From the Ordinary World to Magic Elixir: Building Business with Courage (part 1 of 2)

The Hero’s Journey is a classic narrative arc that underpins countless stories. Joseph Campbell, a renowned mythologist, developed the Hero's Journey framework as a universal storytelling model that maps out the transformative journey of heroes in myths and stories across cultures.

Let's consider well known Disney stories as an example. By following the hero through stages of growth, challenge, and self-discovery, this storytelling structure reveals powerful lessons on courage, resilience, and inner strength.

Consider Moana and Frozen II. The main characters bring this journey to life as they embark on transformative adventures, overcoming obstacles, discovering hidden truths, and ultimately emerging as more powerful, fulfilled versions of themselves. Let’s dive into how each stage of the Hero’s Journey shapes Moana’s and Elsa’s paths, creating journeys that captivate and inspire viewers of all ages. In part two of this blog post, we'll explore how this relates to your business and go over actionable steps you can take each step of the way.

1. Ordinary World

The hero is living a normal life before the adventure begins.

• Moana: Moana lives on the island of Motunui, preparing to one day lead her people as their chief.

• Frozen 2: Elsa lives in the kingdom of Arendelle, enjoying a peaceful life with Anna and the people of her realm.

2. Call to Adventure

Something disrupts the hero’s ordinary world and calls them to action.

• Moana: Moana feels drawn to the ocean and later learns that her people need her to restore the heart of Te Fiti to save their island.

• Frozen 2: Elsa hears a mysterious voice calling her, awakening her curiosity and compelling her to follow it.

3. Refusal of the Call

The hero hesitates, doubting their ability to take on the journey.

• Moana: She initially struggles with the responsibility of leading her people and is torn between her duty and her calling.

• Frozen 2: Elsa worries that following the voice could lead her away from her family and the safety of Arendelle.

4. Meeting the Mentor

The hero encounters a guide who offers advice or assistance.

• Moana: Her grandmother Tala encourages her to follow her heart and embrace her connection to the ocean.

• Frozen 2: Elsa doesn’t have a clearly defined mentor (although I would argue that Olaf plays the role of the Sage through humor and wit), but she does find encouragement from Anna and guidance from memories of her parents.

5. Crossing the Threshold

The hero leaves the familiar world and steps into the unknown.

• Moana: Moana sets sail on her own to find Maui and restore the heart of Te Fiti.

• Frozen 2: Elsa, along with Anna and their team of supporters, ventures into the Enchanted Forest, crossing into a mysterious and magical world.

6. Tests, Allies, and Enemies

The hero faces trials, makes allies, and confronts enemies in the new world.

• Moana: Moana befriends Maui, battles the Kakamora pirates, and overcomes various oceanic challenges.

• Frozen 2: Elsa and Anna encounter the spirits of the forest, meets the Northuldra tribe, and tries to understand the connection between Arendelle and the Enchanted Forest.

7. Approach to the Inmost Cave

The hero faces their biggest fear or prepares to tackle the central challenge.

• Moana: Moana approaches Te Fiti’s island, knowing that Te Kā, the fiery guardian, stands in her way.

• Frozen 2: Elsa journeys further into the unknown to find the source of the voice, while Anna realizes she must face the truth about her family’s past.

8. Ordeal

The hero confronts their greatest challenge and faces possible defeat.

• Moana: She battles Te Kā and initially feels defeated when Maui abandons her.

• Frozen 2: Elsa reaches Ahtohallan and learns the painful truth that her grandfather caused the rift between Arendelle and Northuldra; she is then frozen by the overwhelming truth.

9. Reward (Seizing the Sword)

The hero earns a reward or gains new insight after overcoming their challenge.

• Moana: Moana discovers her own strength and realizes she can complete the mission alone; she also learns that Te Kā is actually Te Fiti.

• Frozen 2: When Elsa reaches Ahtohallan, she discovers that she is the Fifth Spirit, the essential bridge between humanity and the elemental spirits. This revelation shows her that her powers are not just unique but are meant to unite and protect both her world and the enchanted forces of nature. Also, Anna realizes that breaking the dam is the only way to save both Arendelle and the forest, embodying Elsa's wisdom and bravery.

10. The Road Back

The hero begins their journey back, now transformed by their experiences.

• Moana: She restores the heart of Te Fiti, and balance returns to the ocean and her island.

• Frozen 2: Anna leads the effort to destroy the dam, while Elsa returns just in time to prevent the flood from destroying Arendelle.

11. Resurrection

The hero faces a final test where they prove their transformation and emerge renewed.

• Moana: She returns home as a wiser, braver leader who understands both her role and her people’s heritage.

• Frozen 2: Elsa, having fully embraced her role as the Fifth Spirit, is at peace with her identity, and Anna is crowned Queen of Arendelle.

12. Return with the Elixir

The hero returns to their ordinary world, bringing back knowledge or power that benefits others.

• Moana: She brings a new sense of purpose to her people, who once again embrace voyaging as part of their heritage.

• Frozen 2: Elsa lives in harmony with the Northuldra and the Enchanted Forest, while Anna rules Arendelle, both kingdoms united and thriving.

In both Moana and Frozen 2, the hero’s journey is a blend of self-discovery and bravery. Each protagonist’s transformation ultimately strengthens not just them but their entire community. These stories show us that true leadership often means venturing into the unknown, embracing challenges, and growing in ways that empower those around us.

Just as Moana and Elsa step into their power for the greater good, entrepreneurs and leaders can find inspiration in their journeys to create positive change and impact.

As business owners, you’re on your own Hero’s Journey—but so are your clients. When it comes to marketing and growing your business, remember that it’s not about you being the hero. It's about helping your clients become the heroes of their own stories, with you as their trusted guide. This allows you to offer solutions and support without the need for overly promotional tactics, uncomfortable gestures, or the never-ending quest to "get your name out there".

If you are curious what practical action items you can take to deploy the Hero's Journey in your business, be sure to read Part Two where we will share a list of steps you can take to create clarity and confidence in any stage of your business lifecycle.

Additional Thoughts: Every great story has a cast of unforgettable characters—and your brand is no different! Are you curious which Brand Archetypes can elevate your message, connect with your audience, and make your business unforgettable? Let's dive in and find out who’s in your brand’s cast of characters! Take our quick quiz to reveal your brand’s unique archetypes and start building a story that resonates and connects in an authentic and organic way with your audience. Without feeling "sales-ey"! Click HERE to take the quiz.