Role models are wonderful things, yet potentially damaging. Every once and a while, I begin to compare myself and despair at the chasm-like disparities. But usually, I try and imitate and that can actually have brilliant consequences. Observing one's technique and attitude, then emulating them is only a stone's throw away from the real thing.
I really look up to a certain family member. They're brave as hell, funny, kind, outgoing, popular, intelligent, competent, fit, good-looking, tough-skinned and one of those folks that go along for the ride and always come out on top.
Then there is an array of fantastic, talented actors, like Eddie Redmayne and Ben Mendelsohn. They genuinely push me to be better and do better. It may sound dumb, even cheap, and I know that I'm only seeing one side, but they make me try harder. If that's dumb then I despair at perception.
... I think that covers it, really.