The Hero's Journey: Could This Be the Entrepreneurial Roadmap?

Have you ever wondered if you're truly ready for the startup world? This question echoes through the entrepreneurial ecosystem, and I think it boils down to this: 'I have this idea; am I willing to go all in? Do I have what it takes? What lies ahead?' As with any endeavor, we often ask, 'What's the cost?' It's a question worth considering.

I started to think about the first time I heard the narrative around Joseph Campbell's notion of the Hero's journey. Campbell first coined the term "hero's journey" in 1949 in his comparative mythology book "The Hero with a Thousand Faces." Campbell outlined the hero's journey in three primary stages and seventeen detailed steps in this book. It has since been modified into various versions of the above picture. I couldn't help but think of how this almost serves as a roadmap for any great adventure, whether our own life, a book, or a movie. George Lucas used these concepts in the writing of Star Wars. Campbell would argue that these themes are universal across all cultures, maybe even those in galaxies far, far away.

As you read through the list below, know that the journey ahead will be challenging but also incredibly rewarding for those who embrace the struggle. Just like the first noble truth of Buddhism states that suffering is inevitable in life, the hero's journey reminds us that trials and obstacles are part of any worthwhile endeavor. Understanding and accepting this reality upfront better equips us to navigate the difficulties ahead. The path may be arduous, but the insights, growth, and sense of fulfillment you'll gain will make it all worthwhile. I am different; the person who started this journey is much different than the one who stands here now. Not attached to any single accomplishment; I am proud of this person and who I have become.??

The Call to Adventure

Just as the hero gets a call to head into the unknown, a startup founder has a burning idea or vision that compels them to leave behind the comfort and security of a stable job or career to pursue an uncertain entrepreneurial path.

Refusal of the Call

Founders must overcome self-doubt, fear of failure, and resistance from others as they consider entering the risky world of entrepreneurship. Be careful here; sometimes, those closest to you will be the roadblock.

Supernatural Aid

Mentors, investors, co-founders, and supportive friends/family provide not just encouragement, but also tangible assistance to help the founder begin their journey. This support system is crucial in the early stages of entrepreneurship. Remember, nothing great was ever done alone!

The Road of Trials

This is the most challenging part—securing funding, building an MVP, finding product-market fit, scaling operations, hiring the right team, and overcoming countless other obstacles through perseverance and resilience. This will make you stretch yourself beyond what you currently thought possible.?

The Approach to the Inmost Cave

After numerous trials, the founder faces their biggest challenge yet—one that will make or break the startup. This could be a pivotal funding round, a significant product launch, an expansion into a new market, etc. When you are in this cave, remember this roadmap…you knew this was coming.

The Ordeal

The founder endures intense struggles and self-doubt and feels pushed to their limits, questioning if they have what it takes to succeed. This is the make-or-break moment. It is okay to doubt yourself; we all do so at some point. Remember, people who ultimately succeed are not usually the smartest, strongest, or fastest; they are the ones who consistently do the work!

The Reward

If the founder survives the ordeal, they achieve a significant milestone, such as securing a big funding round, getting acquired, going public, or simply achieving product-market fit and profitability. This is not just a business achievement but a testament to their resilience, determination, and personal growth. The reward is the person you become.

The Road Back

Even after a major win, the journey is far from over. The founder must navigate new challenges, such as managing growth, staying competitive, maintaining company culture, and avoiding complacency.

Resurrection

The founder's perseverance, learnings, and hard-won wisdom from their journey allow them to transform into a more capable and seasoned leader.

Return with the Elixir

Having experienced the crucible of startup life, the founder returns with valuable insights, lessons, and a refined vision/product that can positively impact others—be it customers, aspiring entrepreneurs, or society at large.?