“We must let go of the life we have planned, so as to accept the one that is waiting for us.” – Joseph Campbell
The Shero Philosophy
There is an ancient narrative that spans a multitude of cultures. But, the essence of the narrative is the same: Embarking on a journey. Facing a challenge or crisis. Winning a decisive victory. Being transformed by the battle. And returning home with a prize or gift to benefit the community. Famed mythologist, Joseph Campbell, described this experience of the archetypal hero as the “Hero’s Journey.”
After my fall, I realized I was on my own hero’s journey. But with one critical difference. For me, the gift came not from battling the dragon… but from dancing with it.
Fighting paralysis pushed the gifts out of reach. But when we danced, when I met paralysis with self-possession, curiosity, and respect, the flow of gifts astounded.
This is what’s possible when we change the way we relate to adversity. Our traditional approach – “Beat it or be beaten by it” – limits our outcome. But a relational approach encourages transformation, opening us to splendor.
Based on my own experience, I’ve reimagined Campbell’s construct as a more modern, feminized approach to adversity, one that emphasizes relationship over conquest for the benefit of all. I call it the “Shero’s Journey.”
Shero — noun (sheer – oh)
- A woman (or man) who uses their challenges as a catalyst for transformation in service to themselves and others.
- A person who lives the Shero’s Way™.
The Shero’s Way™
Examining my own Shero’s Journey, I realized I embodied a set of values, beliefs, attitudes and actions that foster transformation. Strung together, these elements form a philosophy, a way of life that can be applied by anyone to challenges both big and small. I call this philosophy the Shero’s Way™.
When we live the Shero’s Way™, we enable a steady flow of gifts in the form of wisdom, insight, vision, guidance, inspiration, motivation, courage, and healing. Those gifts make our experience of life bigger and deeper. They lead to new endeavors, richer relationships, greater confidence and self-worth. They resolve formerly intractable problems and ignite our creativity.
Even when challenges remain or recur, the Shero’s Way™ makes us resilient. Joy, laughter, wonder, and grace become regular additions to the parade of emotions our challenges unleash.
The Shero’s Way™ is bountiful. And it’s waiting for you.