What is the ruling on taking a role model who helps me do good?

It is permissible for a Muslim to take a person of uprightness and righteousness as a good example to aid him in obedience. He may emulate him in what he has excelled in, but it is not permissible for him to emulate him in what contradicts the Shari'ah. It should be noted that true emulation is only of the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, and by following his Sunnah, as Allah Almighty says: "There has certainly been for you in the Messenger of Allah an excellent pattern." Emulation of others is contingent upon their following of him, peace and blessings be upon him.