MODELLING EXCELLENCE

Objective

The purpose of this session is to help workers understand the significance of modelling excellence as a proven strategy for achieving high performance and productivity in the workplace. By recognising modelling as one of the shortest routes to optimal success, employees will learn how to identify, emulate, and build on positive behaviours that contribute to individual growth, workplace excellence, and ultimately, nation-building.

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Introduction

We all model, knowingly or unknowingly. From the earliest stages of life, we learn by observing others. For example:

• A child learns to walk by watching adults.
• A child learns to talk by mimicking speech patterns.
• Peer-to-peer learning influences behaviour, values, and character.
• Architectural models serve as a blueprint for construction projects.

In the workplace, the same principle applies. Employees model behaviours, skills, and attitudes from their peers, leaders, and organisational culture. But this can go both ways—positive behaviours lead to excellence, while negative behaviours can breed mediocrity.

Discussion Starter:
What personality models do you observe in your workplace? List examples of individuals or traits that stand out as models of performance or influence:
a. ___________________________________________________
b. __________________________________________________
c. ___________________________________________________
d. __________________________________________________
e. ___________________________________________________

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Content

What is Modelling?
Modelling is the act of replicating or creating a version of something, whether it is a skill, behaviour, or system. Just as organisations create prototypes before mass production, individuals can replicate models of excellence to optimise their personal and professional growth.

In a workplace:

• A visionary leader can inspire a culture of innovation and productivity.
• A diligent employee’s habits can influence the attitudes of an entire team.
• Conversely, a single negative influence—such as dishonesty or poor work ethic—can spread like a virus and disrupt organisational harmony.

Key Insight:
Modelling happens both consciously and unconsciously. If you want to excel, you must consciously choose positive models to emulate while rejecting negative influences.

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Good Models vs Bad Models

Exercise:
Identify some of the good models in your organisation. Who inspires you to be better, and what makes them stand out?
a. ___________________________________________________
b. __________________________________________________
c. ___________________________________________________
d. __________________________________________________
e. ___________________________________________________

Now, identify bad models or behaviours that hinder excellence in your organisation. Be honest but tactful.
a. ___________________________________________________
b. __________________________________________________
c. ___________________________________________________
d. __________________________________________________
e. ___________________________________________________

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Steps to Effective Modelling

To model excellence, follow these steps:

1. Identify Desirable Traits: Write down the specific characteristics or behaviours you admire and want to adopt. For example: punctuality, problem-solving, or effective communication.
2. Find a Role Model: Look for individuals in your organisation (or beyond) who embody these traits.
3. Observe and Learn: Pay attention to their actions, decisions, and habits. What do they do daily that sets them apart?
4. Emulate: Start incorporating those behaviours into your routine. For instance, if they are always prepared, start preparing ahead of meetings or tasks.
5. Stay Consistent: Excellence comes from repeated action. Continuously practice what you’ve learnt until it becomes a habit.

Golden Rule:
When you do what successful people do, you’re more likely to experience their success. Surround yourself with people who inspire and challenge you to grow.

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Practical Activities

Activity 1: Personal Reflection
Name one or two individuals (inside or outside your workplace) who could serve as your role models:

• Name: ____________________________________________
  Trait(s): ___________________________________________
• Name: ____________________________________________
  Trait(s): ___________________________________________

Activity 2: Team Modelling Exercise

1. Form small groups.
2. Each group identifies a positive behaviour or skill prevalent in the team.
3. Create a step-by-step plan to incorporate that behaviour or skill into team routines.

Activity 3: Model Replication Simulation

• Pair up with a colleague and exchange insights on one trait they admire about you and one trait you admire about them.
• Commit to modelling each other’s admired trait for one week and provide feedback at the end.

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Key Takeaways

• Successful modelling is intentional. Choose what and whom to model wisely.
• Positive behaviours are contagious. Be a model of excellence to inspire others.
• Success is replicable—if someone else can achieve it, so can you.
• Modelling doesn’t stop with individual growth; it fosters workplace excellence and builds the foundation for nation-building.

When employees consciously model excellence, they not only improve productivity and workplace harmony but also contribute to a culture of progress that echoes in society.

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Challenge for the Week:
Find one new model to learn from, one bad habit to replace, and one colleague to inspire.