and some friends. Invite a role model to come speak to the group about her life, experiences, struggles, and faith.
2. Take your daughter to see the work of a positive role model who shares her interests, hobbies, or talents.
3. Ask someone you respect and admire if they might be willing to invest their time and meet with your daughter for a season. Non-parental mentorship can be life-changing for kids!

The women who show up for God, who aren’t afraid to be vulnerable, who don’t let their own fear stand in the way of what God can do with only a little bit of faith. Those are the women our daughters need in their lines of sight. They are the ones whose examples will ignite a new generation of young women who will do the work God has for them.

“Children are great imitators. So give them something great to imitate.”

Question: When it comes to finding role models for your daughter, what is your single biggest challenge? Let me know in the comments below!

More helpful links:

If you’re looking to build a network of positive role models around your daughter, do not miss our FREE podcast series, Heroes For Her. We highlight real women whose stories will inspire you to guide conversations with your girl about beauty, identity, and purpose.

Need resources to point your daughter to positive role models in Scripture? Check out our Bible Belles HEARD book series. You can find books, devotionals, activities and more by clicking here.

"role model." Merriam-Webster.com. Merriam-Webster, 2018. Web. 28 Aug 2018.