Several things influence us in our everyday lives. Whether it be our friends, the environment, or the entertainment we consume. One such example is the people we idolize. Singers, famous athletes, actors, and internet personalities affect us whether we realize it or not. Have you ever been working out and decided to put on a song or a playlist to keep you going or you turn on your TV and put on a movie before you go to sleep just so you can have some background noise? These things we do have an impact on some of the actions we take in our everyday lives sometimes in small ways and other times in way bigger ways than we realize.

People with a much higher social status can often be inspiring. But what happens when we know about these people before they get all the jewelry and big fashionable brands? The way we see them grow can bring inspiration to many. “Tupac Shakur inspired me to use my greatest attribute, which is my mind. When he was alive lots of people didn’t like him. Where he came from, his story was inspiring. His mother was a Black Panther who fought a court case without a lawyer, and if you look at how intelligent he is, it inspires you to like him. His style evolved as he grew. He started with streetwear, then got into design (FUBU, Gucci, Versace,). He traveled a lot and went to places like Miami and Vegas. He read a lot. I want to have the time to read a lot too,” said Mr. Corey Simples, Econ and Personal Finance Teacher.

Another way we may look up to our idols is how their stories sometimes hit close to home, further building the connection we may feel towards that celebrity. “Brent Faiyaz has some very relatable music. Listening to it helps me get through life. He’s been to LA too; I grew up there and when I travel I’m going to visit again,” said Wally Gwgh, a freshman.

Most times people who aspire to be in the “spotlight scene” feel that the heights that they want to reach are almost entirely unrealistic. Most big names aren’t born into that life, some have even started from a less-than-ideal lifestyle and worked their way up throughout the years.

Many stars have qualities that are just so uplifting that it makes you want to be better as a person. “Zendaya is a very good role model, and she’s an excellent actor. She’s even appeared in children’s shows, and is very protective of her image with kids. When she goes somewhere really fancy she’s dressed up and has a nice attire fashioned by designer brands, I would dress like her,” said Cesia Ruiz Rodriguez, a junior.

Speaking of people so inspiring it makes you want to do great things, some people have accomplished physical feats against the odds. Where most people would have given up it takes mere stories of these superstars to get you back on your feet after a rough fall. Everyone has had a time where they feel like they just can’t continue, can do something, can’t bring themselves to try after failing, but there are people out there who are famous for continuing to get back up after constantly being slammed to the ground. “I like how hard-working Simone Biles is; she’s definitely an underdog. She’s broken her ribs, shattered her toe, and partially tore her calf at least twice and still has 37 career Olympic and world championships medals,” said Ciara Kraft, a junior.

Although celebrity culture can sometimes be seen as negative, it is important to remember that many famous people can serve as strong examples and can be sources of inspiration.

Which celebrity most inspires YOU? Tell us in the comments!