Sir Isaac Newton is well known to us all in optics. A mathematician, physicist, astronomer, alchemist, theologian, author and bane of the first year at university for many an optics student. Undoubtedly, he was a pivotal figure in the philosophical revolution known as the Age of Enlightenment and is credited with this famous quote: ‘If I have seen further, it is by standing on the shoulders of giants.’
To be enlightened can be defined as having or showing a rational, modern and well-informed outlook or giving someone greater knowledge and understanding about a subject or situation. In the modern world, we are bombarded with misinformation from various sources, including numerous ‘here today, gone tomorrow’ gurus. It is important for us, as a profession and individuals, to choose our sources carefully in terms of evidence base but also those whom we choose to emulate as role models and those we may work with as mentors.
I recall being given the book Bad Science by Ben Goldacre in the late 2000s. That really opened my eyes to being more circumspect when presented with new findings. I think the College of Optometrists does a good job in presenting its evidence-based approach and one of my passions (as a confirmed geek) is to use the billions of data points in our clinical outcomes reporting at Specsavers to better understand and evidence clinician behaviour and care. Looking at evidence, the scale of it and who funded the research for claims is key.
Going back to the original point, role models and mentors can be incredibly important figures in our lives who inspire and guide us. A role model is someone who serves as an example for others to emulate, while a mentor is more of a hands-on guide who offers advice and support. Both have a crucial part to play in helping individuals develop and achieve their goals.
A role model can be someone who has achieved success in a particular field, or someone who possesses certain qualities and values that others admire. Role models can be real people, such as family members, friends, famous figures or fictional characters.
Having multiple role models and mentors can be beneficial because it allows individuals to gain different perspectives and learn from a variety of sources. For example, someone interested in pursuing a career in the sciences may look up to a famous researcher as a role model, while also learning from a mentor who is currently working in the field.
I’m sure, as you are reading this, you are thinking about the various role models and mentors you have had in your life, both personal and professional. They drew your interest and inspired you for a reason. I am inspired by Marsha de Cordova, MP for Battersea, and the passion she brings in her call for a national eye strategy in England. Oh, and, by the way, she is registered blind.
As well as a number of role models, I’ve been blessed to have many people inspire me and give their time to mentor me over the years. In fact, after a hiatus, I am working with a new mentor at the moment. You really are never too old. I’ve also been humbled by some people saying I was a role model for them.
So, taking all that into consideration, would you class yourself as a good role model to someone entering the profession? I’m sure the answer is ‘yes’. But even then, what could you do to make yourself an even better one?
Do you mentor anyone? Could you? Surely, your experience and expertise are worth sharing and benefiting others? This service would extend to patients and have a much wider impact in a professional sense.
Being a mentor can benefit both the mentor and the mentee in a variety of ways. For the mentor, it can be a rewarding experience to share their knowledge and experience with someone who is starting out in their field. It can also help the mentor develop their leadership and teaching skills. For the mentee, a mentor can provide guidance, support, and a role model to emulate as they navigate their career. Additionally, a mentor can provide access to networks and opportunities that may not be available to the mentee otherwise.
Overall, mentoring can be a powerful tool for personal and professional development for both the mentor and mentee. Additionally, having role models and mentors can help to build self-esteem and confidence and can provide a sense of validation and encouragement.
Sometimes, it can be hard to begin a conversation with someone on this basis, so why not share this article with someone, be it a potential mentee or mentor, and take that first step together. Stand on the shoulders of giants or make sure you are one yourself.
- Paul Morris is director of professional advancement at Specsavers UK & Ireland.