You’ve probably heard of the Hero’s Journey as it is used in storytelling. If you haven’t, I know you’ve experienced it. Using the hero’s journey in storytelling goes way back to ancient times. Bursting with promise, hope, survival, and triumph, the hero’s journey is an effective storytelling technique.

The hero’s journey is often referred to as an epic and might make you think of a favorite book or movie. Both authors and directors use the hero’s journey to capture and hold their audience’s attention. You can do this too! An email, video, or short chat can contain the hero’s journey and help you inspire your audience.

Here’s how- The hero’s journey splits into three parts:

• The Call to Adventure
• Engagement
• The Return Home

They build enthusiasm, face obstacles, and transform the main character. Let’s dive in.

The Call to Adventure

As the story begins to unfold, the hero is usually minding their own business when they are confronted with a chance for adventure. They are faced with a summoning to something higher and their first impulse is to resist. Eventually, they decide to accept the calling and proceed.

Engagement

During the engagement phase of the story, the subject is faced with problems and challenges that make them want to give up. However, in true hero fashion, they face their fears, suffer losses, and conquer them. Most of the time, people or situations teach and help them become more than they thought they could be. The subject transforms from who they were into who they are becoming.

The Return Home

After facing obstacles and beating the odds, the hero returns home… actually or figuratively… a changed person. And it is obvious to the people who knew them before they began their journey. This shift adds to the credibility of the story and demonstrates how the journey was worth the effort.

You Can be a Hero Too

From the Bible to Star Wars – and almost every epic movie you’ve ever seen – the hero’s journey has been the framework for excellent storytelling. The best part is, you can use this template in your own storytelling and engagement with your audience. Focus on times you, a client, or someone you know has been the hero. Share anecdotes and examples in your social media, emails, and speaking. You will engage your audience and they’ll be energized by your use of the hero’s journey.

Want to know more about Storytelling? Check out our blog article: Using Storytelling to Engage and Grow Your Audience