The Hero’s Journey: The Circular Path Step 1: Getting the Call Step 2: Picking up a sidekick and a helper Step 3: Crossing Over Step 4: Trials and Tribulations Step 5: Hitting bottom And getting the reward Step 6: The Return Step 7: Heading Home Step 8: Saving the World Ordinary World Extraordinary World (Supernatural World) Separation Initiation Return

The Call to Adventure: Our hero/heroine is given his/her first notice that everything is about to change. They are about to begin the adventure. The hero/heroine may be reluctant to go. He/she embarks on a perilous journey.

The sidekick and helper volunteer to go along to help and support the hero/heroine. The sidekick can be clumsy, awkward and make mistakes – ultimately his/her goal is to help the hero The helper is usually more than just a friend. The mentor is a teacher – he has more wisdom, knowledge and experience. He gives the hero his/her gifts

Crossing the Threshold signifies that the hero/heroine has committed to the journey. Our hero officially begins his/her journey, leaving the comfort of his/her known world or life. Crosses the gateway that separates the Ordinary World form the Extraordinary World.

Our hero must face trials, ordeals, or situations that bring about the changes These ordeals can threaten the hero/heroine, sidekick and helper. The hero/heroine may receive a magical aid, or powerful tool. The Initiation into the Extraordinary World also tests the hero/heroine’s commitment to the journey.

The hero/heroine is at the lowest possible point, “the nadir.” The hero/heroine undergoes a supreme ordeal: a test of strength, smarts and will. After a struggle with the villain or “shadow,” the journey is over. The hero/heroine gains the reward, “the boon.” The reward comes in many forms: a magical sword, an elixir, or greater knowledge. The hero/heroine has been transformed.

The hero/heroine must finally recommit to completing the journey and accept the road back to the Ordinary World. Like crossing the Threshold, the hero/heroine needs an event that will push him/her back through into the Ordinary World.

When the hero/heroine returns home, they are greatly changed. They have learned much about the world and themselves. The hero/heroine must look inside themselves.

“The boon” or reward the hero/heroine brings home restores the world. Things are returned to normal, and there is a great recognition given to the hero/heroine for his/her efforts.