Are You Fighting for Your Health, or Fighting Against Yourself?
Why Embracing the Hero’s Journey Can Shift Your Mindset and Change Everything
When I first stumbled upon the Hero’s Journey, it struck a chord deep in my soul. Here was a framework used in epic storytelling—from Harry Potter to Star Wars—that also mirrors the real-life journeys we take every day. Whether you’re struggling with chronic health issues, emotional eating, or the weight of stress, you are the hero in your story. Today, I want to show you how this journey can help you see yourself in a new light—strong, capable, and ready to take on whatever life throws your way.
1. The Ordinary World: Recognizing Your Starting Point
We all start somewhere. Maybe you’re juggling family responsibilities, career demands, and health struggles that leave you feeling drained. Perhaps you’re staring at a closet full of clothes you can’t wear anymore or avoiding the mirror altogether. You feel stuck, like the challenges are too great to overcome.
This is your ordinary world. It’s where your journey begins. Remember, every hero starts here. Think about Frodo in The Lord of the Rings, a humble hobbit with no idea of the extraordinary adventure ahead. Like him, you may not yet see the greatness within you—but it’s there, waiting to be uncovered.
2. The Call to Adventure: That Spark of Change
Every story has a turning point, a moment that shakes things up. Maybe your doctor gave you unsettling test results, or perhaps you’re simply tired of feeling tired. The moment you realize something needs to change—that’s your call to adventure.
Picture this: You’re sitting at the dinner table, scrolling through your phone, and come across an inspiring story of someone who turned their health around. For a second, you think, Could that be me? That little voice calling you to dream bigger? That’s your adventure calling.
3. Refusal of the Call: Facing Fear
But change is scary, isn’t it? You think, I’ve tried before and failed, or I don’t have time. That resistance you feel? It’s normal. Every hero faces it. Dorothy didn’t want to leave Kansas, and Neo hesitated before taking the red pill. Fear whispers, “Stay safe. Stay comfortable.”
Here’s the thing: staying where you are feels easier, but it keeps you from discovering what you’re capable of. The question is, will you listen to fear—or to hope?
4. Meeting the Mentor: Finding Guidance
Every hero has a guide. But here’s the twist: your mentor might not be me, your doctor, or even a health expert. Your mentor could be a friend, a family member, or someone whose story inspires you. Maybe it’s your partner who believes in you more than you believe in yourself. Or maybe it’s your child who looks up to you as a role model.
Your mentor isn’t here to fight your battles for you. They’re here to remind you that you’re capable of more than you realize.
5. Crossing the Threshold: The First Step
Every journey begins with a single step. Maybe you sign up for a fitness class, swap your soda for water, or decide to go for a 10-minute walk. The first step doesn’t have to be perfect—it just has to happen.
Imagine stepping outside for that first walk. The air feels fresh, and though your legs might feel heavy, there’s a sense of momentum. That’s the moment you cross the threshold from where you were to where you’re going.
6. The Trials and Challenges: Facing Obstacles
Let’s be real: this is the tough part. There will be moments of doubt, days when you want to give up. The craving for comfort food after a stressful day or the temptation to skip your workout will test your resolve.
But here’s the truth: obstacles aren’t here to stop you—they’re here to strengthen you. Just like in every great story, the trials teach the hero their greatest lessons. Each time you overcome a challenge, you prove to yourself that you’re stronger than you thought.
7. The Transformation: Seeing Results
This is where the magic happens. You start noticing changes—not just in your body, but in your mindset. You feel lighter, more energetic, and proud of the progress you’ve made. The transformation isn’t just physical; it’s emotional and mental, too.
Think of it like climbing a mountain. At first, you’re focused on the steep path ahead. But when you pause and look back, you realize how far you’ve come. That’s the power of transformation—it opens your eyes to what’s possible.
8. The Reward: Embracing the New You
This is your moment to shine. You’ve worked hard, and now you’re reaping the rewards. Maybe you can run around with your kids without getting winded, or you’re fitting into clothes you haven’t worn in years. Perhaps the biggest reward is simply waking up with a sense of purpose and joy.
This isn’t the end of your journey—it’s the beginning of a new chapter, one where you feel empowered and in control of your health.
9. The Road Back: Staying the Course
Even heroes face the temptation to fall back into old patterns. Life gets busy, stress creeps in, and it’s easy to lose sight of your goals. But here’s the secret: you’ve already proven you can do hard things. Staying consistent isn’t about never stumbling—it’s about getting back up when you do.
Think about what keeps you grounded. Is it a daily walk? Prepping healthy meals for the week? Or maybe it’s journaling about your progress. Whatever it is, let it be your anchor.
10. The Return with the Elixir: Sharing Your Story
Your journey doesn’t end with your own transformation. Just like every hero, you now have a gift to share. When you tell others about your experience, you inspire them to embark on their own journeys. You become the light that helps someone else find their way.
Imagine a friend hearing your story and thinking, If they can do it, so can I. Your journey has ripple effects far beyond what you’ll ever know.
You Are the Hero of Your Story
The Hero’s Journey isn’t just a story—it’s a roadmap for transformation. No matter where you are right now, you have the power to step into your potential. You don’t need to be perfect, fearless, or extraordinary. You just need to take the first step.
So, what’s your next move? Because the hero of your story is waiting. And trust me—you’re stronger than you think.