By applying the hero’s journey to the business context, we encourage professionals to see their career as a heroic adventure
The Hero’s Journey, conceptualized by Joseph Campbell, describes the archetypal 12-step heroic adventure. Also known as the “monomyth”, it is a narrative model that has inspired countless stories, from films to books to television programs.
In the corporate world this journey can be seen as a metaphor for professional and personal growth. Here we explore how these steps apply to the workplace.
1. Ordinary world: The starting point is the professional environment (where you work). This common world represents the comfort zone before starting any challenge.
two. The call to adventure: Opportunities or challenges that arise daily, inviting professionals to step out of the routine (comfort zone) and seek new goals.
3. Rejecting the call: Fear of the unknown can initially make professionals reluctant to take on the challenge.
4. Meeting with the Mentor: A more experienced leader or colleague can be the source of knowledge, guidance, encouragement and support in meeting the challenge.
5. Crossing the First Threshold: The professional is committed to change, leaving the comfort zone and accepting the challenge.
6. Trials, allies and enemies: When you embark on an adventure, you face obstacles, develop relationships with colleagues who can help on the journey, and identify potential internal challenges.
7. Approach the Secret Cave: The point of greatest tension, where the professional faces the greatest challenge of the journey, often linked to a difficult project or an internal crisis.
8. Calvary: Here comes the biggest challenge, which requires the application of all the skills and learning acquired so far.
9. Reward: After overcoming the challenge, the professional gets some kind of reward, be it recognition, promotion or simply personal growth.
10. The way back: The return to the ordinary world begins, but the professional may still face some remaining challenges.
11. The Hero’s Resurrection: This is the ultimate test, where the professional is tested one last time at a much higher level, demonstrating the transformation and growth achieved.
12. The return: The professional returns to the common world renewed, with new perspectives and knowledge, ready to help and inspire others.
By mapping the hero’s journey to career development, we realize that each stage represents moments of learning and transformation. Challenges become growth opportunities, mentors are key for guidance, and the complete journey reflects not only goal achievement but also personal development and growth.
Therefore, by applying the hero’s journey to the business context, we encourage professionals to see their careers as a heroic adventure, full of opportunities to learn, grow and transform not only themselves, but also the organizations to which they belong.
Danilo Parise is CEO and co-founder ofLudos Pro
gamified learning management platform.
Source: Terra
Rose James is a Gossipify movie and series reviewer known for her in-depth analysis and unique perspective on the latest releases. With a background in film studies, she provides engaging and informative reviews, and keeps readers up to date with industry trends and emerging talents.
