Life can be complex, navigating it can sometimes be disheartening. We find our way through these complexities with the relationships we build along the way. So what is better for us, a mentor figure/ Role model or our more trusted friends who know the intimate details we don’t necessarily share with the more authoritarian figures who guide us along out journey. 

A good place to start is to dissect the different relationships. 

A best friend; a person whom we have connected on a higher level. Someone we have chosen to let our guard down around. The person with the power to destroy you, but trusted not to. These are people who have joined your journey, who are with you, who have struggled with you. These are people who can inspire you to let go of what is holding you back.

A role model; someone who’s story resonates with you. A person you can look up to and aspire to follow their path. Someone who can guide you, even without your whole story. Someone who’s struggle you understand and empathize with, which draws you to learn from their story. 

Who is more important to helping you navigate the particular struggle you’re going through. The truth is, there is no right answer. While a role model might have firsthand knowledge and experience, is it best for you to follow a path someone else has walked? A best friend, someone with a deep emotional connection, someone who might not use their logic to guide you but emotion. Will they hesitate to tell you something for fear of past pain? Will they hype you up, even though failure is a likely outcome? Will a role model who lacks that emotional connection to you guide you to do what is “recommended” or do what is best for you and your path? 

The fact is; everyone’s story is different. That difference is what makes us an individual. Maybe the best approach is to hear all sides, all inputs and do the best to make that information work for both you, your situation and the outcome you truly desire.