Your brand archetype is like a compass, guiding how you on how to authentically connect with clients. Whether you’re the adventurous Explorer, the daring Maverick, or the courageous Hero, your brand values and brand voice can build trust and deepen relationships. Here’s how to harness any archetype to create real connection: Lead with Authenticity : Connection starts with being unapologetically you.  Every archetype has a unique strength—lean into it. The Sage  shares wisdom to inspire trust, while the Entertainer (or Jester)  breaks down walls with laughter and enjoyment. Whatever your archetype, let it shine through in your words, tone, and actions. Clients will feel the difference. Know Their Journey : Connection grows when your message resonates with your audience’s needs and dreams. The Caregiver  might emphasize support and security, saying, “We’ll take care of everything so you don’t have to worry,” while the Creator  offers inspiration: “Let’s design something extraordinary together.” Meet clients where they are and guide them toward where they want to go. Create Moments of Meaning : People remember how you make them feel.  Use your archetype’s magic to craft memorable client experiences. The Innocent  creates nostalgia and warmth, while the Maverick  sparks excitement with bold moves. Every interaction is a chance to strengthen the bond—make it count. Your archetype isn’t just a personality or a stereotype; it’s a bridge to meaningful relationships organically. Build connection by staying true to your voice and making every client feel like they’ve found exactly what they were searching for. If you are curious what your brand archetype may be, you can reflect and collect inspiration using the archetype quiz found HERE.

In our last post, we talked about The Hero's Journey. It deserves a deeper dive along with some practical take aways that you can use on your own path. As a short recap, many of the world’s best-loved books and movies follow a universal storytelling structure known as the Hero's Journey. This powerful narrative arc appears in everything from Disney classics like Moana , and Frozen , to epic literary adventures like The Lord of the Rings  and Harry Potter , guiding the hero through stages of transformation and growth. Originally described by mythologist Joseph Campbell in The Hero with a Thousand Faces , the Hero’s Journey explores how individuals overcome obstacles, discover their inner strengths, and ultimately achieve greatness. In business ownership, the Hero’s Journey offers a valuable blueprint for success, capturing the ups and downs, challenges, and breakthroughs that come with building a business. Here’s how each stage applies to entrepreneurs, with actionable tips for staying motivated, engaging clients, and building a thriving business. Starting a Business (Ideation Phase) Ordinary World  – Reflect on what isn’t fulfilling about your current work life. Journal what values, skills, or ideas feel missing, and what kind of business would change that. Call to Adventure  – Identify your “why” for starting a business. Is it freedom, impact, or a personal passion? Clarity here strengthens your vision. Refusal of the Call  – Acknowledge your fears openly. Write them down, and then challenge each with realistic solutions or small steps toward bravery. Meeting the Mentor  – Seek out a business mentor or coach. Join local networking groups, attend workshops, or ask a successful entrepreneur for advice. Crossing the Threshold  – Take your first concrete step. Register your business name, set up a website, or reach out to potential clients to formalize your commitment. Growing a Business = Survival and Stability Phase Tests, Allies, and Enemies  – Identify your allies (partners, advisors) and your challenges (financial, market fit). Schedule regular check-ins to refine strategies as new obstacles arise. Approach to the Inmost Cave  – Identify the greatest challenge you’re facing right now, and brainstorm 3 potential solutions. Lean on allies or mentors for feedback. Ordeal  – When business feels like it’s make-or-break, pause. Prioritize mental resilience by setting aside regular time for self-care and reflecting on what you’ve achieved so far. Selling a Business = Success and Significance Phase Reward (Seizing the Sword)  – Celebrate major milestones and acknowledge your growth. Recognize the skills or insights you’ve gained that will serve you beyond business. The Road Back  – Plan for continuity by building a strong team or setting up systems that enable the business to thrive without you. Resurrection  – Consider your long-term goals. Do you want to sell the business, pass it on, or reshape your role? Align these with your values and strengths. Return with the Elixir  – Reflect on your journey and find ways to share your knowledge. Mentor other entrepreneurs, write about your experience, or give back to your community. Just as you navigate the Hero’s Journey in building your business, remember that each of your clients is on their own path, facing challenges, doubts, and milestones. Some may be refusing the call, uncertain about taking the next step or reaching for something new. Others may be ready but struggling to cross that threshold. They may be seeking allies to help them achieve their goals. The question is: will you step up as their guide, offering guidance, encouragement, and the wisdom to keep them moving forward? Or will you freeze, afraid that your guidance may be mistaken as "sales-ey"? By aligning with them on their journey, you not only elevate your business but also create lasting, meaningful relationships that drive growth, trust, and transformation for both you and your clients. By following these steps, business owners can navigate the Hero’s Journey with a sense of purpose, resilience, and lasting impact with their clients. Each stage builds upon the last, transforming not only the business but also the entrepreneur who leads it. Embrace each step of the journey with an open mind, a courageous heart, and the knowledge that this adventure is your legacy. 🌟 Additional resources: Who’s starring in your  brand’s story? Brand Archetypes can help you define the voice, tone, and personality that set you apart. Take our quiz today to uncover your brand’s unique archetypes and start connecting with your audience in a way that’s authentic, memorable, and powerful! Or, if you need help staying focused on a daily basis and want the support of expert led coworking sessions (virtually), check out our Battle Buddy program.

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.