Think back on your life, those moments when you really felt like you were learning, growing, and becoming a better person. Remember those times when you felt like something inside you shifted in a significant way.
Think of your life (so far) as a story, and if you're up for it, draw it as a timeline. Plot those moments that stand out - the ones that changed you, taught you something important, and made you who you are. Reflect on why these moments were significant, what changed within you, and what lessons you learned.
Think about the people who were there with you along the way. There were likely those who challenged you, those who supported you, and those who helped pave the path for what came next.
Now, let's talk about the tough stuff. Most of those significant moments were probably accompanied by difficulties or even trauma. Maybe it was standing up for yourself, experiencing loss, overcoming fear, or facing a major life change like a breakup or job loss. Your successes, the things that really fulfilled you, likely didn't come easy. They often arose from challenges that life presented or that you chose for yourself.
"The Hero with a Thousand Faces" by Joseph Campbell is a fascinating book that talks about the hero's journey, a common theme found in myths and stories throughout history. It's essentially about a hero going on an adventure, facing a crisis, winning a victory, and returning home transformed.
You probably already know some of these hero stories from popular culture like Star Wars, The Matrix or Lord of the Rings (insert your favourite film canon here). The hero's journey looks something like this:
You might recognize elements of the hero's journey in your own life. It's like a metaphor for how you learn and grow. You step out of your comfort zone into change and the unknown. You face challenges, and sometimes hit a point where you think, "What the f%&k have I done?" (the belly of the whale).
But you push through, often with the help of guides or mentors, and come out stronger on the other side.
Think about your own journey right now
Where are you on the hero's journey?
Who or what could support you as you progress?
What challenges do you need to face?
What are you learning from this journey?
How are you growing as a person?
Sometimes events that seem to happen to you are actually happening for you, guiding you along your own hero's journey.
Matt helps leaders and teams develop mindset and resourcefulness so they can relate productively, communicate effectively, and navigate challenge and change with confidence.
Through coaching and training, he empowers leaders with better choices and more options for progress—building better leadership from the inside out.
Curious what that could look like for you or your organisation? Let’s talk.