OK, I admit it: I’m a bit of a groupie, a nerd who loves Star Wars.
Not just for some escapist entertainment, but because there’s special relevance for musicians.
Like virtually every narrative dear to us—from the Wizard of Oz to the Magic Flute—the Star Wars story line is a classic example of the “hero’s journey,” the narrative pattern of a central character overcoming a set of trials and ultimately finding redemption.
Author Joseph Campbell identified this narrative pattern as the hero’s journey. He outlined the stages: how the hero is “called” for the quest, finds a mentor, and undertakes a series of challenges that test her or his every capacity. By overcoming these challenges, the hero finds new understanding and a new life.
The hero’s journey is a useful metaphor. To make real change in your career and life, you need to be the hero of your own journey.
What does that entail?
If you are the hero, then you aren’t waiting for someone else to make your career happen, for someone else to choose you and transform your circumstances. Being your own hero is about taking responsibility and taking action.
To understand more about the hero’s journey and how it relates to your own, listen to the inspiring podcast from this week’s TED Radio Hour on this very topic, the hero’s journey.
This week: To help you prepare for your own hero’s journey, shore up your confidence and resolve by taking stock of your current situation.
Start by counting your blessings. What are you thankful for? Keep in mind that challenges are often blessings in disguise: they are the fuel that gets us to make needed changes.
Dream Big, Plan Smart, Live Well
